The May show runs May 14-19; there are also shows in July and September.
September 4, 2012 - Brimfield - Staff photo by Michael S. Gordon - Dolores Ervin of Groton, Mass. and her daughter, Kim Ervin Tucker, right, of Islesboro, Me. look at stained glass windows at B & R Architectural Salvage of Youngstown, Oh. at the Brimfield Antique Show Tuesday, the beginning of the last of the three shows of 2012. BRIMFIELD - The tents are popping up along Route 20, a sure sign of spring and the kickoff to the antiques shows that make Brimfield an antiques haven three times a year.
The May show begins Tuesday and runs through Sunday, bringing thousands of dealers to the rural town, hawking everything from clothing and gardening items to postcards and paintings. There are 21 independent field operators who rent space to antiques dealers. May is traditionally the largest and best-attended show.
Some antique lovers visit the grounds as early as daybreak.
Brimfield Barn co-owner David Schultz, who has been involved in the antique shows for 27 years, said there are plenty of people who arrive at dawn in search of rare finds. Brimfield Barn opens at dawn on Tuesday for those early bargain hunters.
"They want to get out and beat everyone else to the good buys," Schultz said.
Central Park co-owner Patricia A. Waite is another longtime field operator with 24 years experience. Her field opens at 6 a.m. Tuesday and features 100 dealers.
"It's the thrill of the hunt," Waite said.
"We have a fresh load of merchandise that's been gathered all winter long," Waite said. "There are awesome displays."
She said "architectural stuff" tends to be sought after, such as old factory fixtures and lighting.
"That's the new way to decorate in New York City," Waite said.
Lois J. Shelton, owner of Shelton Antique Shows, also opens at sunrise Tuesday. She has 100 dealers, and said home decor - "shabby chic-style" - items are popular. She's been doing the shows for 40 years.
Brimfield attracts the famous as well. Shelton said one year, the Rolling Stones parked their tour bus at her field; they were recording nearby. She's talked with actor Barry Bostwick of Rocky Horror Picture Show fame. And actress Diane Keaton, dressed in her trademark funky style, bought a lemonade from her granddaughter at their lemonade stand.
Field operators advise visitors to remember where they park, wear comfortable, layered clothing and bring water. There are also plenty of food vendors scattered amid the grounds, featuring all kinds of food. Other show dates are July 9-14 and September 3-8.