First Monday used to be the first Monday of each month but First Monday is no longer on Monday. Not only that, First Monday now encompasses four days, none of which are Monday, but Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday preceding the first Monday of each month. Confusing? Well...it all began in the 1850's about 60 miles southeast of Dallas in Canton Texas, when the circuit judge came to town on the first Monday of each month. Area folks came to town to watch court proceedings and conduct their business. This also became their day to stock staples and so they brought with them their goods for trading. Naturally, being in Texas, this trading grew and grew and grew, becoming the largest flea market in the world, as well as the oldest. Today the little town of Canton, with population 3300, sees up to 300,000 visitors each First Monday.
This is, perhaps, one of the top five places in Texas to do your Christmas shopping. It's been said that if it exists, it can be found at First Monday Canton Trade Days. Shoppers can browse over 3000 vendors for both new and used items, antiques and collectibles, rustic furniture, contemporary furniture, iron works, jewelry, baby items, knick knacks, pet items, toys, electronics, sewing material, silk flowers, windmills, fountains, candles, and even hairpieces where you can get a free makeover to see how the hairpiece looks in place, before making a purchase. Crafts of intricate design will catch your eye such as quilting, woodworking, or even a wallpaper border mounted creatively on a piece of tin to create a unique wall hanging. Another bonus is that many Canton residents also set up their own personal fruit and vegetable stands or hold yard sales to coincide with First Monday. You never know what you might find and you're sure to find something for everyone on your Christmas list!
We happened upon a vendor called Barnwood Furniture who displayed beautiful, rustic furniture at very reasonable prices. What's more, the craftsman took orders for custom made pieces at no extra charge. We ended up ordering a weathered wood pantry as well as several weathered wood picture frames. The craftsmanship was excellent.
Although shoppers should wear comfortable shoes and bring along a cart for carrying merchandise, shopping is never a chore in this festive, casual atmosphere. Folks can be seen with their dogs on leash, kids enjoy jumping in the inflatable jumphouses, and delectable smells of smoky grills, nachos, corndogs, and ice cream waft the grounds.
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