It is time for Texas Antiques Week or Round Top Antiques Week as it has been referred to for 43 years. One of the number one questions I am asked is “When does Round Top start?” and/or “When is the best time to visit Round Top?” My answer and suggestions vary based on the situation. As a rule the fall show is the first weekend of October and the spring show is the first weekend of April (and the weeks before). What started as 3 days is now THREE WEEKS. I think most would agree it started yesterday Sept 19th this year…so this weekend is good as are next week, next weekend and the next week! Through Saturday October 4th this year. And always remember different/specific shows start on different days. These are my favorites and dates this year.
More info on ALL shows and just good general info here at Round Top Chamber.
So when should you go?? Well are you going with children or girlfriends? Are you going to shop or just browse and hang out? Recreational visit or SERIOUS GET OUT OF MY WAY SHOPPING? And I am no expert these are just my humble suggestions, observations and recommendations. For instance Marburger is a beautiful show, if you are looking for something you will likely find it here but maybe not the best bargains. Bargains you will find early or late out in the dusty fields. Big Red Barn is the original show and fine antiques…really amazing pieces.
My bestie Melisse of Campbells Melange sets up at Red Barn with her wonderful prints shown above. Her parents are veterans of the show and her daddy can tell some fun Round Top stories. You just might see me at her booth during the show…I like it there because its AC and not dusty (I admit it;…we are both pale…we like inside shows;;)
So there are a lot of variety and choices…but don’t get overwhelmed!
First off, come during the week if you want to do serious shopping. The crowds aren’t as bad and I think it’s just easier. It is hard to say whether the beginning or end of show is better. Sure if you get here early you get first pickings BUT many dealers have series of stuff they bring out. So talk to dealers and others if you are looking for something specific. They may have something in storage they haven’t brought to tent yet or know of something.
Friday/Sat/Sun are busier but fun… Just be patient with traffic and strollers. I did a post here about shopping Round Top with kids. It can be really fun.
My boys love Round Top … taking photos, seeing old Army stuff and treasures….but you can bet if my only chance to go was with out without them I would go without. Just being honest. Luckily we live close and I can do mommy and work days as well as family days usually….
Also I hear this year there will be a trolley going betweens shows. You have to realize that Round Top isn’t like Brimfield or other antiques shows are flea markets…we are in Texas after all and it is BIG and spread out. You can walk a lot but you can’t walk it all. It will be interesting to see how the trolley works out..I hope it is a success and fun! Here is the map!
Don’t miss a chance to eat some Royers Pie or visit my fave PIE HAVEN owned and operated by my beautiful friend Tara. She is one of the most heartfelt and hard-working women in Round Top and there are many many! The town and shows are full of just great people!
Also be sure to explore nearby small downtowns like Brenham which have their own charming shops, my fave downtown is ANTIQUE GYPSY on Alamo. Eat Blue Bell Ice Cream. Go to my favorite stores Leftovers Antiques (more about their annual party and store on the blog next week) which is on Hwy 290 between Round Top and Brenham and Old Glory Antiques in Burton (also off 290). SO whether eating exploring tents or fields or stores its all wonderful and SO worth the trip!
Bottom line have fun and be kind! The weather is going to be gorgeous I hope! It is going to be a great show! Maybe I will see you out there!
Thanks for the Roundtop Post Holly! We are excited and ready to get there. And yes, we LOVE our air conditioning in the Big Red Barn!
One day….I will get to this show….I have heard so much about it! I know plenty of vendors who are there from Scotts and they would probably haul my treasures back to Atlanta for me!