If you love browsing antiques, purchasing one-of-a-kind treasures, or speaking with highly reputable antique dealers from across America, then you may have already heard of the Michigan Antique Festival in Davisburg — Michigan's premier antique and collectible festival. The festival, which is in its 46th year, hits historic Davisburg, and according to owner Lori Oberlin, it promises to be the biggest and best one yet.
"Our spring show in Davisburg was off the charts," Oberlin says. "We couldn't believe the number of people there. And we have lots more antique dealers signed up for the fall show. The buzz in the antique world in Michigan seems to be all about Davisburg now."
Davisburg is known for its rustic landscape, dotted with farms and horse barns and rich in local history, providing an ideal setting for hundreds of antique booths. The antique dealers — some traveling from as far away as North Carolina, Florida, and New York — will congregate in five large buildings plus additional spaces at Springfield Oaks County Park. Included on the park grounds is the Ellis Barn, which was constructed in 1884 and features a true gambrel roof and is a local landmark not to be missed.
Visitors can expect to find an extensive selection of shabby chic home décor items, refinished antique furniture, vintage jewelry, and more. According to Oberlin, every show has its own distinctive personality, so even if people have attended in the past, they won't want to miss this fall's opportunities. This year's festival highlights include a vintage wedding display, featuring fabulous floral designs and bridal ideas; high-end antiques available as part of a huge Barn Sale inside Ellis Barn; a Taste of Michigan pavilion featuring local produce and homemade goodies; the Shabby Experience highlighting dealers who specialize in shabby chic designs; as well as a classic car show and free antique appraisals.
In addition to the wares, local community groups will participate in the festival by providing various activities that will benefit worthy initiatives. The Holly Band Boosters will be assisting with parking at the festival as a fundraiser for their organization, while the Ride for Autism group from Oakland County will also be fundraising along with the Springfield Township Fire Department whose members will be donating their off-duty time for the cause. The local American Legion will take part as will Troops Need Love Too, volunteer organization that collects non-perishable food, personal hygiene products and recreational items for currently deployed servicemen and women from the greater Oakland County region. Festival visitors are invited to donate items, pack a box, and write a letter of thanks to servicemen and women. Finally, the Michigan Craft Beer & Wine Garden and Pints for Preservation will offer visitors a variety of Michigan-made craft brews and local entertainment while supporting local preservation efforts.
