Welcome to Canton, Texas, home of the world’s largest and oldest flea market, First Monday Trade Days! Held the Thursday through Sunday before the first Monday of each month, this iconic event draws up to 100,000 visitors to browse over 5,000 vendors across 450 acres. But Canton offers more than just shopping. This 700-word itinerary will guide you through a perfect weekend, blending flea market canton fun with local charm, dining, and attractions.

Friday: Arrive and Explore Downtown Canton

Morning: Check-In and Breakfast

Arrive in Canton and settle into your lodging. For a unique experience, book a Conestoga wagon at Silver Spur Resort or a cozy cottage at Mill Creek Ranch Resort, both offering family-friendly amenities like paddle boating and pools. If you prefer hotels, Days Inn or Silver Spur Inn are conveniently located. For breakfast, head to The Pony Expresso, a quirky drive-thru coffee shop in a former bank on the downtown square. Grab a latte and a pastry to fuel your day.

Afternoon: Historic Downtown and Lunch

Spend your afternoon strolling Canton’s historic downtown, a Texas Main Street City with unique shops and eateries. Browse boutiques like Bellum and Rogue for trendy clothing or the Paul Michael Company for home decor. For lunch, stop at Mama T’s on The Mountain, a local favorite serving fried mac and cheese and mouthwatering BBQ. The Mountain also offers live music, adding a festive vibe to your meal.

Evening: Chuckwagon Dinner and Relaxation

Kick off your First Monday weekend with a chuckwagon dinner at Silver Spur Resort, a modern take on Old West dining with hearty dishes like smoked brisket and cornbread canton flea market. These dinners often coincide with First Monday weekends, so book ahead. After dinner, unwind at your lodging or take a short drive to Cannon Creek Vineyard for a glass of local wine. Its family-owned charm and scenic views make it a perfect spot to end your first day.

Saturday: Dive into First Monday Trade Days

Morning: Early Start at the Flea Market

First Monday Trade Days opens at sunrise, but arriving by 8:30 AM helps you beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Park at the main entrance on Highway 19 ($5 parking, free admission) and grab a map to navigate the sprawling grounds. Start at the Canton Marketplace, a climate-controlled pavilion with over 300 vendors selling upscale items, from jewelry to antiques. Don’t miss the food court for a quick coffee or corn dog. Bring a rolling cart or wagon for purchases, and wear comfy shoes—you’ll be walking a lot!

Afternoon: Shopping and Lunch

Continue exploring the outdoor pavilions, where you’ll find everything from vintage furniture to handmade crafts. Bargain hunters can haggle for deals, but bring cash, as some vendors don’t accept cards, and ATMs may run dry. For lunch, indulge in carnival-style treats like red velvet funnel cakes or lemonade from McKinney’s, known for its old-school corn dogs. Take breaks in shaded areas to avoid overheating, especially in summer.

Evening: Dinner and Escape Room

After a full day of shopping, head to Q & Brew at Silver Spur Resort for a casual dinner of smoked meats and craft beer brewed on-site. Cap the night with an escape room at the resort, where you’ll solve puzzles in a cave-themed setting. It’s a fun, family-friendly activity that adds a modern twist to your Canton adventure. Book in advance, as spots fill up during busy weekends.

Sunday: Family Fun and Departure

Morning: Splash Kingdom Waterpark

Cool off at Splash Kingdom Waterpark, just west of Canton on I-20. With slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, it’s a hit for families. Silver Spur Resort offers discounted tickets, so check with them when booking. Arrive early to snag a spot and enjoy a few hours of water fun before lunch.

Afternoon: Lunch and Local History

For lunch, visit the Canton Civic Center for a quick bite and air-conditioned comfort. Afterward, stop by the Blackwell House Museum, Canton’s oldest home, built in 1880. Open by appointment, it offers a glimpse into local history. If time allows, visit the Van Zandt County Veterans Memorial Plaza to honor service members, featuring replica aircraft and a striking statue.

Evening: Departure

Before leaving, grab a coffee at The Pony Expresso for the road. If you’re driving back to Dallas (about an hour away), consider a more info quick stop at Buc-ee’s at I-20 and US-80 for snacks and souvenirs. Your Canton weekend, filled with shopping, history, and family fun, will leave you eager to return for the next First Monday!

Tips for Your Trip

Book lodging early, as Canton fills up during First Monday weekends.

Spring (April-May) and fall (September-November) offer the best weather.

Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat for outdoor shopping.

Check the 2025 First Monday calendar at canton flea market texas

for exact dates.

Enjoy your Canton adventure, where treasures and memories await