Benicia, Martinez host big August shows
If you have not been to the Benicia Peddlers’ Fair, plan to go Aug. 13. This bash has attracted enthusiasts since 1963.
Approximately 300 vendors congregate along First Street all the way down to the waterfront in this historic river city — once our state capital. There is a cadre of antiques and collectibles dealers here, along with vendors selling hand-crafted goods, foodstuffs, plus new merchandise.
The organizers of this event wisely group vintage goodies in one area to make it easy for collectors who are hunting only for the older treasures. I tend to poke all over. As a result, I wind up buying potholders, sugar-free jam, maybe a toy or two for my greatnephew.
As you wend your way down the crowded thoroughfare, go into the sundry shops that call Benicia their home. In one crowded emporium last year, I netted a colorful, 1950s-era ceramic fish that now adorns my bathroom wall.
I’ll be on board from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to give informal appraisals of your family heirlooms and flea market finds. There is no cost for the first object, but there is a $10 donation requested for a second item. Firearms, swords, coins, stamps and precious jewelry will not be examined. Look for me next to the Information Booth at First and J streets.
The event runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission and parking are free. No dogs allowed. Proceeds help with the preservation of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and outreach programs. Details: 707-7458680, or www.beniciapeddlersfair.org.
On the other side n of the Benicia-Martinez Bridge, the semi-annual Vintage Market goes on Aug. 6 in downtown Martinez. Expect 150 visiting dealers and scout out treasures in 15 brick-andmortar stores. Hours: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission and parking are free. Details: 925-228-3577, or www.mainstreetmartinez.org.
I recently asked readers n going to Palm Springs for the “Antiques Roadshow” taping on Aug. 6 to contact me. As it turns out, several folks plan to brave the sizzling desert temperatures to learn the value of their possessions. After the show is taped, I’ll fill everyone in on the news.
Two longtime column followers, Lou Faria and Bob Blake of Santa Clara, got in touch to say they were sorry not to be able to use their prized tickets. However, show rules state these passes cannot be sold. Happily, the tale ends well. They dropped by the Harris-Lass Museum last week in Santa Clara for the annual antiques show-and tell benefit. Because of the couple’s generous donation, two others will take that coveted trip — what I call a “rite of passage” for every antiques enthusiast!
The dates for the San n Francisco Vintage Paper Fair have been changed to July 30-31. This show, formerly set for August, has got to be the most popular of its kind in our region. Get in on the fun at Golden Gate Park, Hall of Flowers, Ninth Avenue and Lincoln Way. Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 30, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. July 31. Admission free. Details: 415-531-0553, or www.vintagepaperfair.com.
Jewelry fanciers will n be pleased to know about the Gem Faire from Aug. 5-7 at the Alameda County Fairgrounds. Besides all the baubles up for sale, you can avail yourself of services such as jewelry repair, cleaning, even ring-sizing. The action takes place at 4501 Pleasanton Ave. in Pleasanton. Hours: Noon-6 p.m. Aug. 5, 10 a.m. 6 p.m. Aug. 6 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 7. Admission: $7, fee good for entire weekend. Door prizes awarded every hour. Details: 503-252-8300, or www.gemfaire.com.
On Aug. 9, it’s time n for the San Juan Bautista Antiques and Collectibles Fair. Now in its 51st year, this shindig is sponsored by the San Juan Bautista Rotary Club. About 100 exhibitors set up on and near Third Street in the mission town founded in 1797. You’ll see silver, glass, jewelry, toys, furniture, clocks, china, books and much more.
After you’ve made the rounds of all the outdoor booths, you’ve got lots more shopping to do. San Juan Bautista boasts at least eight antiques stores. And keep your eyes peeled for signs alerting you to the many tag sales that mushroom up all over the picturesque town.
Please drop by to see me between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. to hobnob, or share one or two of your treasures. There’s no charge for these informal evaluations. I am going to be in front of the Union Bank Building at Third and Mariposa streets.