Do you love hunting for antiques, collectibles, or memorabilia?  Then Brimfield Antique Flea Markets is for you.  Brimfield Markets has become a mecca for collectors and decorators.  Located in Brimfield, MA, it is one of the oldest outdoor flea markets, and has been operating since 1959.  The markets are held three times a year - in May, July, and September.  This year the dates are May 14-19, July 9-14, and September 3-8.  The dates are roughly the same from year to year, but check their website (https://brimfieldantiquefleamarket.com) for the exact dates each year.

You can find a wide range of items, whether it's coveted antiques, quirky collectibles or rare memorabilia.  Not looking for anything in particular?  That's fine, too.  Brimfield Markets is a fun destination to explore.  You just might find yourself in need of something you did not even know you needed.  There are also food stands to help you stay energized and hydrated during your treasure hunting.  These foods are your typical carnival style fare such as Italian sausages, fried dough, lemonade, kettle popcorn, and even lobster rolls.

Here are some tips for shopping at Brimfield. 

1.      Dress appropriately.  Brimfield markets are open rain or shine, so dress appropriately.  Rain boots are recommended if it's raining or it has rained a few days prior.  These are outdoor shops and the ground can get very muddy.  Some shops are quite muddy so without the right footwear, you cannot enter to browse or shop. 

2.       Parking.   There are parking lots throughout the markets for a reasonable fee, $5-$10.  If you know the area you plan to shop, try to park in the lots near it.  Try not to park in the first parking lot you see as you drive into the market, as it might be very far from the area you plan to spend time.  Parking lots do get filled up fast, especially in the middle section.  The beginning and end of the markets tend to get filled up last.  Bring cash to pay parking attendants.

3.      Bring cash.  Cash is recommended as many of you know when shopping at flea markets.  Many vendors also accept checks, but prepare to show proper identification.  Very few shops accept credit cards.  Therefore, your best bet is to carry cash and checkbook.

4.      Go early.   If you are looking for something specific, try to attend the market on the first day or at least on the weekdays.  We found that big furniture items are sold on the first day in the early hours.  If you have time to attend only during the weekend, go early in the day.  Saturday is very crowded.  On Sunday, you may find better-priced items as vendors want to unload their items.  However, some vendors might have already left or are packing up to leave.

5.      Picking up your purchase.  Buying big items such as furniture can be challenging to take home.  There are porters who will help you carry it to your car and load for a fee.  Some shops are accessible by car, so you can drive there and ask the vendor to help with loading it into the car.  The tricky part is driving your car while navigating the shop layout and avoiding the crowds.  It is worth asking the vendor if they have a delivery option.  Most will offer delivery for a fee.  Some market attendants bring their own wagons to carry their smaller purchase items.