Fontana Indoor Swap Meet, a bustling hub for local vendors for more than 32 years, announced it will close its doors on Jan. 19, 2026, giving shop owners just one month to pack up.
The Sudden Announcement
The notice arrived on a Wednesday when several vendors inside the swap meet were informed that the location will close after 32 years of operation. The announcement was brief, with no explanation offered, and left many shop owners scrambling to understand what would happen next.
Vendor Voices
\”Upset, frustrated — I couldn’t eat or sleep,\” said Heidie Kim, who owns JJ Hosiery inside the swap meet. \”There are 70 vendors and a lot of workers.\”
Kim added that her retail shop and many other businesses are being pushed out after the owner of the swap meet sold the property. \”We were shocked because we prepared for Christmas with a lot of items,\” Kim said. \”Some people bought t$60,000 worth (of merchandise). I don’t know what to do.\”
Another vendor, Jun Jeong of 77 Portrait Studio, expressed uncertainty about the future. \”I have no idea (where I’ll be going),\” Jeong said.
Community Impact
The swap meet has long been a staple of the Inland Empire, hosting 70 vendors and attracting customers from across the region. Its sudden closure has left a void in the local economy and in the daily routines of many who rely on the market for their livelihoods.
Customers also shared their feelings. \”It’s kind of sad to see a community closing up that we were fond of,\” said Lydia Elizondo, a regular shopper. \”Their bargains are great, and the people are great.\”
Luz Perez, another long‑time visitor, recalled a treasured item. \”I have a necklace from my grandma from one of the stores,\” she said. \”We have been coming here for years. It’s sad to see this situation happen.\”
Owner’s Decision and Lack of Communication
The owner of the Fontana Indoor Swap Meet sold the property, and the swap meet announced its plans for closure on social media without providing any reason for the decision. The vendors were given a notice that Jan. 19, 2026, will be the last business day for the swap meet, leaving roughly a month to prepare.
\”If the owner wants to sell, it’s OK. It’s their choice, but why didn’t they let us know before Christmas season?\” Kim asked.
The swap meet declined to speak with NBC Los Angeles, leaving questions about the future of the vendors and the community unanswered.
Key Takeaways
- The Fontana Indoor Swap Meet will close on Jan. 19, 2026, after 32 years of operation.
- 70 vendors, including JJ Hosiery and 77 Portrait Studio, are forced to relocate or shut down.
- The owner sold the property and announced the closure without explanation, giving vendors only a month to prepare.
The closure marks the end of a long‑standing local institution and raises uncertainty for the vendors and customers who have depended on the swap meet for years. The community now faces the challenge of finding new spaces to continue their businesses and maintain the vibrant marketplace that once thrived in Fontana.
Hi, I’m Ethan R. Coleman, a dedicated journalist and content creator at newsoflosangeles.com — your trusted source for the latest news, insights, and stories from Los Angeles and beyond.
With over 7 years of experience in digital media, I specialize in reporting on breaking news, local culture, community affairs, and impactful events shaping the City of Angels. My passion lies in telling stories that matter — stories that inform, engage, and empower readers.
At newsoflosangeles.com, I focus on delivering accurate, unbiased, and timely content while keeping our audience at the heart of every story. Whether it’s the latest city developments, cultural highlights, or human-interest stories, I aim to bring clarity, context, and credibility to every piece I publish.
When I’m not reporting, you’ll likely find me exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Los Angeles, meeting locals, and discovering new stories worth telling.
Stay connected, stay informed — and thanks for being part of our community at newsoflosangeles.com.
