Hundreds of artisans, food vendors, and other attractions are once again set to draw thousands of visitors for the first leg of this year’s Canton Flea Market Arts & Crafts Show.
The biannual marketplace, which happens on and around the city’s historic square the second Thursday of May and October annually, is now in its 61st year. It began in 1965 as a humble street market with just 15 vendors. Now, it’s one of the premier flea markets in the entire state.
“If you’ve never been there during the flea market, Canton transforms into something you wouldn’t expect to be in our little town,” Canton Tourism’s Ace Henley said before the 2025 edition. “It explodes. We love to see people come out and support the arts. It’s why we do it.”
From pottery to fine art, handmade cloths and jewelry to unique home décor, the market promises to have something for everyone. More than 500 vendors are expected to line the square and surrounding streets to offer handcrafted art you won’t find anywhere else. By the end of the 2026 edition, the event is expected to attract over 1,100 artists and craftsmen.
A cornucopia of food options will also beckon marketgoers with “anything your heart desires,” including traditional fair fare and an array of local tastes.
The flea market will open Thursday, May 14, at 8 a.m. and run until 5 p.m. Entry and parking are free, though some paid parking options will be available closer to the market.