The First Monday Trade Days in Canton, TX is the world's largest outdoor flea market, spanning over 450 acres and featuring more than 5,000 vendors. Held monthly (Thursday-Sunday before the first Monday), it attracts up to 400,000 visitors, offering everything from antiques and furniture to clothing and food.
First Monday Canton has earned its reputation as the world's largest flea market, with a rich history dating back to the 1850s. Originally a local trading day, it has evolved into a sprawling monthly event, attracting vendors and shoppers alike.
There are over 100,000 people visiting Trade Days during any given First Monday weekend. Select the booth that works best for your business and make your market days smooth and profitable.
How much is admission to Canton Trade Days? Admission is free for all ages to attend First Monday Trade Days in the Original First Monday Park. However, there's a fee for parking.
First Monday Canton, Texas (World's Largest Flea Market) - Season 2 | Episode 26
What is the best month to go to Canton trade days?
First Monday is held year round – rain, shine or snow. April, May, September, October and November usually provide the best weather, but great deals can be found every First Monday weekend. December is also a good time to find Christmas bargains. Bring a small shopping pull cart or wagon for your purchases.
As for how much cash to carry, it depends on what you intend to buy. A reasonable amount for most shoppers would be between $50 to $100, but bringing more is advisable if you're eyeing big-ticket items or planning on making several purchases.
Is it cash only? Some vendors do accept credit cards, however there are many vendors who accept cash only. We have ATM's onsite but they may run out of cash on busy days. We recommend bringing cash to be prepared!
Known as "China's No. 1 Fair", the Canton Fair is a key global trade platform. The 138th Canton Fair is scheduled to open on October 15, 2025, with a total exhibition area of 1.55 million square meters. It will be held in three phases, focusing on advanced manufacturing, quality home life, and better life respectively.
It's a major event that attracts top vendors and large crowds. It's all worth it, too, with tons of unique crafts and delicious vendors around every corner. To experience First Monday Trade Days in Canton, Texas, you must book directly with Mill Creek Ranch Resort.
“Texas has this sort of reputation for being this rugged, independent state, like almost its own identity, right, from the rest of the U.S. But actually the U.S. government, Uncle Sam, is the biggest landowner in our state,” she said.
Canton, TX has a higher overall crime rate (38.79 per 1000 people) compared to the national average (33.37 per 1000 people), with property crimes being particularly prevalent.
Features over 2,500 vendors and 20,000 buyers every Month. The Rose Bowl Flea Market is one of the most famous markets in the world. Celebrating 50 years of continued success at the world-famous Rose Bowl in Pasadena California. If you come to shop or just browse you will truly enjoy the experience.
Keep an eye on the weather, dress appropriately and don't forget things like water and sunscreen for the warmer months. Keep in mind a lot of the items are old and dirty, so dress accordingly. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended. Scooters are available for rental to help navigate the market.
U.S. GDP per capita is about $82k. So China has a very long way to go to catch up with current US per capita GDP, and the US will likely continue to grow in the meantime (at least on a per capita basis). It's only over the very long term, if ever, that we can expect China to catch up to the US in per capita GDP.
For attending the Canton Fair, obtaining an official invitation is essential for the visa application process. You can apply for this invitation through the Canton Fair's Buyer Service System. Once you have the invitation, submit your visa application to the Chinese Visa Application Service Center in Australia.
While some vendors might accept credit cards, cash is king at flea markets. Bringing cash not only speeds up transactions but also gives you more bargaining power. Make sure to bring small bills to make exact payments easier. Flea markets usually involve a lot of walking and sometimes even outdoor exposure.
First Monday happens every single month on the Thursday - Sunday preceding the first Monday of the month. A great tip is to come on Thrifty Thursday or Sunday for shorter lines, better parking, first dibs on Thursday (the first day of the show) and great deals from vendors on Sundays (final day of show.)
The best-selling items at flea markets are often vintage and antique goods, like jewelry, furniture, and decor, alongside collectibles (toys, games, records) that tap into nostalgia, plus electronics, tools, and unique household items, with clothing (vintage/designer) and handmade goods also being popular, all boosted by impulse buys like food and snacks. The key is unique finds that offer good value, especially items that evoke memories or solve a need affordably.
NEGOTIATE. One thing you should have in your head before entering a flea market is to be ready to negotiate. Everything at a flea market is negotiable so don't buy anything at sticker price.
First off, here's a short list of what you can NOT sell at the Flea Market at Menge: food items intended for immediate consumption (without prior market manager's approval) tires. used upholstered furniture or mattresses.