Kobey’s Swap Meet, operating out of the parking lot of Pechanga Arena San Diego on Sports Arena Boulevard since 1980, rebooted May 29-31 after being closed several weeks during the pandemic.
“Kobey’s Swap Meet is happy to be back in business,” said Charles “Chuck” Pretto, the swap meet’s corporate counsel and vice president. “These are definitely trying times for all San Diegans. We were closed for 11 weeks and weren’t sure when we would be able to re-open.”
Added Pretto: “So we are happy to do our part to bring some normalcy back to Point Loma. We are celebrating 40 years of being in business and are extremely happy to welcome folks back. We are following both State and local guidance regarding wearing masks and maintaining social distancing.”
A walk-thru of Kobey’s on May 30 saw about half the number of vendors as usual. But enthusiastic crowds seemed glad to get outside. They stood in long lines with six-foot separation between patrons to get in. Masks were required and were also sold inside the swap meet and everyone was required to wear one to gain entrance.
All of Kobey’s vendors have to comply with government guidelines and new safety protocols. Staff increased the cleaning of high-traffic areas. Entrances were line managed. Portable restrooms were attended, and hand sanitizer stations were placed at all entrances. Family patriarch Monte Kobey launched his San Diego swap meet in 1976 at the Midway Drive-In. Forty years later, Kobey’s Swap Meet remains San Diego’s biggest outdoor market offering great bargains, unique items, and numerous garage sales.
Each member of the Kobey family has played a part in the accomplishments of the market, which has been passed along to the stewardship of Monte Kobey’s children and grandchildren.
Under Kimberly Kobey-Pretto’s management, Kobey’s Swap Meet solidified its reputation as a clean, family-oriented outdoor marketplace. Over the years, she has been able to keep the numbers stable despite increased retail competition and shifts in the local economy. For more information call 619-226-0650 or visit kobeyswap.com.
