Summer is a great time to explore Canada’s outdoor antique fairs and markets, whether you’re an experienced collector, a thrifting enthusiast, or just looking for a fun road trip. These events attract numerous reputable dealers, offering a curated selection of goods that cater to both casual browsers and serious treasure-hunters. Some markets even provide additional attractions like on-site food trucks to enhance the shopping experience.
Here are eight antique fairs and markets to consider adding to your summer schedule:
1. Aberfoyle Antique Market: Located south of Guelph, Ont., this outdoor market is dubbed the largest of its kind in Canada. Featuring over 100 vendors, shoppers can find collectibles, furniture, folk art, and more every Sunday until Oct. 25. Additionally, two Saturday Special Shows are held each year with over 150 vendors.
2. Old Strathcona Antique Mall Parking Lot Sale: The Old Strathcona Antique Mall in Edmonton hosts seasonal sales in its parking lot, offering outdoor vintage treasures in addition to its indoor vendors. The upcoming sales will be on July 12, Aug. 3, and Sept. 7.
3. Saugeen Shores Antique & Collectible Show: Celebrating its 48th year, this event will take place on July 18 and 19 at the Southampton Coliseum in Southampton, Ont., featuring over 80 vendors selling vintage clothing, jewelry, furniture, and more.
4. Vintage Pasture Sale: On July 18, the Vintage Pasture Sale in Langley, B.C., will feature over 40 vendors selling vintage and antique items at Locality Brewing. This event inspired by French brocantes also offers food trucks, farm stands, and a beer garden.
5. Sussex Flea Market: Held at Princess Louise Park in Sussex, N.B., from Aug. 14 to 16, this outdoor event organized by the New Brunswick Antique Auto Club is expected to host over 800 vendors selling a variety of goods.
6. Fraser Valley Antiques & Collectibles Club Vintage Collectibles & Antiques Show: Taking place on Aug. 28 and 29 at Queen’s Park Arena in New Westminster, B.C., this annual summer show organized by the Fraser Valley Antiques & Collectibles Club offers over 200 booths selling vintage clothing, sports memorabilia, and more.
7. Odessa Antique Show: Vendors from Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada will gather on Aug. 8 and 9 at the Odessa Fairgrounds, just west of Kingston, Ont., offering a wide array of antique items such as furniture, toys, glassware, and antique china.
8. Cookstown Antique & Vintage Show: The upcoming event on Sept. 12 at the Georgian Bay Steam Show Grounds in Cookstown, Ont., will feature over 100 vendors and food trucks. Enthusiasts can check the show’s website later in the summer for a complete list of vendors.