A Stop at Luckett's Spring Market
Ben Ashby
I haven’t been to a market or a barn sale in what feels like forever. I make an annual trip to The Strawberry Patch down in Hartsville, TN but I haven’t been to any others in years. Last week I knew I’d be driving from New York to Kentucky and I was really craving a different route. Something a bit more southbound than my usual PA/WV trek. While hunting for alternate routes I noticed that The Fruit Tea Chicks were doing a market in Virginia that same weekend. I also knew that I had been wanting to visit Luckett’s Spring Market for nearly a decade. I pulled up my map and quickly realized it was just a few minutes off interstate 81. I was sold, I would soon be getting my fruit tea and seeing a market I’d been so eager to visit.
When I arrived I had thought the market was going to be a small one. I would be in and out in an hour. I was stopping for fruit tea, to photograph the market, and to see Farmhouse Frocks. Simple. Easy. Fast. Three hours later I was forcing myself to head out after only covering a small section of this massive market. I am not one to give compliments, so when I say that you need to visit this market if you’re hunting for really cool antique and vintage pieces…add it to your list.
I only had a chance to take a few photos, but they are shared below. I loved that this is one of those markets/shows that you go to experience. It is a full day activity. Beyond the dozens of vendors of antique, handmade, vintage, and American made, there is a vast selection of food, there are lots of activities for all ages, and a mix of musical performances. I cannot wait to go back next year. || — Luckett’s Spring Market
5 Tips for a Successful Experience
Prepare for the sun and heat. Bring sun screen and prepare to stay hydrated. It is hot and sunny and you’re not going to want to rush through all the treasure hunting. Luckily there are many hydration options, but don’t forget the sunscreen at home.
Come with cash. It is true that most vendors accept credit cards now, but cash for the most part is easier and allows you to better keep track of your spending.
Arrive in the right vehicle. While you think you may only be coming to get fruit tea and a bar of soap, you will end up buying a hoosier cabinet and you will need a way to bring it home.
Sunday is often the best day to shop. The final day of a show, especially if it is a Sunday is typically a slower day and a day vendors are willing to make good deals on pieces they don’t want to take back home.
Don’t rush. This is a marathon. You have dozens of vendors to checkout. Don’t spend all your money in the first booth you visit. Know that you’ll likely find things you love or need in many more booths to come.
