Third Monday Trade Days Flea Market: The Best-Kept Secret in Texas

My husband and I love to go to flea markets, and Third Monday is definitely the best we have found in our area. The flea market is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday before the third Monday of each month. It opens at 8 am and closes at 5 pm. It is about 31 miles north of Dallas and about 63 miles south of Durant, Oklahoma. It is definitely worth the drive! About 25,000 people shop there each month during those three days. Third Monday has been around for over 100 years and has earned a reputation as "The Best Kept Secret in Texas."

The parking costs $3.00 per car for all day, and admission is free. If you have young children, you can rent a wagon or a stroller. Mobility carts are also available, and there are two ATMs if you need them. If you get hungry, there are many concession stands with various delicious, high calorie foods like funnel cakes, caramel apples, chili dogs, and hamburgers. You will also find snow cones, popcorn, and hot dogs.

Third Monday has up to 400 vendors selling everything from antiques, clothing, furniture, tools, and even animals. Please note that on Fridays, there are usually only 200 vendors open. On Saturday and Sunday, there are at least 300 vendors open. There is a man that will give you a great deal on socks and baseball caps. You will also find vendors selling cowboy boots, Texas souvenirs, decorative rugs, toys, wood furniture, plants, and puppies. You may also find some exotic pets; one time we saw a small type of squirrel-like creature (I forgot the name for it). It was cute and was hand-tamed. There are also stands with many homemade jams, peanut brittle, and pies. There is an air-conditioned and heated building with many stands selling things like original paintings and many other items.

If you are looking for a purebred puppy, Third Monday is a great place to buy one. All the breeders are required to provide you with a sales agreement (be sure to actually read it) and at least 48 hours to take the puppy to a vet. The puppies are always a hit with the kids, although some of the breeders do not allow people to handle the puppies due to germs.

There are a few rules to know about. Alcoholic drinks are not allowed on the premises. If you are going to bring your dog, you must be able to carry it the whole time you are at the market. Other than that, bring your friends and family for a great day at the market! For more information about Third Monday, you can visit their website at www.tmtd.com.