In a few days my husband and I will be off to another adventure. This time, to my beloved state of TEXAS. It's been way too long and long over due since I've been back to my home state but alas...this won't be one of those lay by the pool holding a Piña Colada with small umbrella, or asking a concierge for advise on dinner reservations or where to get a couples massage trip.
Nope!
That's 'cause we'll be staying in a hotel in the middle of nowhere: Balstrop (forgive me), getting up with the roosters, sweating it out, walking all day, sun hats on, lots of sunblock, lots of water bottles and pushing a cart or something with wheels 'cause we all know CASH IS KING when it comes to shopping for vintage, antique and junk collectibles!
Texas Antique Week we're comin'!
Twice a year in the middle of Round Top, Texas pop 77+, located in Fayette County, half way between Austin and Houston thousands (I was told 20K) of people flock to this area to shop for antique and vintage finds hoping to find that special something. It's an event spread over two weeks. This year it's March 22 thru April 6 and September 20 thru Oct 5.
Round Top Antique Week began over 30 years ago in the Round Top Association Hall, when Miss Emma Lee Turney and her company, Antiques Productions were asked to do an Antique Show in a little German town that was quietly being restored, Round Top, Texas.
The show quickly became a social event for Houston socialites as they retreated to charming Round Top every Spring and Fall. The show was still small but it was the cream of the crop in quality dealers, and had the leaders and financiers of Houston buzzing. The fresh air and country-style shopping gave the society folk a chance to let down their guard and pick for their beautiful homes.
Round Top is no longer ONE SHOW. Over the years it has become a 10 day event featuring 1000s of merchants spread out over five small towns: Round Top, Warrenton, Carmine, Shelby and Fayetteville. The Round Top Register guessed at one time that there are now about 35 separate shows with at least 2,500 dealers. Not to mention the surrounding fields, warehouses, and tents covering cow pastures and black tops… Miles and miles of shopping, picking and wheeling and dealing!
Folks come from all over with theire RVs, Campers, U-hauls and trucks. Hotels & motels book up. We learned the hard way as this was an impromptu last minute decision, and struggled finding a place. Highly recommend you plan way ahead for next year if you want a room close to the event.
Expect traffic and long lines!
Lots of picking & antiquing!
There's something for everyone!
Make sure to measure your walls or area for that special "je ne sais quoi" for that you'll know when-you-see-it you're gonna buy.
Before and after at Marburger Farm, is a must see venue.
Lots of eye candy.
Need a phone booth? They've got one!
Get started on your English garden!
Don't forget your hat!
Or sunblock, lots of fun in the sun!
Miles and miles of shopping, picking, antiquing! Shop till you drop - open late!
For more information please check out these websites:
www.antiqueweekend.com
http://www.roundtoptexasantiques.com/
http://showdaily.us/
http://www.cactuscreekdaily.com/news/round-top-guide
http://www.flickr.com/photos/antiqueweekend/
Happy hunting y'all!
