Round Top Texas 2015 - The Ultimate Antique Fair!

by Claudine Kurp

My partners in crime at the BEST hall of them all.  ZAPP HALL!

As a self-professed design junky I have long dreamed of a pilgrimage to the Round Top Antique Fair.  While the Round Top Antique Fair has gained recent attention since being highlighted on the HGTV show Fixer Upper, the fair has been around for ages.  I first started drooling over this bi-annual, 3-day event 15 years ago when shelter magazines like Country Living and Traditional Homes started highlighting the plethora of design barns and tents filled with gorgeous antiques.  After my recent move to Texas, it was finally my turn to experience Round Top 2015!  I recruited a few friends and told my husband he had to watch the kids. Off I went!

 
With more than 60 barns, dance halls, and tents...there is no end to the design inspiration and shopping  opportunities that await visitors.  I discovered that the fair is spread over many miles of sweet, little Texas towns.  It is best to research all of your options before heading out to conquer Round Top.  With over 100,000 visitors, endless tents and vendors, you will want a plan especially if you are there for a day trip. 

Each tent, show, etc. has its own personality and offering. Some of my favorites destinations were Marburger Farm, Zapp Hall and North Gate.  There was just so much to see in a day!  While we ran out of time, I absolutely want to hit the Junk Gypsy store on my next trip to Round Top. Oh yes...I am headed back!

As a Round Top rookie, I was elated to have one of my best buds with me.  She had been to the fair a number of times and helped me navigate the endless vendor choices.  We hit the Marburger Farm Antique Show first and fell head first into high-end antique pieces.  Round Top promises incredibly unique items for every buyer.

As we progressed down the Round Top path...we eventually hit Zapp Hall.  Zapp Hall is made up of number of tents, some filled with fun kitschy clothing others offered a nice sampling of Americana antiques.  This was by far the most fun we had during the day.  Zapp Hall has an awesome vibe.  There was live music, fun folks...throw in a little alcohol and instant party.  Can you say "open container"?

Well...I am happy to report, the trip was a total success.  While I didn't buy a lot of goods...I had such a fun time with my girlfriends.  I was also able to check off one of my "Design Bucket List" items.  If you plan on making the trip, I would recommend booking a room ASAP for the upcoming Spring 2016 show.  Rooms goes quickly.  We stayed in nearby Brenham, Texas.  While our drive was only 90 minutes from The Woodlands, Texas, we were exhausted by 8pm.  It was worth getting a room.  If you are feeling adventurous, head back to Zapp Hall in the evening.  Expect live entertainment and even an adult prom replete with old prom dresses and bad tuxedos.

Before leaving and heading home I had to make one more stop in Chappel Hill, TX.  One of my favorite design bloggers, Holly Mathis Interiors, recently helped launch the insanely adorable store, True Blue Home.  It didn't disappoint.  I would recommend making this apart of your Round Top, Texas journey.  Main Street is completely charming with little shops and cafes all dressed for the season. 

Well that is all...y'all!  I am loving Texas.  Next up...I am heading to Waco, Texas to check out the Magnolia Market @ The Silos.  I promise to report back with lots of pictures.

Insider Scoop

1. Rent a room months in advance.

2. Try to stay for at least two days.

3. Most vendors do accept credit cards but you will be able to bargain more effectively with cash.

4. Many of the the vendors can assist with shipping options.

5. Kids and husbands are welcome, but I would not recommend bringing either=;)

6. Fly into Bush Intercontinental or Hobby Airport and then head toward Round Top.

7. Most of the folks I saw were packs of women out for a long weekend with friends.  Many of the visitors had brought coolers with wine and beer in VERY large SUVs.  They certainly know how to carpe diem in Texas.

8. Most of the bigger shows/tents offer some nice options for quick or lingering meals.  The main road, Rt. 237, is also littered with little cafes that open for the 3-day event.