A Shopper’s Guide to Marburger Farm Antiques Show: Tips on how to navigate the show, what to look for, and how to get the best deals.

Our trip to Round Top is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to take our team to the Marburger Farm Antique Show. Every year, this iconic event pulls us in with its irresistible blend of history, craftsmanship, and the thrill of the hunt. There’s something so magical about walking the grounds, weaving through barns and booths full of unique treasures from all over the world. Whether it’s the excitement of finding the perfect vintage piece or the fun of exploring together as a team, our time in Round Top is always unforgettable. If you're planning to visit Marburger this spring or anytime in the future, keep reading to learn how to navigate the show, score some great deals, and come away with some truly special finds.

Tips & Tricks to Navigate the Show

1. Plan Your Visit in Advance

To set yourself up for success at the Marburger Farm Antique Show, it’s a good idea to do your research in advance. Make sure you're familiar with the dates and times for the show you plan to attend. Marburger Farm Antique Show only happens twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. Tickets are required to visit Marburger, and you can easily purchase them on their website. They offer a variety of options, including early admission, general admission, and premium admission tickets. You can do your research to see which ticket is best for you, so you can get your ticket in advance and hit the ground running once you're there!

2. Map it Out

There’s a lot to explore at Marburger, as it's spread out across a vast farm with multiple barns and outdoor booths. Without a plan, it can be a bit overwhelming. To help navigate, you can download a map from their website or pick one up at the entrance when you arrive. We recommend setting aside a full day or even two to make sure you have enough time to take it all in. Since you'll be doing a lot of walking, be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes (or boots)!

3. Know What You’re Looking For & Be Prepared

The Marburger Farm Antiques Show has a wide array of items, ranging from antique furniture, vintage jewelry, fine art, collectible decor, and more. The key to a successful visit is knowing what you're after. Set your priorities. If you have a specific piece in mind, such as an antique lamp, an old map, or a vintage chair for your home, be sure to do some research on the type of piece you're after. This will help you quickly spot the right booths as you explore the show. Additionally, be prepared to transport larger items. If you're shopping for a big piece of furniture, plan ahead and bring a trailer or truck to make hauling it easier.

Our Shopping Tips 

1. Quality over Quantity

With such a wide array of booths and vendors at Marburger Farm, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and buy things just for the sake of buying. However, it’s essential to focus on finding high-quality, authentic pieces that have a story behind them. When in doubt, opt for quality over quantity. Investing in timeless and durable pieces is always worth it. Keep in mind that if you walk away from something, it's possible these one-of-a-kind pieces might not be there if you go back for it.

2. Look For Hidden Gems

While many of the larger booths at Marburger will feature high-end antiques and high-priced collectibles, some of the best deals can often be found in the smaller, less obvious booths. These hidden gems might require a bit more digging, but they’re well worth the effort. We love to look for smaller, unique finds like vintage linens and textiles, antique jewelry, and old books or stationary. A beautiful home is built from a collection of small, meaningful details. The Marburger Farm Antique Show is the perfect place to find these unique treasures that bring character and charm to your space.

3. Bring Cash

While you may not always need cash, it’s a good idea to be prepared. Some vendors only accept cash, and it can be inconvenient to search for an ATM just when you've found a great deal. Bringing cash ensures a smoother shopping experience and helps you avoid missing out on a perfect find.

How To Get the Best Deals

1. Start Low, But Reasonable

At Marburger, negotiating is part of the fun! Many vendors expect some haggling, especially as the show progresses. Don’t be afraid to make an offer, but always be respectful. Being kind & building connections with vendors can go a long way. Keep in mind that a little negotiation can help you score a great price, but it’s important to maintain a positive and considerate attitude throughout the process. After all, it’s all part of the fun!

2. Bundle

If you find several items at one booth that you like, ask if the vendor will offer a discount if you buy more than one item. Many vendors are willing to negotiate a better price if you’re buying in bulk. If you love a certain booth, consider grabbing a few items and see if the vendor would offer a deal. This can definitely come in handy for us designers when we find something we think multiple clients would love!

3. Timing

Timing plays a crucial role in antique hunting, especially when it comes to events like the Marburger Farm Antique Show. As the show progresses and vendors are looking to wrap up their sales, they become more open to negotiation in order to sell more of their inventory. If there’s an item you were eyeing earlier in the event but walked away from, it’s definitely worth circling back toward the end of the show. Vendors may be more inclined to offer a better deal or give you a discount, especially if they have just a few items left and want to clear their booth. Whether it’s a piece you’ve had your eye on all day or something that’s been lingering in your mind, revisiting it towards the end of the show could lead to a better deal!

See you at Marburger Farm!

Whether you're an interior designer, a seasoned collector, or just love browsing for special finds, Marburger Farm is the perfect place to discover pieces with history and character. With its wide selection of vendors, beautiful setting, and opportunities for negotiation, it’s an exciting place to be! This year, we're especially thrilled to hold our annual team retreat in Round Top, where we can explore all the hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From vintage furniture to rare collectibles, there's something for everyone. So grab your cash, slip on your boots, and join us at Marburger, it's definitely an event you won’t want to miss! To learn more tips & tricks for your trip to Round Top, check out our Round Top Guide! See you there!