CULTUREMAP -- I was just a young girl when my mother started dragging me alongside her adventures as a Texas primitive antiques dealer at Round Top, Texas. Several decades later, I still can’t stand to miss the event, as it continues to grow and be a tradition for dealers and pickers across the U.S. My fashion market styling and photography career has taken me to Paris and New York City and back, but nothing inspires me more than treasure hunting every spring and fall in Round Top.
This Spring Antique Week is April 2-7. The main action occurs between Round Top and Warrenton, Texas, a five-mile stretch of 60-plus fields about halfway between Austin and Houston. Below, I’ve combined my personal picks with event favorites, whether you’re on a budget, looking to decorate your dream home, or just searching for a touch of vintage.
Before you go
The weather varies, and it’s usually rain or shine, so dress for it (hat, sunscreen, comfy shoes), and bring cash. ATM machines are hard to trek to, and though a lot of vendors take Square and other Apple point-of-sale systems, they are dependent upon wireless which is hit or miss. Most vendors are from out of town and won’t take a check, so cash makes negotiating more likely. Traffic can also be at a standstill during rush hour, so starting later or earlier is recommended, even though most fields and booths open around 9 am. Porta-potties are parked along the way, so take advantage when you pass one. Most restaurants and buildings have bathrooms — look for them when you duck inside.
If you only have one day
Marburger Farm, March 27-31, is the week before Antique Week and is a continued favorite of design experts and collectors, with 350-plus vendors curated with amazing art, furniture, and sculptures, under several tents and barns. Vendors like Michelle Billette comb the globe and bring curations to us first; she specializes in little-known but fabulous unframed contemporary art and unique fine jewelry. The $10 admission includes parking. There are a few outdoor cafes in Marburger, with nice selections, seating, and the wait is never long. Parking is well-organized and close to the entrance.
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