Widener says, “I feel antique dealers are sometimes given a bad name, as if trying to take advantage. However, I’ve found that most care only about the objects and preserving history. They want to make people aware of that.” Setting up a tent in Brimfield can be a costly affair, costing upwards of $1000 for the entire week. Some vendors will sleep in their tents at night to protect their inventory.
Get the Lemonade
You can expect to find your usual fair food at the food stands: cheesesteaksThere are also hot dogs and a sandwich called a Pilgrim Sandwich (basically leftovers from Thanksgiving). Widener claims that the lemonade sold at Brimfield, especially the ones in trucks shaped as lemons, is the best. “It’s in a cup that you can bring back and get half price,” says Widener.
You can’t miss out on something that you love.
Widener is a big fan of handmade products, including antique American quilts. He says, “You regret only the things you didn’t purchase.” Brimfield is a place where you have to make quick, on-the spot decisions because of its size and rapid turnover. Trust your gut. He says, “If you find something that speaks to you then I would recommend you buy it.” It won’t be around when you go for another lap. You should also remember that if you have purchased a handwoven basketYou can always sell your tent on Facebook Marketplace if you see a better shape down the road.
Only if you are willing to, lean into chaos
You’ll notice that shoppers rush into the fields as soon as they open. Some people, in a hurry to get there as soon as possible, wear signs saying oddly specific things such “I buy fishing baits.” Lean into the quirky chaos—or don’t. Widener says, “If you notice swarms chasing after something, then you don’t need to be involved.” Once the chaos has subsided, there will still be positive things to see.
You must also accept that you will never see the stars. everything. Widener says it’s not about what you take home at the end of the day, but rather the experience.
