I have always daydreamed of going to flea and antique markets throughout France.
Shopping at a flea market, known as “brocante” in French, is a great way to find special items for your home and garden. I find that flea markets in Europe, particularly in France, are more alluring simply because there’s more of a cultural appreciation for art, beauty, and repurposing objects in general.
Aside from quick browsing at a handful of antique stores in Connecticut or in Rhode Island—or occasionally scrolling through Facebook Marketplace—I’ve never had the desire to go antiquing in the United States.
So, I was intrigued when I learned about the Brimfield Flea Market Show on an Instagram Reel by Alexander Widener, a popular decorative arts influencer and owner of The Widener Company based in Wiscasset, Maine.
Then I kept getting more Reels from other influencers and the Brimfield Flea Market Show’s own Instagram account.
What is this? Is it really worth the hype?
Naturally, I had to find out for myself—and, spoiler alert, I found out that it was.
An Introduction to the Brimfield Flea Market Show
The Brimfield Flea Market Show (BFMS) is the oldest and largest outdoor antique flea market in the United States.
At the time of writing, Brimfield spans across 150 acres and hosts over 5,000 vendors within 19 different flea markets.
Be sure to check the Brimfield Antique Show’s website to verify locations, operating hours, and any other FAQ related to the event.
Read more about the history of the Brimfield Flea Market Show in this article published by Mass Live about Auction Acres, which is now listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
The Brimfield Flea Market Show is six days and held three times a year—spring, summer, and fall.
There’s ample opportunity to schedule your day trip or overnight stay to shop at Brimfield, so no reason to feel FOMO.
The Brimfield Flea Market Show is for everyone.
Brimfield is a fun, warm, and positive environment driven by the passionate vendors and curious attendees.
The huge appeal of going to Brimfield is that the experience is for professional collectors as well as anyone who loves antiques and décor—or even those who are just curious to stroll through and see what the whole thing is about.
People come with friends, colleagues, significant others, babies, and children. Dogs are allowed at some markets, but not all of them, so be aware of any notices at the entrance of each market.
What to Expect at the Brimfield Flea Market Show
Everyone tells you that Brimfield is huge. Believe them.
Really? How big could this flea market show be?
Remember how I mentioned that Brimfield spans across 150 acres? That’s nearly 114 NFL football fields. That’s a lot.
Be sure to wear comfortable sneakers.
Put together a wish list of what you want to look for.
It’s easy to go on an insane shopping spree while at the Brimfield Flea Market Show.
To avoid getting overwhelmed, try to set goals for the types of items that you’re looking for.
Large furniture pieces? Accent tables? Small decorative items? Outdoor garden décor?, etc.
Once you’ve figured out what you want, be sure to clear enough space in your car or, if applicable, be prepared to discuss shipping and logistics with your vendors.
Bring cash; do not rely on Venmo or credit cards.
I’m sure vendors selling rare antiques or furniture—read, sellers of very expensive pieces—accept credit cards.
As for everyone else? Cash is king.
After walking by a few hundred booths, I only saw two or three vendors that accepted digital payments. Also, I did pay cash ($15) for parking; however, this may not apply beyond Day 1.
Several content creators advise bringing more cash than you’d like, because your budget may easily blow up once you get to Brimfield.
Be patient with entering, exiting, and parking.
Unless you’re a professional collector seeking out specific vendors, there’s no reason to get up at the crack of dawn to shop the Brimfield Flea Market Show.
With that being said, I arrived on Day 1 before 9 AM, and there was already quite an overflow lot.
The traffic was at a crawl the entire time to accommodate darting pedestrians, couriers, and attendees waiting to park.
Packing List: What You Need for the Day at Brimfield
Water and Snacks
At minimum, bring a water bottle and a few light snacks.
While there’s a variety of food trucks and refreshments available for purchase throughout the show, I would recommend having snacks on hand to fight any symptoms of “hangry-ness.”
The best-case scenario? Pack a cooler with cold drinks, snacks, and sandwiches, then plan on eating in the comfort of your car to take a proper pause.
Cash
(see above)
Hand Sanitizer
I have no illusions about germs at large outdoor events like this; it’s just that it feels good to refresh after touching dirt and dust that may have settled on the antiques.
Wagon or rolling cart
Having the wagon to hold any small goods that you purchase makes it way more convenient and comfortable. Even better, you can also bring your small cooler of water and snacks with you to stay hydrated and nourished. Your body will thank you!
Reusable cloth bags
Reusable cloth bags can help protect or store items, rain or shine.
Apron and gloves
I think this only applies if you plan on moving larger items while wearing too-nice an outfit that you probably shouldn’t have worn in the first place!
But seriously, if you want to avoid any blisters or possible stains on your clothing, it’s not the worst idea to protect yourself.
Foldable chair
Aside from the antiques for sale, there are really no benches or seats for people to take a minute and rest, and seating is also very limited at the food concession areas.
If you’re already planning on bringing a wagon—but want to avoid going back and forth from your car to the show—bring a camping chair with you.
New England Parisienne 