Unlocking the Treasures: Insider Tips for Conquering the Brimfield Flea Market
Top 10 tips of Shopping The Brimfield Show!
Shopping at the Brimfield Flea Market can be an exciting and rewarding experience for antique enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike. The Brimfield Antique Show is made up of approximately 15 independent flea market fields and runs along the 1 mile stretch of RTE 20 in Brimfield Massachusetts . It is sometimes called the Brimfield Show or The Brimfield Flea Market - either way it is a feast for your eyes.
As a seller and buyer at the market for over 15 years, here are my top 10 tips to make the most out of your visit:
1. Plan Ahead:
- Research the fields, opening days and times and where you plan to park. Not all shows open on the first day and some are just open for a day..... Parking can cost you from $10-20 a day. The big white church at the beginning of the strip has parking as well as some of the individual fields have parking behind or next to the vendors. Familiarize yourself with the layout of the market to maximize your time there. It may be wise to print out a map of the show. If you get overwhelmed easily, maybe just stick to exploring only one or two fields.
2. Arrive Early:
- The early bird gets the worm at Brimfield. Arriving early allows you to beat the crowds and have first pick of the best items before they're picked over. There is no rhyme or reason as to who is set up on one particular field, you just need to be willing to explore.
3. Wear Comfortable Shoes and Clothing:
- Brimfield is spread out over a large area, so be prepared to do a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers, as the weather can vary throughout the day.
4. Bring Cash:
- While some vendors may accept credit cards, many prefer cash for transactions. There are a few ATMs scattered throughout the show but they frequently run out of cash. Some vendors take cash apps like Venmo or Paypal but the internet can be spotty and not reliable. Cash may also get you a better deal. Bring plenty of small bills and change to make purchasing easier. If you see something buy it! It may not be there when you return.
5. Negotiate, But Be Respectful:
- Bargaining is a common practice at flea markets, including Brimfield. Don't be afraid to negotiate prices, but always do so respectfully and within reason. Ask is this your best price? Some may not negotiate on the first day. Dealers have spent months finding the treasures to bring to Brimfield and it is an expense to set up there. Dealers must pay for a town vendor license for each show, the cost of the space and other expenses like tent and table rental and accommodations to sell throughout the week. It is not inexpensive to set up at Brim! Bring a pen and paper (or use your notes app on your phone) to record dealers you may want to go back to or new contacts from people you meet
6. Inspect Items Thoroughly:
- Take the time to carefully examine any items you're interested in purchasing. Look for signs of damage, wear, or authenticity issues before making a decision. Perhaps bring a measuring tape if you are looking for something in a particular size.
7. Bring a Tote Bag or Cart:
- A tote bag, backpack or small cart/wagon can be incredibly handy for carrying your purchases as you browse. Parking can be a distance from the field you shop in and its handy to keep your purchases with you instead of always hiking back to your car. It's also a good idea to bring along reusable bags for smaller items. If you do bring a cart, be aware that you cannot take it into most individual tents on the field- bring a blanket to cover it when shopping away from the cart and try to keep an eye on it! Also if you collect or looking for a specific item- make a sign and hanging it off your cart (or make a t-shirt) , as a dealer I alway look to see what people are looking for! If you want to save space for your treasures- there is a place to rent a cart for $25 a day.
8. Stay Hydrated and Energized:
- Bring bottled water and snacks to keep yourself hydrated and energized throughout the day. Some fields have food trucks or food courts if you don't want to bring your own. Consider packing a small cooler or insulated bag to keep perishable items fresh. Bring sunglasses and a hat and maybe an umbrella if the weather warrants it. This show runs rain or shine!
9. Be Open-Minded:
- Keep an open mind and be willing to explore different areas of the market. You never know what hidden treasures you might find in unexpected places. The May show typical has the most vendors and the September show has good weather - the July show is typically less vendors and is typically hot- This does change year to year but it’s somewhat typical.
10. Enjoy the Experience:
- Above all, enjoy the experience of shopping at Brimfield. Take your time, soak in the atmosphere and people watching, and don't forget to have fun exploring all the unique finds the market has to offer.
By following these tips, you can make your visit to the Brimfield Flea Market both enjoyable and successful, while bringing home some fantastic treasures and memories along the way.
Let me know if you go or have been and what treasures you may have found!
Check out our small interview with Antiques and The Arts Weekly here:
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