Twice a year, treasure hunters, antique lovers, and history buffs descend on the picturesque towns of Round Top, Warrenton, and other surrounding communities for Texas Antiques Week. What started as antiques Week is now Antiques Month. Spanning several weeks across nearly 20 miles of the scenic Texas countryside, this renowned event transforms the small communities into a bustling marketplace filled with vintage finds, quirky curiosities, and unique pieces of Americana. If you’ve never experienced it, Texas Antiques Week is more than just a flea market or antiques fair—it’s a cultural event rooted in history, craftsmanship, and Southern charm.
What is Texas Antiques Week?
Texas Antiques Week isn’t your typical weekend flea market. It’s a sprawling, semi-annual event (spring and fall) where thousands of vendors, collectors, and artists set up shop in barns, tents, and pop-up stores across several rural Texas towns. The event started in the 1960s in the small town of Round Top and has since grown to include neighboring communities like Warrenton, Carmine, Fayetteville, and Burton. Vendors and visitors from all over the country (and even abroad) gather to buy, sell, and showcase antiques, vintage décor, collectibles, architectural salvage, and much more.
The Experience
One of the most enchanting aspects of Texas Antiques Week is its eclectic and diverse atmosphere. As you stroll through rows of vendors, you’ll encounter an incredible array of items—from antique furniture and rustic farm equipment to retro signage, fine china, vintage clothing, and handmade artisan goods. Whether you’re looking for a Victorian-era armoire, a quirky mid-century modern lamp, or a rare piece of Texana, there’s no shortage of treasures to be found.
But it’s not just the goods that make this event special. It’s the experience of discovery itself. Exploring Texas Antiques Week is like stepping into a time machine, where each item has a story and every booth offers something unexpected. Vendors are often eager to share the history behind their items, adding another layer of intrigue to your find. And even if you’re not on the hunt for a specific piece, the joy of wandering and soaking up the friendly energy is reason enough to visit.
Where to Go
While Round Top is the heart of the event, Texas Antiques Week stretches across multiple small towns, each with its own unique flavor:
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Round Top: Known for its quaint charm, Round Top is the epicenter of the event. Here, you’ll find some of the more upscale, curated collections of antiques and vintage goods, alongside stylish boutiques and cafes. The Round Top Antiques Fair, held at the Big Red Barn, is a must-see for serious collectors.
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Warrenton: For a more laid-back vibe, head to Warrenton, where sprawling fields host hundreds of vendors with a mix of rustic finds, funky art, and everything in between. It’s also the spot where bargain hunters thrive, and haggling is part of the fun.
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Carmine, Burton and Fayetteville: These smaller towns offer a quieter, more intimate shopping experience. While they may not have as many vendors, they provide an opportunity to explore hidden gems and engage with local sellers.
Tips for First-Timers
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Wear comfortable shoes: Texas Antiques Week covers miles of territory, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking (and standing). A good pair of shoes is essential to enjoying the day. I'll add, dress for hot weather, Spring or Fall.
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Bring cash: While many vendors accept cards, Venmo or Cash app, some of the smaller booths or pop-up sellers prefer cash. Having cash on hand can also help you negotiate better deals.
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Stay hydrated: Texas can get warm...ok, it get HOT, especially during the spring event. Keep a bottle of water handy and take breaks to rest when needed.
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Plan for transportation: If you’re eyeing larger items like furniture, be prepared to arrange for transportation. Some vendors offer shipping services, but having a plan will make your life easier.
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Go with an open mind: You may come with a specific item in mind, but often the best finds are the unexpected ones. Allow yourself to explore and be open to discovering new treasures.
More Than Shopping
While the main draw is, of course, the antiques and vintage items, Texas Antiques Week is also a cultural and social experience. Live music, Southern hospitality, and a mix of food trucks and local eateries add to the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re catching a bluegrass band playing at a local cafe or savoring a BBQ sandwich between shopping stops, the community spirit is palpable.
There’s also a growing trend of integrating more modern elements into the event, with vendors offering artisan crafts, handmade jewelry, and one-of-a-kind artworks alongside the more traditional antiques. This blend of old and new makes Texas Antiques Week appealing to a wide range of visitors.
Why It’s Worth the Trip
Texas Antiques Week is more than a shopping excursion—it’s an experience. It’s a chance to hunt for forgotten treasures, meet friendly people, and immerse yourself in rural Texas hospitality. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, this event offers something for everyone. The combination of scenic landscapes, unique finds, and friendly faces makes Texas Antiques Week a truly unforgettable experience.
So, pack your bags, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to dive into one of the largest and most exciting antiques festivals in the country. Happy hunting!