Overview
The Brimfield Antique Festival, often called the “Brimfield Antique Show,” is a must-visit event for antique lovers, collectors, and casual shoppers from New England and beyond. It’s one of the largest and most well-known outdoor antique shows in the United States, held three times a year in Brimfield, Massachusetts. With hundreds of vendors, the festival offers a vast array of antiques, collectibles, vintage items, curiosities, furniture, and anything else you might want, spread across several fields and covering miles along Route 20. Whether you are looking for a creepy porcelain doll or an antique hacksaw, a mid-century credenza or a pair of tap shoes, a lock of hair in a locket or some old tintype photos of people you don’t and will never know, you’ll find it here. I’m pretty sure when they created the saying “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure”, it was on the fields of Brimfield. As you might expect, all of us at Comma Vintage are big fans of this festival, and to be located just 40 mins away from our Hartford headquarters, you better bet we are going multiple times a year to get our vintage fix! As now experienced attendees, we know the whole experience, while fun, can also be a bit overwhelming. To prep you and give you a first look, we have prepared for you this Beginners’ Guide, filled with some crucial information to kick start your trip!
The final weekend of the festival this year will be from September 3rd to the 8th, it is something you will not want to miss. Just ask me and my wallet, it’s a truly amazing experience.
When and Where
- Location: Brimfield, Massachusetts, along Route 20.
- Dates: The festival is held three times annually, usually in May, July, and September. Each show typically lasts for six days, from Tuesday to Sunday. The upcoming dates are September 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8.
Getting There
- By Car: Brimfield is located off Interstate 90 (the Massachusetts Turnpike). There’s ample paid parking available in fields and lots around the festival area. I’ve consistently found parking for $10 to $15 depending on the distance. If you are paying anything above that, then you are too close! The miserable walk back to the car with too much to carry is part of the experience 😉
- By Plane: The closest major airport is Bradley International Airport in Hartford, Connecticut, about 45 minutes away. It’s totally worth the trip out, and I admire your dedication!
- By Public Transport: Public transportation options are limited, so driving is usually the best option.
Planning Your Visit
1. Timing
- When should I arrive?: The festival opens as early as sunrise, and the best deals are often snagged in the early hours. If you’re hunting for something specific, plan to arrive early. Though I’ve never done it, some people arrive at 6am to score the best deals, and that gets massive props from me.
- How long should I plan to stay?: With over 20 fields and thousands of vendors, it’s impossible to see everything in one day, or two. Many visitors plan to spend multiple days, especially if they’re serious about their shopping.
2. What to Bring
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, often on uneven terrain, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential. If it’s damp, hiking shoes or boots are recommended. It will get muddy!
- Cash: While some vendors accept credit cards, many prefer cash. Bringing small bills is also handy for negotiating. There are ATMs in some places, but just plan ahead and avoid the hassle.
- Tote Bags or Carts: Carrying your finds is easier with a sturdy tote bag or a small rolling cart. Though if you are getting furniture, you’ll have to get a bit creative. Vendors will usually hold your items for you to swing your car around later.
- Water and Snacks: There are plenty of good eats, from seafood to donuts, Thai to pasta. Although there are food vendors, having your own snacks and water can be a lifesaver, especially during peak hours.
- Notebook and Pen: Jot down booth locations or details if you plan to return to negotiate or pick up an item later.
Navigating the Festival
1. Fields and Layout
- Fields: The festival is divided into several fields, each managed by different promoters. Some fields have an entry fee, while others are free. Fields often have specific opening times, so plan your visit accordingly.
- Maps: Grab a map at the entrance or download one from the Brimfield Antique Show website to help navigate the sprawling setup. But if you are anything like me, just wing it, you’ll find the best stuff when you aren’t really looking 🙂
2. Shopping Tips
- Haggle with Respect: Negotiating is common, but always be polite and reasonable in your offers. The vendors are more likely to cut you a deal if you are friendly and engage them in small talk first!
- Inspect Carefully: Examine items closely for any damage, repairs, or authenticity issues.
- Shipping Arrangements: If you buy large items, ask vendors if they offer shipping services, or consider renting a truck if you’re purchasing bulky furniture. Otherwise, call up that one friend that has a truck and pay him in pizza. Kidding (maybe).
- Keep Track of Booths: With so many vendors, it’s easy to lose track of where you saw an item. Use your phone or notebook to mark booths you want to revisit. I like to leave a trail of breadcrumbs, just make sure the birds don’t get to it!
Amenities and Food
- Restrooms: Portable restrooms are scattered throughout the festival grounds, but proceed with caution.
- Food: A variety of food vendors offer everything from quick snacks to full meals. Expect a mix of local specialties and classic fair food. The lemonades were lifesavers during my trip in July, but September should see some cooler days.
- Lodging: Hotels and motels in nearby towns like Sturbridge and Worcester fill up quickly, so book your accommodation well in advance.
Special Events and Extras
- Appraisal Services: Some fields offer appraisal services if you want to know the value of your purchases.
- Workshops and Lectures: Occasionally, there are educational events, lectures, or workshops on antiques and collecting. Check the festival’s schedule for details.
- Meet the Dealers: Take the time to chat with the dealers. Many are experts in their fields and can provide valuable insights into the items they’re selling. So whether you are a novice or a seasoned antiquing veteran, the connections you make here can be rewarding and valuable.
Final Thoughts
The Brimfield Antique Festival is not just any shopping trip, it’s an experience, in every sense of the word. For the past few years of living in the area, I have made it to the festival every single year, sometimes a few times in a year. As a collector of furniture, antiques, and other odds and ends, I have found great success in getting what I want for a reasonable price. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time visitor, the event offers something for everyone. The act of searching for a tiny little trinket in a sea of items really tickles that one part of my gremlin brain. With a bit of preparation and an open mind, you’re sure to leave with unique finds and memories that will last a lifetime.