The ‘British Car Flea Market’ began in 1982 by the members of the Austin Healey Club and was held at the Dundas Valley Community Centre. That first event was so successful it was decided to make this an annual event. The British Sports Car Club came on board to help with the growing need for volunteers and growing financial obligations. This has proven to be a great partnership.

Our event moved to the Dundas Armories for the next six years and continued to grow. We needed more room! So, we moved to the  Ancaster Fairgrounds and became the ‘Ancaster British Car Flea Market’ and changed our date to April to better kick off the start of the collector car season and coming summer weather.

In the late 80’s, the clubs established the Ancaster Flea Market Committee staffed by members from both clubs to manage and run the annual event.

This new venue and date allowed for the addition of outside vendors and the start of the Car Show. We stayed at this location for the next 19 years.

In 2009, the City of Ancaster built a new Fairgrounds facility and we moved again, this time to our current home. 40 years ago, that first Flea Market was visited by 400 people. Our attendance has grown to 3,000 with 325 British cars on display last year. Our ‘Start of the Season’ Flea Market is one now one of the largest and is attended by enthusiasts from across North America.

In 2018 our name changed to the ‘Ancaster British Car Show & Flea Market’. With 300 or more cars on display and more cars every year, we felt this needed to be a featured part of our event. In addition, we set up a specific area to display Cars for Sale which made it easier for visitors and sellers alike.

As you can see, this has become a big deal. It just wouldn’t be possible if not for the dedication and love for the sport by both clubs, the committee members, the vendors and the dozens of volunteers the devote so much of their time to make the Ancaster British Car Show & Flea Market a continually successful annual event.