The Do's and Don'ts of Flea Market Shopping

     

    Flea markets are often a treasure trove of great items with friendly vendors and attractions to see. But going to one with limited knowledge and experience can prove to be disastrous. In order to help any newcomers or even experienced visitors, we've decided to put together a list of what to do and what not to do during your next flea market shopping spree! 

1. Do Make a Plan Before You Go    

            A majority of a first-timers trip through a flea market is browsing up and down every aisle peeking into each booth to see what's available. While this isn't necessarily a bad thing, especially if you love to browse, but in regards to efficiency it's not a great idea. One of the best ways to combat this, is grab a map before you venture off! Maps will generally be available online or just pick one up when you arrive. Holmes County Flea Market has an expertly laid out map on it's website chock full of details to make your shopping experience as easy a possible.  

       2. Don't Be Afraid to Barter

            It may be a little nerve-wracking at first to ask for a lower price on a product from a vendor. The worst they can say is no, while the best outcome would be a lower price for a product you really want. The trade-off is in your favor. A curated shop owner is usually trying to get rid of his supply as to not bring it back home. So the odds of you getting a good deal, especially close to closing is much higher than if you went to a shop owner who can order from a catalogue to keep his inventory stocked. 

        3. Do Shop At Different Vendors Before Buying Any Items

             Flea markets are notorious for selling the exact same things in different shops, for different prices. A majority of the time, the higher priced items are located closer to the door. Always scout the market before buying an item because you never know what vendors prices are and you may get a better deal than just buying from the first vendor you come across. 

    These are just a few do's and don'ts that will help you greatly on your next trip to a flea market. In Ohio, Holmes County Flea Market is the premier flea market for visitors. Various vendors and attractions are on the market for adults and children alike to experience. Visit our website or stop in back around March when we reopen for the 2021 season.

A Few Things to Do in Amish Country Ohio

    

    Holmes County, Ohio is home to the world's largest Amish settlement. Situated about halfway between both Columbus and Cleveland, Amish Country seems hidden away from the hustle and bustle of city life. While it lacks the bright lights and unpredictable chaos of downtown city life, Ohio's Amish Country has it's own charms. From all the attractions, historical landmarks to the restaurants and farms, you won't be able to see everything it has to offer in even a week. Visiting Holmes Country Flea Market is a must for us, but we wanted to share some of our other favorite places to visit.

   Hershberger's Farm & Bakery

 

    Hershberger's Bakery has all the Amish goods you would come to expect from pies to various canned goods. In the farm section, you can find products that will delight your children such as Amish dolls and wooden farm toys. For the adults, you have leather goods, homegrown seasonal produce and a large assortment of flowers that can overwhelm your senses. A free family petting zoo is also available on site and is an absolute delight for all members of the family.  

   The Farm at Walnut Creek 

    

    One of our absolute favorites on the list is The Farm at Walnut Creek. Combining an exotic animal farm with a working farm is sure to be a unique experience for visitors. After feeding a giraffe or even a zebra, you will likely interact with something you're more familiar with, like a goat. An Amish-led tour of about 2.3 miles by horse & buggy is always a good time if the weather permits it. One thing to keep in mind is that The Farm is closed every Sunday and they do not accept debit or credit cards.

   

   Holmes County Open Air Art Museum 

    The Holmes County Open Air Art Museum is a fusion of nature and art set within a majestic landscape of lush forest and rolling hillsides. Spread throughout the grounds of The Inn at Honey Run, the regions only Open Air Art Museum showcases original works from local and regional artists of various backgrounds, mediums and disciplines. The trails are a great group activity for people of all ages. 

    

    If you are planning a trip to Ohio's Amish Country, we hope you take these suggestions to heart. They are all worth your time and can create majestic memories for members of your family! 

Christmas Shopping at the Flea Market!

     It is finally December and with that we can finally usher in the Christmas shopping season! We love buying gifts for our family and friends, and we think that you do too, so we are going to give you a few gift-giving ideas from our awesome vendors at The Original Holmes County Flea Market!

Map of where all our vendors are located.

    When you are looking for the outdoorsperson in your life, check out 39 Outpost. They have outdoor style décor and yard decorations. They also have things for the sportsman who love fishing and more! If you aren't interested in the outdoors, they do have a few specialty items such as some black bear lamps that are very cute, yet also could be terrifying at night if you forgot that you bought them! 

    One of our featured vendors is Gifted Hands Reflexology who offers relaxation methods and products for tired, achy hands and feet. Lasting only 20 minutes,  come sit and relax with wonderful hot towels and sweet, pure Young Living Essential Oils to put your mind at ease. Soft music will also be played to give you the ultimate experience on cloud 9. Perfect stress reliever if you're feeling overwhelmed this holiday season. 

    Books are always a welcome gift for everyone of all ages. If you have a book-lover in your family or friend group. don't hesitate to stop by Beautiful Books and see their selection! From new to gently-used books and collection books, you should be able to find that special book for that special someone. This year, they are also offering book themed puzzles and Journals. We're proud to work with such a great company that has been gleefully serving the public since the 1980s. 

    You wear T-shirts don't you? Well, we at least hope you do. Stop by D's Tees, your one stop T-Shirt shop for all your T-Shirt needs. They have something for everyone ranging from babies to grandparents. Offering a wide selection of T-Shirts, Sweatshirts, Onesies, Totes and more, you'll be overwhelmed from all their choices! Multiple colors and sizing to choose from as well so don't hesitate to visit the D's Tee's booth to get a one-of-a-kind shirt for Christmas.

     The Original Holmes County Flea Market  is proud to support these local vendors and we hope to see all of our local communities supporting them as well this holiday season. Feel free to call us at (330) 893-0900 to ask about any of our services or questions about special offers we may have going on. 

    

Best Flea Markets In Ohio

 Flea markets are popular throughout the state of Ohio. Ohio offers a wide range of flea markets to visit and is popular among many people in the area. The literal translation of A flea market (or swap meet) is a type of street market that provides space for vendors to sell previously-owned (second-hand) merchandise. Flea markets are widely known to offer many types of vendors to encourage visitors of all preferences and hobbies to visit. 

One well-known flea market in Ohio is The Original Holmes County Flea Market. This market offers over 40 vendors as well as an antique wing and several restaurants. This market is local to Ohio Amish country and provides a clean and safe shopping environment for visitors of all ages. Past visitors mention The Original Holmes County Flea Market as one of their favorite locations due to the wide range of vendors and shopping options.

When choosing a trip to Amish Country, you won't want to miss one of the best flea markets in Ohio, conveniently located in downtown Berlin, Ohio. What makes this flea market unique is not only the vast amount of second-hand goods and antiques but also the wide range of new goods

and gifts. Visitors mention this flea market in Ohio a great place to shop for the holidays, as well as birthdays and special occasions. 

The Orignal Holmes Country Flea Market also offers many events throughout the year including a car show, giveaways, ice cream socials, and many more experiences to delight. Famously known for their local Amish cooking at their restaurant located conveniently inside the flea market, visitors and tourists often choose to plan a day at the flea market in Ohio.

If you enjoy antiques, shopping, and Amish cooking, we suggest visiting The Original Holmes County Flea Market. Once there, you will find a map of their large location to easily walk and enjoy the many vendors. With over 80,000 square feet of new and used goods, every person visiting the flea market can find something they enjoy. 

To learn more about the market visit their website here: http://www.holmesfleamarket.com/contact-us/.

A Fall Weekend in Amish Country, Ohio

We have all had quite the year, haven't we? I'm not sure about you, but I definitely need a vacation! Now is the perfect time to come to Amish Country in Ohio. The weather is not hot anymore, and the snow hasn't yet started falling either. The colors of fall are starting to show and you can see the Amish out working their fields for harvest. It's just a really peaceful time, and isn't a little peace what we are all seeking right now?

Let's plan out a sample fall weekend in Amish Country that you can follow exactly or let your eyes carry you where they will when you get here! We recommend that you check for availability and make reservations if necessary beforehand!

First, coming in on a Friday evening, you'll be hungry and ready for a great meal. Lucky for you, we have no shortage of great places to eat! Feed whatever craving you have.

We have tons of places to spend the night in Amish Country too! Want a bed and breakfast, we got 'em! Want a luxurious hotel? We have it. Want a secluded romantic cabin? It's just a few clicks away for reservations!

Saturday morning and you've got a hankering for a big breakfast! Try the Honey Bee Café and Bakery,  known for their award winning Honey Walnut Baklava. But don't stop there, you've got to try their delicious specialty drinks and made-from-scratch baked goods! 

Now, it's time to walk off that breakfast with a stroll through Millersburg. We can't even list all the unique boutiques you'll see because there are so many. Needless to say, you'll have a blast and you'll be hungry again before you know it!

Spend your Saturday afternoon at The Original Holmes County Flea Market. Start with lunch at the Flea Market's exclusive Amish Wedding Cafe. Then, with over 60 vendors to see, you'll be able to find everything you want from unique treats and snacks, to clothing, home decor and seasonal items that you can only find during the fall. Plus, don't forget the Amish Pickers Antique Mall that is part of the Flea Market! Find your next great treasure there.

Saturday night and what to do? If you think we shut down at 5, no way! Grab a couple tickets to the Amish Country Theater and laugh your head off to their hilarious antics. Your kids will love it and you'll love their clean comedy. Note: you can order tickets ahead of time, but you will be seated as "best available" when you arrive to comply with COVID-19 social distancing guidelines.

After another great night's sleep, it's time to enjoy the quiet because on Sunday almost all of Amish Country is closed for a day of rest. There are no shortage of trails to take you through the beautiful countryside from Holmes County Rails To Trails.

The Original Holmes County Flea Market can still take groups, but you need to call ahead! Ready to plan your bus group trip to Amish Country, Ohio, but not sure where to start? We are now taking reservations for bus groups. We specialize in groups of any sizes and can help you book your trip. 

Ask about our discounted rates and coupons for our bus groups! For more information and discount rates, call us at 330-893-0900.

Finding Great Antiques!

Ever wonder how some people get those fantastic (and valuable) antique finds? It takes time, a good eye, and a little bit of RADAR! We'll explain the acronym in this blog.

Rarity

What makes something a rarity? That kind of sounds like a silly question, but it actually is not. If no one else on your block owns one, you know that it’s worth something. If no one in your zip code has one, it might be worth even more. And if no one in your area code has one, chances are, you have a piece that’s pretty valuable.

Of course, something might be rare because it just didn’t make it in the marketplace. The piece might be too large, too loud, or too ugly. Still, if you like it, well, this aspect of rarity can work to your advantage.

Aesthetics

This is a branch of philosophy that deals with the nature of beauty and taste, as well as the philosophy of art. When you can look at an item without wanting to change anything, when all the elements of it blend together in perfect harmony, and when it has an overall pleasing appearance, then that item really has it in the aesthetics department.

Desirability

How much is this item in demand? Items from Tiffany's have a large desirability, but this is one where trends are key. Pay attention to what styles, colors or brands people want.

Authenticity

This one is where it might be a little more difficult to know. Is that lamp a real Tiffany or is it a knock-off from China? Part of the mystery and fun of antiques is separating truth from fiction. As technology and the ability to reproduce items become more advanced, identifying the authentic antique becomes more difficult. Study up on books and pictures of actual pieces so you'll get good at recognizing the real thing.

An object with a Tiffany signature is worth more than an object without one. However, a signature is not in itself enough to authenticate a piece. Here’s where your specialization comes in: You need to know the types of pieces Tiffany made — the texture of the glass, the colors, and the styles — and make sure that all the elements make sense before you can believe the signature.

Really Great Condition

Here’s the rule as far as value goes: The less that was done to the original item to alter it, the more it’s worth. That is, the fewer the additions or deletions over the years, the better.

Flea markets are a great place to find antique items, and our Amish Pickers Antique Mall at The Original Holmes County Flea Market is a paradise of antiques! Antiquers are often found wandering through looking for items. Smaller pieces of furniture, hand tools, dolls, toys and dinnerware are common antique items that can be found at flea markets. The prices are also usually much less than what you’d pay at an antique store.

Ready to plan your bus group trip to Amish Country, Ohio, but not sure where to start? We can still take groups, but you need to call ahead! We are taking reservations for bus groups. We specialize in groups of any sizes and can help you book your trip. Ask about our discounted rates and coupons for our bus groups!

For more information and discount rates, call us at 330-893-0900.

Why Going to the Flea Market is So Much Fun!

You are probably reading this blog because you like flea markets already, so we're going to talk about some of your favorite things! Feel free to drop a comment about why you love The Original Holmes County Flea Market!

1. Bargains. This is generally the main reason people live for going to flea markets. They are looking for bargains. That is the big selling point of flea markets. They’re similar to a giant garage sale with all the items organized on different tables. Some of the vendors are selling new items but many of them are selling used items in good condition.

3. Variety. You never know what you are going to find at The Original Holmes County Flea Market but you can be guaranteed that the products will cover a wide spectrum. You’ll usually find clothes, housewares, décor items, tools, toys, books, antiques and crafts. What is found on those tables one week will be totally different than what you might find another week. So the variety that exists is also always changing.

4. Collectibles. Collectors of all types of items will be found roaming through flea markets. They’re looking for rare pieces and parts that can’t be found anywhere else. For auto enthusiasts it may be a hood ornament or another original piece for their current restoration project in the antiques area. Dinnerware collectors are looking pieces to finish out their sets. Art collectors are looking for that rare piece of pottery or a painting of great value that has yet to be discovered. We also have vendors selling sports memorabilia and more.

5. Antique lovers. Flea markets are a great place to find antique items, and our Amish Pickers Antique Mall is a paradise of antiques! Antiquers are often found wandering through looking for items. Smaller pieces of furniture, hand tools, dolls, toys and dinnerware are common antique items that can be found at flea markets. The prices are also usually much less than what you’d pay at an antique store.

6. Food! We would be remiss if we didn't talk about food, because we have a lot of it. Between vendors with wonderful Amish canned goods, popcorn of all flavors, candy, snacks...there's just too many delicious things to list. You will definitely find that one-of-a-kind flavor or a brand new favorite treat when you come to the Flea Market.

Ready to plan your bus group trip to Amish Country, Ohio, but not sure where to start? We can still take groups, but you need to call ahead! We are taking reservations for bus groups. We specialize in groups of any sizes and can help you book your trip. Ask about our discounted rates and coupons for our bus groups!

For more information and discount rates, call us at 330-893-0900.

Come Visit Ohio's Amish Country! We Are Open!

It has been a rough spring for everyone...pretty much all around the world. The COVID-19 pandemic came along and shut everything down just as spring was starting to show. In May, businesses and restaurants in Ohio have gradually begun to open. Amish Country, Ohio, has been no different. While our businesses were closed (you can't stop spring planting and other necessary farm work from happening!) for a couple months, Amish Country is starting burst forth again with life.

Visiting Amish Country will look a little different for the time being with necessary health precautions as directed by Governor Mike DeWine and Director of Ohio's Department of Health Amy Acton. Since every business has made their own determinations about what they feel safest about (or have the ability to do), it is a good idea to call ahead to ask about what to expect when visiting and plan ahead for your day. You don't want to show up to your favorite Amish Country shop or restaurant only to find out they have limited hours and you just missed them!

These are the restaurant guidelines handed down by the state, but be aware individual businesses could have more stringent guidelines.

• Symptomatic customers are not allowed in any establishment.
• Dine-in places must allow for social distancing between parties.
• Maximum party size is 10.
• Self-service buffets are prohibited.
• Encourage reservations (this is why planning ahead is a GREAT idea!).
• Encourage masks, except for when eating.

Here are retail store guidelines, and again each business may have their own interpretation, so be aware and be considerate!

• Symptomatic customers are not allowed in any establishment.
• Limit capacity to 50% of the fire code. (this means a store could be open, but full and you might have to wait to get in.).
• Ensure 6 ft social distancing in lines.
• Specify hours for at-risk clientele.
• No food samples or self-service food stations.
• Food courts are closed (this does include the seating area at The Original Holmes County Flea Market.).
• Encourage masks, but they are not required by patrons. Employees are required.

If you have questions about how to protect yourself, the Ohio Department of Health (OHD) can provide answers. The ODH call center can be reached at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634). ODH staffers operate the center seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, including weekends. Call center staff includes licensed nurses and infectious disease experts. They are available to answer questions and provide accurate information about COVID-19, the risk to the public, and the state’s response.

The Original Holmes County Flea Market can still take groups, but you need to call ahead! Ready to plan your bus group trip to Amish Country, Ohio, but not sure where to start? We are now taking reservations for bus groups. We specialize in groups of any sizes and can help you book your trip. 

Ask about our discounted rates and coupons for our bus groups! For more information and discount rates, call us at 330-893-0900.

 

New Health Guidelines for Visiting the Flea Market

We are so excited that The Original Holmes County Flea Market will be reopening Thursday, May 14th! However, it is our highest concern to keep you and our vendors and staff safe and healthy. We have put into place new healthy guidelines so that everyone can enjoy the flea market safely!

1. There are posts on the main entrance doors encouraging everyone to wear a mask. We do realize that it is a personal choice, so it is not a mandate and no one will be removed from the flea market for not wearing one.

2. Roster's Roasters will offer a limited selection of pork rinds, but they will not be serving ice cream at this time.

3. Blessings Cafe will offer a limited take out menu.

4. We will be putting all cafeteria tables and chairs off to the side to help eliminate social gatherings.

5. We expect everyone to follow safe "social distancing" and stay at least 6 feet apart while waiting at a cash register or browsing the aisles.

6. We will be placing hand sanitizers around.

7. We ask customers and guests not to enter if symptomatic.

We will also be conducting daily health assessments to make sure our staff is healthy for work. We will clean and sanitize surfaces throughout day and at the close of business or between shifts.

Regretfully, we have to let you know that in order to keep physical contact down, we have cancelled all of the market giveaways, the car show, and Fall Fest. We are still looking to plan these events for our 2021 season.

If you have questions about how to protect yourself, the Ohio Department of Health (OHD) can provide answers. The ODH call center can be reached at 1-833-4-ASK-ODH (1-833-427-5634). ODH staffers operate the center seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, including weekends. Call center staff includes licensed nurses and infectious disease experts. They are available to answer questions and provide accurate information about COVID-19, the risk to the public, and the state’s response.

We can still take groups, but you need to call ahead! Ready to plan your bus group trip to Amish Country, Ohio, but not sure where to start? We are now taking reservations for bus groups. We specialize in groups of any sizes and can help you book your trip. Ask about our discounted rates and coupons for our bus groups!

For more information and discount rates, call us at 330-893-0900.

Amish Country Food

One thing that Amish Country, Ohio is never in short supply of is FOOD! From down-home Amish cooking to wineries and chocolatiers, you will find exactly what you are craving when you visit. This blog is going to introduce you to a few of our favorites, and it is by no means an extensive list. So do not be afraid to try another place that is not on this list. We know you will leave Amish Country satisfied!

Guggisberg Cheese

1. Guggisberg Cheese, Inc. This world famous and award-winning dairy is renowned for their premium Swiss and original Baby Swiss cheeses. If you don't find a favorite cheese here, then it doesn't exist! It's located at 5060 State Route 557 Millersburg, Ohio 44654.

2. Troyer's Country Market If you were looking for the perfect store to find all your Amish Country favorites, as far as the edible ones go, this is the place you must go! Troyer's proudly carries many of the places that we mention in this blog, along with their own delicious foods. Fresh butter, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and more are found in abundance here. They are located at 5201 CR 77 Millersburg, OH 44654

Troyer's Country Market

3. Walnut Creek Cheese Another market filled to the brim with deliciousness! Walnut Creek makes their own cheeses, and has a fresh meat market. But what is probably their biggest draw is the HUGE ice cream cones they sell. So if you need an ice cream fix, stop by 2641 State Route 39 Walnut Creek, OH 44687. They also have a location in Berlin as well!

Roster's Fudge at The Original Holmes County Flea Market

4. And don't forget the food vendors at our very own The Original Holmes Country Flea Market!  Spend the day with us. Shop over 300 local vendors with unique items, sweets and treats, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Visit our 2,000 square foot antique wing for authentic antiques, collectibles, and vintage finds. After a fun filled day of shopping enjoy lunch at our full service cafe. Take a seat in our large dining room and enjoy a sweet treat. We're located at 4550 SR 39 Berlin, OH 44654.


Ready to plan your bus group trip to Amish Country, Ohio, but not sure where to start? We are now taking reservations for bus groups. We specialize in groups of any sizes and can help you book your trip. Ask about our discounted rates and coupons for our bus groups!

For more information and discount rates, call us at 330-893-0900.

Holmes County Flea Market 101

We are so proud of the way The Original Holmes County Flea Market has grown over the years! It's exciting to see new and wonderful vendors find their home with us. We also love it when our beloved return guests bring new friends with them to experience all that we have to offer!

But what if you are new to the Holmes County Flea Market? What should you expect? This little blog post is going to be your primer on how to have the most fun at the flea market!

First of all, you've got to be prepared. We open at 9 a.m., so if you are coming right away in the morning, you want to make sure you had a great breakfast! There are many delicious restaurants in Amish Country that you can be sure to find one that suits your tastes! Wear comfortable shoes. The flea market does have a large dining area where you can find a place to rest, but this is probably not the place where you want to wear your stylish stilettos!

Second, don't rush! We like to use a food analogy when talking about shopping (because we love both!). Some stores you go into are like a butcher or a baker, you find one specialized good there, so it's a pretty quick trip. Just in and out. The Holmes County Flea Market, however, is like the biggest buffet ever! We don't recommend you trying to take it all in in one trip! You'll be overwhelmed! 

We have so many awesome vendors (over 300!), that if you try to get to all of them in one day, you will definitely run out of time! To continue the food metaphor, take the time to savor all the flavors at the flea market. Browse each one of our vendors. You'll be amazed that the selection of goods you will find!

Ready to plan your bus group trip to Amish Country, Ohio, but not sure where to start? Visit The Original Holmes Country Flea Market and spend the day with us. Shop over 300 local vendors with unique items, sweets and treats, and one of a kind gifts. Visit our 2,000 square foot antique wing for authentic antiques, collectibles, and vintage finds. After a fun filled day of shopping enjoy lunch at our full service cafe. Take a seat in our large dining room and enjoy a sweet treat. We are now taking reservations for bus groups. We specialize in groups of any sizes and can help you book your trip. Ask about our discounted rates and coupons for our bus groups!

For more information and discount rates, call us at 330-893-0900.

Exciting Changes Are Coming to Holmes County Flea Market

Holmes County Flea Market is opening again for the 2020 season on March 5th, and we can hardly wait! We have so many wonderful new things to share with you. We are completely revamping and remodeling the flea market. We will have fabulous, unique new items in the antique mall. We are welcoming new vendors, and we have some fun events planned! So many great things are happening at Holmes County Flea Market, and we are counting down the days until we can welcome our customers back to show off the awesome changes and additions.

Exciting changes are coming soon to Holmes County Flea Market! 

Let’s talk about our first couple of events that are coming soon! To celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, we are having a Winning the Green $50 Flea Buck Shopping Spree on Saturday, March 14th! Participating is easy. Simply, visit Holmes County Flea Market and shop with any of our vendors.

For each purchase, you will earn tickets:

Purchases of $1 to $20 = 1 ticket
Purchases of $20 to $40 = 2 tickets
Purchases of $40 to $60 = 3 tickets
Purchases of $60 to $80 = 4 tickets

You will receive these tickets from our vendors. Fill them out completely with your information and submit them in the container at our information desk for your chance to win $50 in Flea Bucks.
In August, we are hosting our annual car show! Join us on Saturday, August 22nd. The first 100 cars will receive dash plaques. There will be giveaways, trophies, t-shirts, music, a 50/50 drawing, food, and fun. All proceeds will go directly to the Alzheimer’s Association. Registration for this event will be from 10am to noon, and the cost per car is $15 to enter. Additional donations are also encouraged! The show will be from noon until 3pm. All are welcome to join us, and we hope to see you there! It is sure to be a fun-filled day.

For more information about these exciting changes and additions, stay tuned to our social media accounts. Follow us on Instagram at @hcfleamarket and like us on Facebook! See you soon, friends!

Holmes County Forge is Coming in Spring 2020

Holmes County Flea Market is thrilled to soon become the home to the Holmes County Forge! We will release more details this spring. Forge Visitors will be able to experience of watching an old-world craft firsthand. Twice a month, the Forge will offer knife-making and blademithing demonstrations.

Bladesmithing is an old art form that has been returning to popularity with the television show on the History Channel, Forged in Fire. This art is thousands of years old and found in cultures as diverse as China, Japan, India, Germany, Korea, the Middle East, Spain and the British Isles. If you have never seen anything like bladesmith, we encourage you to come visit Holmes County Forge to see these incredible, live demonstrations!

Mark your calendars for spring of 2020 for the arrival of Holmes County Forge! 

Watching someone create a knife by hand is quite an entertaining event. Additionally, the likelihood of finding this kind of demonstration anywhere else in the area is not high. So, this one-of-a-kind craft is special, and we look forward to sharing it with you.

Surely, you will notice that the detail that goes into each step is what makes it so unique and awe-inspiring. The bladesmith starts with raw steel and forms a rough shape with only fire, an anvil, and a hammer. From there, the blade profile is refined, and the blade bevels are brought to life on a belt grinder. The next step is the quench where the knife is hardened. Finishing varies according to application and can be a painstaking process.

From beginning to end, knife-making will be taking place right here at Holmes County Flea Market! As you plan your spring trip to Ohio’s beautiful rolling hills of Amish Country, do not forget to schedule a visit to Holmes County Flea Market to check out the new Holmes County Forge! As we have more information, we will be sure to share it with you on our Facebook page and Instagram profile, so make sure that you are following us closely on social media. We can’t wait to share the amazing craft of bladesmithing and Forge demonstrations with you.

More Things to do While in Amish Country

Ohio’s Amish Country offers so many things to do and places to explore. You could visit for a week and still not cover all the attractions, historical sites, and restaurants. Of course, visiting Holmes County Flea Market is on the top of our list, but we’re sharing a few of our other favorite things to do in Amish Country, Ohio to help you make the most of your trip.

The Farm at Walnut Creek – a working Amish farm that is also home to hundreds of exotic animals, a wonderful produce stand and a gift shop. Great for all ages and groups. Located at 4147 Co Road 114 in Sugarcreek.

The German Culture Museum — The museum is home to an impressive collection of area memorabilia and displays of Amish, German and Swiss heritage. Focusing specifically on the history and settlement of Holmes County and Walnut Creek Township. Great for all ages, although mindfulness of the artifacts is required. Located at 4877 Olde Pump Street in Walnut Creek.

Killbuck Marsh Wildlife Area – a wonderful scenic wetland and wildlife preserve area that has places for fishing, and camping as well as walking and enjoying wildlife. Located at 1691 Centerville Road in Shreve.

Age of Steam Roundhouse — The Age of Steam Roundhouse, Sugarcreek, Ohio, United States, is a private roundhouse housing steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars and other railroad equipment. Located at 213 Smokey Land Road SW in Sugarcreek.

The Holmes County Open Air Art Museum — The Holmes County Open Air Art Museum is a fusion of nature and art set within a majestic landscape of lush forest and rolling hillsides. Spread throughout the grounds of The Inn at Honey Run, the region’s only Open Air Art Museum showcases original works from local and regional artists of various backgrounds, mediums and disciplines. Great for groups and all ages. Located at 6920 County Road 203 in Millersburg.

Little Known Facts about Amish Culture

1. Amish first came to Ohio in 1808. Today there are nearly 60,000 Amish living in Ohio.

2. Holmes County is the center of Ohio's Amish community. Holmes County and the neighboring 6 counties are home to over 30,000 individuals and 227 church districts.

3. The Holmes County area is the most diverse settlement of Amish Culture.

4. Most Amish followers speak what is referred to as Low German or Pennsylvania Dutch, which is traditional Amish language derived from Germon, Spanish, and Portuguese.

5. School normally ends at 8th grade. From there, children go directly into their life of work. Schoolrooms are traditionally one room and lead by a teacher who is unmarried young women.

6. Although their lives are faith based, Amish followers do not get baptized until at least the age of 16 but may be as late as 25. It is their own decision, and if they chose against baptism they are asked to leave The Church.

7. Those who leave the church are excommunicated and shunned from their family. Nearly 90% of teens decide to stay with the church, however.

8. Amish men stop shaving their beards after they get married, however, usually he will still have to shave his mustache.

9. Ladies have very limited wardrobe, normally no more than just 5 clothing sets.

10. Many dolls in an Amish home are faceless. This is to deter vanity and to show children that everyone is beautiful in the eyes of God.

Finding Treasure in Flea Markets

Flea Markets and Antique Shops can be a little overwhelming for people who don’t spend much time in them. There are so many things to look at in such little time! How do I find what I’m looking for? What if I don’t know what I’m looking for but don’t want to miss anything? A good flea market is home to a lot of unique items and we want to make sure you don’t miss a hidden gem. How do you find that hidden flea market treasure? Here’s 6 steps to finding your own flea market treasure.

1. 1. Come well-rested. Flea Markets have a lot to look at, and tend to involve a lot of walking. Getting tired out and leaving early or not digging as well halfway through can mean you miss out on something cool.
2. 2. Be there early. From beating the crowds to getting in before things get picked through and messy being early will pay off. It also gives you more time to look through all the goods.
3. 3. Be open-minded. Just because a booth doesn’t look like it will have something you're looking for, doesn’t mean it won’t – it’s called hidden treasure for a reason.
4. 4. Know your flea market. Familiarize yourself with the way the market works and how it’s laid out. If you plan on shopping there frequently, building a relationship with the vendors can also be beneficial.
5. 5. Make at least two passes. Try to walk from both directions. You don’t realize how much you could miss in a single pass. You might see something hanging on the side of a vendor stall that you missed because you just perused past it.

Holmes County Flea Market carries such a range of merchandise and has friendly vendors who want to help you find exactly what you came in for. If you’re planning a visit soon, check out our vendor map to get a game plan for your flea market treasure hunt!