Imagine spending the morning hunting for bargains at a giant flea market, grabbing something delicious for lunch, watching a live circus performance, and then seeing real Florida alligators up close.
Now imagine doing all of that in one place!
Welcome to International Market World in Auburndale, Florida, a unique Central Florida destination that combines a massive flea market, fresh farmers market, food vendors, and free weekend entertainment.
Located between Orlando and Tampa, this sprawling shopping attraction offers much more than your typical flea market experience.
With hundreds of vendors, circus performances, live alligator shows, and unexpected treasures around every corner, it's a Florida destination worth adding to your bucket list.
What Is International Market World?
International Market World is a flea and farmers market located in Auburndale, Florida, in Polk County.
The market dates back to 1981 and occupies approximately 30 acres along U.S. Highway 92.
Today, it offers a combination of shopping, food, entertainment, and seasonal events that attracts visitors from throughout Central Florida.
The market advertises a community of more than 1,200 vendors, although approximately 300 vendors participate in a typical week.
Unlike traditional shopping malls, International Market World features a constantly changing selection of independent sellers.
Some specialize in everyday merchandise, while others offer collectibles, unique gifts, fresh produce, and unusual finds.
And with free circus and alligator shows scheduled every weekend, shopping is only part of the attraction.
Watch Free Live Circus Shows
One of the most surprising things about International Market World is that it has its own circus entertainment.
Every Saturday and Sunday, visitors can enjoy two scheduled family-friendly circus performances.
The shows take place in different entertainment areas inside the market.
Regular Weekend Circus Schedule:
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12 PM — Gator Theater in the Big Yellow Building
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1 PM — Carousel Theater at the I-Building
Admission: Free
The circus performances give families a fun break from shopping and make the market especially appealing for visitors with children.
You can spend the morning browsing vendor booths, grab a snack, and then head to one of the theaters for the show.
Because performances and schedules can occasionally change, it's a good idea to check the market's official website before your visit.
See Real Alligators at the Free Gator Show
As if having a circus at a flea market weren't unusual enough, International Market World also features live alligator entertainment.
Every Saturday and Sunday, visitors can attend the free Gator Show.
During the presentation, guests learn interesting information about Florida alligators and get an opportunity to see these impressive reptiles up close.
The market also advertises opportunities to explore its gator exhibits, take photographs with a live alligator, and participate in feeding experiences after the show.
Ask staff about any restrictions, supervision requirements, or additional charges for optional experiences.
Regular Weekend Gator Show Schedule:
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Saturday: 2 PM
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Sunday: 2 PM
Location: Gator Theater in the Big Yellow Building
Show Admission: Free
For families who enjoy animal encounters and unusual attractions, this is one of the biggest reasons to visit.
Always follow the animal handler's instructions and maintain a safe distance unless specifically directed otherwise.
Explore Hundreds of Flea Market Vendors
Shopping is at the heart of International Market World.
With numerous indoor and covered shopping areas, the market offers a wide variety of merchandise.
Depending on which vendors are participating, you might discover:
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Clothing and Accessories
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Jewelry and Handbags
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Toys and Games
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Electronics and Accessories
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Tools and Household Supplies
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Home Decorations
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Collectibles and Memorabilia
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Gifts and Souvenirs
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Beauty and Personal Care Products
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Vintage and Secondhand Merchandise
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Specialty Goods
The variety is part of what makes flea market shopping so entertaining.
You might arrive looking for one particular item and leave with something completely unexpected.
Whether you enjoy bargain hunting, browsing collectibles, or simply exploring independent shops, there's plenty to keep you busy.
Shop the Fresh Farmers Market
Another major attraction is the farmers market.
International Market World is known for its fresh produce vendors, making it a popular shopping destination for fruits and vegetables.
Depending on the season and vendor availability, you may find:
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Fresh Fruits
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Seasonal Vegetables
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Locally Grown Produce
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Herbs and Specialty Ingredients
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Other Farmers Market Products
It's a wonderful place to browse colorful produce displays and discover ingredients for meals at home.
Because merchandise changes with the season, every visit may offer something different.
If you're planning to purchase produce, consider bringing reusable shopping bags or a cooler for your drive home.
Grab Something Delicious to Eat
Exploring a 30-acre market can work up an appetite.
Fortunately, International Market World has a variety of food vendors and casual dining options throughout the property.
Depending on the weekend, visitors can find meals, snacks, and refreshments while shopping.
Rather than leaving the market for lunch, you can take a break, enjoy something to eat, and then continue exploring.
Food offerings depend on the participating vendors, so individual menus and availability may change.
Enjoy Weekend Karaoke at Double Dragon Restaurant
International Market World also offers live karaoke entertainment.
Visitors can stop by Double Dragon Restaurant on Saturdays and Sundays to enjoy Karaoke with Carol.
Regular Weekend Karaoke Hours:
Saturday: 11 AM–5 PM
Sunday: 11 AM–5 PM
Whether you enjoy singing or simply listening to other performers, karaoke adds another entertaining experience to the market.
It's one more reason this destination feels different from an ordinary flea market.
Special Events Throughout the Year
In addition to its regular weekend entertainment, International Market World hosts special events and community gatherings.
Past and scheduled events have included cultural celebrations, musical performances, seasonal activities, health expos, and the Spirit of the Buffalo Pow Wow.
These events may feature additional vendors, performances, demonstrations, or activities.
The market also maintains an events calendar with information about upcoming attractions.
If you're planning a visit, check whether any special events are taking place during your preferred weekend.
You might discover something beyond the regular circus and alligator shows.
Why Families Love International Market World
International Market World offers a combination of activities that can appeal to different ages.
Adults can browse the flea market, shop for fresh produce, and look for bargains.
Children may especially enjoy the circus and alligator presentations.
Families can take breaks for food and refreshments without leaving the property.
And because the regular circus and gator shows are advertised as free, you can enjoy some of the entertainment without purchasing an additional show ticket.
Shopping, meals, and optional activities may still involve additional expenses.
For travelers searching for unusual family-friendly things to do in Central Florida, the market offers an experience that combines several attractions in one location.
Tips for Visiting International Market World
A little planning can help you make the most of your visit.
Visit on Saturday or Sunday. These are the best days if you want to experience the regularly scheduled circus, alligator show, and karaoke.
Arrive in the morning. This gives you time to browse vendors before the afternoon entertainment begins.
Wear comfortable shoes. The market covers a large area, so expect plenty of walking.
Bring some cash. Individual vendors may have different payment policies.
Carry reusable shopping bags. They're especially helpful if you're purchasing produce or multiple items.
Plan around the show schedule. The noon and 1 PM circus performances are followed by the 2 PM alligator show.
Check the weather. Some shopping areas are covered, but you'll still be moving between buildings and outdoor spaces.
Review the events calendar. Special events may affect crowds, parking, or entertainment schedules.
Allow several hours. Between shopping, eating, and watching performances, there's plenty to fill a morning and afternoon.
Plan Your Visit to International Market World
Destination: International Market World Flea & Farmers Market
Location: Auburndale, Florida
Address: 1052 US Highway 92 West, Auburndale, FL 33823
Phone: (863) 665-0062
Official Website: https://internationalmarketworld.com/
Regular Shopping Hours:
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Friday: 8 AM–3 PM
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Saturday: 8 AM–4 PM
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Sunday: 8 AM–4 PM
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Monday–Thursday: Closed
Free Circus Shows:
Saturday and Sunday at 12 PM and 1 PM
Free Alligator Shows:
Saturday and Sunday at 2 PM
Weekend Karaoke:
Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM–5 PM
Admission Information: The regularly scheduled circus and alligator shows are free. Shopping, food, and optional activities cost extra.
Recommended Visit Length: Allow approximately 3–5 hours if you want to browse the market, eat lunch, and enjoy multiple performances.
Before You Go: Check the official website for current show schedules, special events, and any temporary changes.
Make It Part of a Central Florida Day Trip
International Market World is conveniently located in Auburndale, between Orlando and Tampa.
That makes it an interesting destination for travelers exploring Polk County and the surrounding Central Florida area.
You can spend the morning browsing the market, enjoy the free afternoon entertainment, and explore more of the Auburndale or Winter Haven area afterward.
It's an especially fun option for visitors who prefer unusual attractions and locally operated shopping destinations over traditional malls.
Is International Market World Worth Visiting?
If you love flea markets, bargain hunting, unusual Florida attractions, or family-friendly entertainment, International Market World is worth considering.
Where else can you shop for collectibles, browse fresh produce, enjoy lunch, watch a circus, and see live alligators in the same afternoon?
The combination of independent vendors and unexpected entertainment makes it more than just a place to shop.
It's an experience.
And because vendor merchandise changes regularly, you never know what treasures you'll discover during your next visit.
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