Canton First Monday Trade Days isn’t just a shopping haven for adults—it’s also a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities and attractions for kids and the whole family to enjoy. With over 5,000 vendors spread across more than 400 acres, there’s something for everyone, from fun, hands-on activities to exploring unique treasures. Here’s a guide to the family-friendly activities you can enjoy when visiting Canton’s iconic flea market.

Interactive Experiences for Kids

1. Petting Zoos and Animal Attractions

For families with younger children, Canton First Monday offers petting zoos and animal encounters. These are great places to let kids interact with friendly farm animals like goats, sheep, and rabbits. Kids can learn about animals and get up close to them, making for an educational and fun experience.

• What to Expect: Animals like goats, sheep, chickens, and pigs, often available for petting, feeding, or taking pictures.
• Why It’s Fun: These experiences are not only enjoyable but provide children with the chance to learn about animals and nature. They’ll love the hands-on opportunity to connect with the animals.

2. Face Painting and Balloon Art

Another popular feature at First Monday Canton for kids is face painting and balloon art. Many vendors set up booths where kids can get their faces painted or pick out a balloon creation. It’s a fun way to let your children get a bit of creative flair while also providing a memorable souvenir of your day at the market.

• What to Expect: Colorful face painting designs such as butterflies, superheroes, and animals. Balloon artists often create elaborate balloon sculptures like animals, hats, or swords.
• Why It’s Fun: The transformation that face painting creates can delight children, and balloon animals make a great take-home gift. These activities are lighthearted and sure to bring smiles to your little ones.

Fun for the Whole Family

3. Live Music and Performances

Canton First Monday Trade Days often features live music and performances that families can enjoy together. Whether it’s a local band playing folk, country, or bluegrass music, or a street performer showcasing their talents, the music adds a lively atmosphere to the market.

• What to Expect: Performances from local musicians, bands, and sometimes even magicians or jugglers. There are areas throughout the market where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the entertainment.
• Why It’s Fun: Live performances bring an exciting energy to the market and offer a fun break from shopping. It’s a great way for the whole family to unwind and enjoy some entertainment during your visit.

4. Vintage and Classic Car Shows

If your family enjoys a bit of nostalgia, Canton First Monday occasionally features vintage and classic car shows. These car shows display beautifully restored or rare classic cars from different eras, making it a great experience for automobile enthusiasts of all ages.

• What to Expect: A variety of classic cars, hot rods, and vintage vehicles on display. Vendors often provide the history and unique features of each vehicle.
• Why It’s Fun: For kids who love cars, this is a fantastic opportunity to get a close-up look at iconic vehicles and learn about car history. It’s also a treat for adults who appreciate craftsmanship and design.

Exploring Together

5. Treasure Hunts and Scavenger Hunts

For families who want a more interactive experience, creating a scavenger hunt is a fun way to explore the market. You can either create your own list of items to find, or some vendors and booths may offer pre-planned scavenger hunts. This activity keeps children engaged as they look for specific items around the market.

• What to Expect: A list of items to find or specific items to ask vendors about. Kids will love the thrill of the hunt while exploring the market.
• Why It’s Fun: A scavenger hunt is an excellent way to keep children involved and excited while you shop. It encourages teamwork and exploration, and the excitement of finding each item is sure to create lasting memories.

6. Antique Shopping with Kids

Although it may sound like a shopping activity more suited for adults, antique shopping at Canton can also be fun for kids! Many antique vendors sell old toys, books, and quirky treasures that may pique your children’s interest. You never know what unique finds you’ll come across that can spark curiosity in young minds.

• What to Expect: Vintage toys, retro games, old books, and rare collectibles that may appeal to kids.
• Why It’s Fun: Kids love discovering quirky and unusual items, and exploring antique booths can feel like stepping into another world. It’s also a great way to introduce them to history in a fun and hands-on way.

7. Outdoor Play Areas

Throughout Canton First Monday, you’ll find small outdoor play areas where kids can run around and let off some steam. These spaces are usually located near larger food courts or shaded areas, allowing kids to take a break from the busy shopping and enjoy some physical activity.

• What to Expect: Open spaces with play structures or playground equipment for younger children to enjoy.
• Why It’s Fun: After hours of walking and shopping, a play area gives kids a chance to run and play, which helps burn off some energy before heading to the next booth or vendor.

Tips for a Family-Friendly Day

Bring Snacks and Drinks

While Canton First Monday has plenty of food vendors, it’s a good idea to bring some snacks and water for your kids to keep them energized throughout the day. Make sure you stay hydrated and have some healthy options on hand to avoid meltdowns from hunger.

Use a Stroller or Wagon

Canton’s flea market is spread across a large area, so if you have toddlers or young children, consider bringing a stroller or renting a wagon. This will make it easier to move around, and it can be handy for storing your purchases as well.

Take Breaks and Rest

Shopping at Canton can be overwhelming, especially for young children. Be sure to take frequent breaks in shaded areas, sit down and relax, and let your kids rest so they don’t get overtired. There are plenty of benches and seating areas to make this easy.

Final Thoughts

Canton First Monday Trade Days offers a variety of family-friendly activities that make it a great destination for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for hands-on experiences, live entertainment, or a fun shopping adventure, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. With a little planning and a sense of adventure, you’ll create lasting memories while exploring the diverse and exciting offerings at Canton’s famous flea market.