Pier Antique Fair on This Weekend

Pier Antique Fair on This Weekend
A signed carved wood rooster from the American folk art collection of Judith & James Milne. Courtesy of Judith & James Milne

NEW YORK—This weekend, dealers and collectors of antiques will converge upon Pier 94 for one of the largest antiques fairs in the city.

Five hundred dealers of fine arts, European, American, Asian, and folk arts, antiques, home decor, jewelry, memorabilia, and furniture will show their collections. Many will conduct appraisals as well.

Begun in March 1984, the show’s mission is to provide great shopping in antiques of all styles.
“From tea towels to Tiffany, you'll find it at the Pier Show,” said organizer Jeanne Stella.

The show includes a vintage clothing and accessories section called Fashion Alley, and a rare books, prints, and ephemera section called Book Alley.

Saturday admission ($15) includes a courtesy pass to return on Sunday. College students with ID get in free on Sunday.

Organized by Stella Shows, the Pier show has taken place in New York for over 30 years.

Antiques-hunting Game Plan

With 500 exhibitors, the sheer amount of things to see can be intimidating. Show organizer Jeanne Stella recommends the following:

- When you arrive, pick up a floor map and mark out an itinerary and game plan.

- Remember to bring ample cash. Some exhibitors take credit but don’t count on it.

- Bring a shopping tote. Large items can be shipped but small items like jewelry and figurines need to be packaged and carried.

- On Sunday, take advantage of free side street parking rather than trying to park near the pier.

- Bring measuring tape and a blueprint of your rooms if you are potentially buying décor or furniture. Do this even if you think you won’t be, just in case you come across something. Also bring paint chips for reference.