Brimfield Antique Show

By Kim Knox Beckius, About.com Guide

The Brimfield Antique Show, held three times each year in Brimfield, Massachusetts, is the world's largest outdoor antique show, and it's been a must-visit destination for antique lovers for more than 50 years. The last Brimfield Show for 2012 runs September 4-9. Brimfield dates for 2013 are: May 14-19, July 9-14 and September 3-8. Hunt for bargains on antiques of all kinds along a one-mile stretch of Route 20 in Brimfield.

Here are six quick tips based on my visit to the show on September 10, 2009:

• Be prepared for a great deal of walking. Brimfield is a sprawling show.
• Arrive early for the best parking availability. Although some lots were charging more, we were able to find parking in a $5 lot on Thursday.
• If you plan to shop, bring along a sturdy tote or rolling cart.
• We overheard a passerby mention that the average Brimfield Antique Show visitor spends $175. Not sure if this is true, but I can vouch for the fact that it's possible to enjoy browsing without spending a penny.
• While some fields at the Brimfield Show charge admission, most do not. If you're more of a browser than a serious antiquer, you'll find plenty to see without paying an entrance fee.
• The centrally located New England Motel offers a food court with a great selection of dining options. The lobster rolls served by Rhode Island's D&L Lobster Express were a treat!

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