Secrets To Shopping The Brimfield Flea Market
Ah, the Brimfield flea market and antique show in central Massachusetts. Brimfield has my heart. AND takes all my money every year. And with another show around the corner, it’s high time I share my Brimfield Flea Market guide and divulge all my secrets.
The Brimfield Antique Flea Market, more affectionately known as Brimfield, is a collection of sellers spanning dozens of different fields in the Brimfield area. Brimfield antique shows take over a long stretch of Palmer Road, in Brimfield, MA. The show features thousands of vintage vendors and it’s a great opportunity to hunt for vintage finds.
Think, massive flea market with a mix of traditional flea market vendors and booths with curated fine antiques.
My Brimfield Background
Every great love story has an origin story and this is mine with the Brimfield antique show.
Back in my angsty teenage years, I disliked the holidays. Especially Thanksgiving and Easter because it meant a trip to Fort Kent, Maine to spend some time with my grandparents. I loathed those trips. Fort Kent is about as far from “civilization” as you can get (those are my angsty teenage words, not my current cultured, adult mindset…note the slight side of sarcasm). And my grandparents were very French-Canadian, traditional, and unrelatable to a teen.
But on every trip, my Mamere (grandmother) would talk about her adventures with her sister to Brimfield. She would show us the treasures and tell stories of the haggling. As a budding thrifter, I perked up. Although my idea of a good find circa 1998 was a soft pair of vintage corduroys with a flannel.
I never forgot the stories of Brimfield, so when I bought my first home in Maine, within an extra long day trip to Brimfield, I had to make my pilgrimage to the event. At this point in my life, I was furnishing and decorating my first home just after moving when all my belongings fit in the back of a pickup truck. Needless to say, my new home was sparse and needed a few things. I spent every Saturday at the flea markets in Downeast Maine or scouring the local yard sales.
So when I arrived at the Brimfield antique show with its thousands of vendors and sea of treasures, it was an instant love affair. I dragged Colby from booth to booth, creating my own stories of treasures found, haggling, and learning the vendors’ stories.
Since that initial trip in 2010, I’ve attended most of the Brimfield shows for at least one day. Except for the dark days of COVID and no venturing or flea markets to speak of.
So now I feel like Brimfield is an old hat. I have my favorite parking spot, know my favorite vendors by name, and can tell you where to get the best sandwich. And donuts! So today, I’m sharing with you as many of my secrets as I can drum up. Without further ado…
Brimfield Basics
The Brimfield basics. Let’s start with the five Ws. Who, what, where, when, and why. Without those basics, what kind of Brimfield aficionado would I be?!
Who Is Brimfield For
Brimfield is for anybody. Seriously. Whether you’re a single mom looking for some stunning vintage threads or an 80-year-old collector of vintage cameras. There are things for you at Brimfield.
In the last five-ish years, maybe longer, the event has garnered a reputation that it’s too expensive. There’s a stigma that the only people who can shop there are the rich homeowners and their designers.
That’s entirely not true. I always go on a budget, armed with $200 which covers not only my vintage purchases but parking and food. I come home with a full tote bag every time. Sometimes with a trunk full if I hit a good “going out of business” sale at the end of a show.
What Is Brimfield
Brimfield is one of the largest and oldest outdoor antiques events in the country. The event has been running since 1959 and attracts shoppers from all over the country and the world.
While Brimfield may look like one big event and flea market, it is technically a collection of independent shows melded together into one. There are 17 individual fields/locations along the stretch of Palmer Road in Brimfield, Massachusetts.
Each show field has its own event details. Visit the Brimfield flea market guide website for the most up-to-date list of the shows, opening and closing days, hours (if applicable), and admissions rate (if applicable).
Shows occasionally get sold so sometimes the field owners of the specific antique show field will change the show details, like opening day or its specific opening times. It doesn’t hurt to check out the latest schedule and event info.
Where Is Brimfield
Brimfield is located on Route 20, between exits 8 and 9 of the Massachusetts Turnpike. The show is along the main road with exhibitor space on both sides.
I always plug “Brimfield, MA” into my iPhone maps app for GPS directions and it gets me there with no problem. The Brimfield directions page has much more details about how to get there.
When Is Brimfield
Brimfield happens three times a year with week-long shows in the spring, summer, and fall. The show dates are typically in May, July, and September.
The Brimfield flea market Massachusetts dates for 2024 are May 14-19, July 9-14, and September 3-8.
Check out the Brimfield schedule for a full schedule of what days each field is open along with current updates.
Why Shop Brimfield
I mean, why wouldn’t you want to shop at Brimfield?! The show embraces the spirit of antiquing while also holding space for flea marketing. It’s a massive event and one of, if not the largest, antiques and vintage shopping footprints out there. It’s a haven for finding that out-of-the-box item and if you do a lot of digging, you can often find the thing you were looking for.
On top of the nuts and bolts of antiquing and shopping vintage, it’s also a cultural experience. There’s nothing like the people of Brimfield, coming from all walks of life, both the shoppers and the vendors. But with a shared purpose of buying and selling vintage.
The picking is amazing, the deals abound, the curated antique dealers serve up booth eye candy, the food is delicious (more on that in a moment), and if none of that appeases you, you’ll get a good walk. I rarely come home with any less than 25,000 steps for the day.
Shop Brimfield Flea Market Like A Pro
Now that we’ve covered the basics of the famous Brimfield antique flea markets, it’s time for the fun part. I’m spilling the beans on all my favorite Brimfield shopping tips.
Do Some Flea Market Prep Work
Brimfield can be a bit overwhelming so I always recommend doing some prep work. Think about what you’re looking for, plan a budget, secure transportation for the size of items you’re shopping for, etc. There’s a big difference in how you prep if you’re shopping for large furniture pieces vs some art or storage baskets.
Consider researching the vintage items you’re looking for. What are good prices? How do you identify if it is truly antique or a replica? This information is harder to research on the spot and can help you negotiate in creative ways with the dealers.
Having a plan, even a vague plan helps you figure out all of the other logistics for shopping at the Brimfield antique show.
Get To Know The Layout
Maybe the most important tip is to understand the layout of Brimfield. The show is large although relatively easy to navigate. Some show fields are laid out more methodically than others. I almost always get lost in Hertan’s which is mind-boggling.
Before leaving for the event, print out or take a screenshot of a Brimfield map that includes the show fields. Don’t rely on cell service while you’re there. Sometimes it’s fine, sometimes the cell networks are bogged down by the sheer number of people using it.
Know the layout, have an idea of which fields you want to hit, and decide on meeting spots if you’re shopping with others.
Have A Plan
I rarely head into Brimfield with a plan. But this is because I live close enough to the show that I attend regularly. I also prefer to shop alone, walk about aimlessly, chat with vendors, and purchase anything small-ish that I can’t live without. I save big purchases for the thrift stores and markets closer to home.
If you’re making a big trip to Brimfield or are shopping on a mission, it’s important to make a plan. A good plan for shopping in Brimfield includes deciding which fields you want to shop on which days. Different fields have different opening days and many charge admission on the first day. If you’re looking for the best selection, arrive at the field the morning of its opening.
On the other hand, maybe you’re looking for the best deals or the least crowded areas. I love shopping in the morning of a different field’s opening day. Since there are so many people at the field opening, it’s crickets in other fields and I find I’m not jockeying for space with other shoppers and can peruse in peace.
Some important resources for making your Brimfield shopping plan include the show schedule and the map of the fields. There used to be a Brimfield Flea Finder App to help you find vendors but it’s currently defunct. If you need help researching vendors and their locations or looking for specific items, the Brimfield Antique Flea Market Facebook page is extremely active and helpful.
Deal Or No Deal
Deciding on whether you’re shopping for the deals or not can be helpful with planning your Brimfield trip and how you shop.
If you’re not shopping for deals and want the best selection, the old saying “the early birds get the best selection” holds. If this is you, be there for show openings. Shop early in the day and earlier in the week. Vendors don’t always have their entire stock out on the first day and will often replenish for the next morning. Shopping early will always get you the best selection.
If you’re looking for the best price or the best deals, here are a few tips.
First, shop later in the week. I LOVE shopping at Brimfield on Sundays which is the last day of the event. It’s also one of the busier days so be prepared for that. But it’s the day I can find the best deals. Like scoring a natural fiber throw rug for $20 when I’ve found similar at the show for $150 to $200.
Vendors are tired, they don’t want to pack everything up, and many will unload items at lower prices. One time, I shopped an everything-must-go-sale right down to the tables and tent at prices next to nothing. The vendor was retiring.
Along the same lines, shopping at the end of the day when the show is slowing down can also help you get better deals. Vending at Brimfield is expensive and sellers want to ensure they’re profitable. At the end of the day, knowing they’ve made enough to cover expenses and pay themselves, many are more likely to negotiate.
The show you attend also has an impact on prices. The July show tends to be the least attended. It’s hot. People are busy vacationing. July prices can be great. The September show can also be a good one for deals, especially the last day of the September event. It’s the end of the flea market season and some may be willing to offload items for a steal.
Get There Early
No matter what your shopping plan is, get there early. Arriving in Brimfield by 9:30 am at the latest ensures you won’t be waiting in long lines of traffic trying to get into town, you’ll have an easier time finding parking, and it’s your best bet to score the best pieces.
I’ve heard from and seen shoppers who arrive around 10 or 11 have difficulty finding parking. Or it took them over an hour to get through the main drag to an open parking space.
Along the lines of getting there early, perfect segue to…
Know Where To Park
There are plenty of parking areas at Brimfield. My top two tips for parking are one, get there early so you have your pick of lots, and two, park in the middle.
A few parking lots are smack dab in the middle of the show. My favorite spots to park are located in the field along Mill Lane, next to Hertan’s. There’s even a homeowner behind the field who offers parking. When you park in the middle, no matter where your shopping takes you, it’s a relatively quick trip back to the car to drop off your treasures. I once acquired an oar at one end of Brimfield and hoofed it back to the other end and vowed never again.
There is a nominal fee to use the parking lots. Most range from $10 to $20. The cost depends on who is selling parking and the demand for parking.
Whatever you do, don’t violate the parking rules. There is absolutely no parking on the main road. Local and state police will ticket you. You’ve been warned.
Prep Your Supplies
First, let’s talk about the supplies to take care of you. Think of good shoes for a lot of walking, a sun hat, sunscreen, raincoat, water, snacks, etc. Just think about all of the things you may want to have either with you or in your car for the event. Even things like extra shoes and clothes to change into after the event are helpful things to pack.
Consider what you’ll need for schlepping and transporting your items. Do you need furniture blankets and tie-downs? How about a big tote or a small shopping basket to carry things while you shop? Some people like to shop with wagons, which are great for lugging things but can get in the way quickly at vendor booths.
Choose Your Days Wisely
When choosing your shopping day(s), there are a few things to consider, beyond picking days for deals.
Let’s talk about the weather. Brimfield is held rain or shine. I’ve shopped the Brimfield market in all weather conditions, from scorching hot to chilly pouring rain, and not all shopping days are created equal.
While yes, you can shop Brimfield on rainy days, it’s not the most pleasant if you’re not prepared. Rainy days aren’t nearly as busy. I find that some vendors won’t even open until the rain stops. Booths are filled with water and mud and it can be a miserable shopping experience if you’re not prepared.
My best rainy-day shopping tips: wear a raincoat or poncho, umbrellas are one more thing to carry and get in the way, carry a zippered tote for your finds, and waterproof shoes or boots are a must.
Shopping in the summer heat of July is another tough show to shop but it is the least crowded event. When it’s super hot, there are fewer shoppers which is nice. But it gets hot fast and people get cranky fast. If you dress in light layers, bring lots of water, and take breaks you’ll be fine.
Think about weekends vs weekdays. Weekends are a zoo. If you’re shopping over the weekend just be patient and prepared. Weekdays are often less crowded, but they are still very crowded.
Also, watch the weather in terms of the busyness of the show. For instance, if there are two nice days in the forecast and the rest of the show is expected to be underwater, the nice weather days will for sure be mobbed.
So in general, look at the show schedule, check out the weather, and make some choices on your shopping day(s) that best fit the kind of shopping you want to do.
Haggling Tips
Often at flea markets, haggling and negotiating on price is expected. While different people have different opinions on how to negotiate, my favorite tip is if something is above your price point, kindly ask if that’s their best price. Many vendors will respond with, “I could go down to this amount of dollars.” If it’s not what you had in mind, be prepared to walk away.
As an introvert, sometimes I negotiate if I have the energy for it. But most of the time I pay the price asked. But I’m also already shopping for the deals and I find the prices to be great anyway.
Eating At Brimfield
If you want the total Brimfield experience, eat at Brimfield. There are many food trucks along the main drag to get food. Whether it’s coffee and a donut for breakfast, a sandwich for lunch, or a frosty beverage to make it through a hot July afternoon.
Brimfield Food Trucks
The food trucks at Brimfield are plenty. Most of them, are located right along the main road in a food court arena. You can find just about anything at the food trucks but I’m going to share my three favorites, perhaps the most iconic Brimfield eateries at the event.
First, Faddy’s Donuts. Grab one of their warm apple cider donuts and a coffee on a chilly spring morning. And be sure to bring a bag of donuts home to your family. I’ve had many, fresh apple cider donuts and these are some of the best. Find Faddy’s Donuts along the road at Auction Acres.
Next, Del’s Frozen Lemonade. The iconic New England frozen lemonade stand has hit Brimfield and I am here for it. It’s a Rhode Island staple, making its way into Massachusetts and it’s worth the wait in a long line in July. Del’s is located along the road in Central Park.
Finally, the famous Pilgrim Sandwich. It’s a Thanksgiving sandwich with turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Don’t miss this sandwich. You can find it along the road in Central Park.
Brimfield Restaurants
If you’re looking for a sit-down dinner after the show, there are plenty of places in Brimfield or neighboring Sturbridge. While I typically day trip it and head home around dinner time, I haven’t experienced a restaurant meal after the show. But according to the almighty Google, there are many options.
Brimfield FAQs
Before we close out the guide to shopping at Brimfield, how about a few FAQs? Please note that many of these answers have no right or wrong answer and are my personal opinion after shopping in Brimfield for more than a decade.
Can I Bring My Dog?
Generally speaking, it’s not a good idea. Some fields are okay with dogs, but most aren’t. It’s also not a good experience for the dog. Service dogs are okay. Depending on the level of training of your dog, it may be fine, I just wouldn’t recommend it.
Can I Bring My Kids?
I don’t love to bring my kids to Brimfield. It’s a long day and a lot of walking and they’re over it after the first hour, if we even make it that far. The exception is that I did have a great shopping experience with my daughter just before she turned one. She napped in the stroller for hours while I pushed her around and shopped.
How Much Cash Should I Bring?
You could bring $50 or $5,000 and have a great experience. It depends on your budget and what you’re shopping for. Just know that you need to pay for parking and should budget about $20 for that. If you eat there, that’s another $20 per meal. Then factor in your budget for vintage goods. Tally it up and that’s how much cash to bring.
In general, cash is king so plan on bringing cash and paying with it for all of your purchases.
Do Vendors Also Take Credit Cards?
Some do but most don’t. This has shifted in the last few years thanks to Square and the accessibility of other payment processors. More and more vendors are allowing card payments, especially the larger, more expensive booths. But I wouldn’t suggest relying on card readers. Bring cash. If you do need more cash, there is an ATM in Brimfield.
How To Get Items Home?
This is when it’s great to plan ahead, especially if you need cargo vans or a truck for large furniture. If you do purchase large furniture, many vendors will hold it for you until the end of the day when you can more easily maneuver your vehicle to their booth for loading.
There are also porters in Brimfield who can help you load or hoof things for you. They’re the crew in the neon shirts. Porter services do come at a price.
While you’re shopping, I recommend using a small cart or a tote to carry your items in. By small cart I mean the kind you maneuver around a city. The cart needs to be super small because maneuverability is an issue. A tote is also handy if you’re shopping for small items.
If you do need to ship items home, I’ve heard there are some creative delivery options available at the show. A couple of shipping companies have set up shop at Brimfield and can pack and ship your items to your home for a price.
Is There A Dealer Directory?
Social media is your best bet for a dealer directory. The Brimfield Antique Flea Market page on Facebook is my personal favorite spot to find vendors and what they’re selling. It’s also a great community to ask questions about the show.
What Can You Find At Brimfield?
Absolutely anything and everything! There are plenty of booths with many unique finds and unusual items. From vintage clothes to antique glass bottles, animal skulls, plants, old doors, and more. You’ll even find a creepy doll head or two, along with some repurposed creations.
Pssst…Thank you for stopping by my Brimfield Flea Market guide and Antiques Show in Brimfield, MA. If you have any questions, please leave a comment or email me. I’ll be updating this guide periodically and love to share my shopping experiences to make yours a little easier. The event can be intimidating yet absolutely glorious! Happy shopping!
