Stars, Stripes & Shopping: Red, White & Blue Fun in Canton

If you're looking for a Fourth of July weekend that goes way beyond the backyard barbecue, Canton has your whole itinerary covered. From world-class shopping to live country music, a classic small-town parade, a car show, and fireworks over the fairgrounds, this is the holiday weekend Texas does best.

July 2: Shop, Explore & Catch a Live Performance

First Monday Trade Days has been going strong since 1850, and with over 450 acres and thousands of vendors, it's grown into the largest outdoor flea market in the world. The July show runs July 2–5, so whether you're arriving early or heading home late, there's no shortage of time to dig through vintage finds, handmade goods, one-of-a-kind décor, and so much more. Bring a cart, wear comfy shoes, and come hungry because the food vendors don't disappoint either.

And if you're hitting the grounds on July 2nd, stick around for a little extra patriotic spirit! A rock band affiliated with the United States Air Force will be performing live on the grounds at 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, and 1:30 PM. It's the perfect way to kick off the holiday weekend with some American pride.

July 3: Roger Creager Live - Free Concert on the Grounds

Here's the headline: Roger Creager is coming to the west side of the First Monday Trade Days grounds on July 3rd, and it's a free concert.

For over 25 years, Roger Creager has been one of Texas country music's most beloved performers, a two-time Entertainer of the Year with over 250,000 albums sold and thirteen #1 singles on the Texas Music Chart. He co-wrote George Strait's "Sittin' On the Fence," has collaborated with Cody Johnson, Kevin Fowler, and Josh Abbott, and made his Grand Ole Opry debut in November 2023.

Expect a high-energy set full of the songs you know and love. All you need to bring is lawn chairs and your people. Parking is just $10.

July 4th: A Full Day of Patriotic Fun

Canton knows how to celebrate America's birthday. Here's how the day breaks down:

Morning: Downtown Canton

Kick things off at 9:30 AM with a Bicycle Decorating Contest. Deck out your ride in red, white, and blue and show off your patriotic spirit before the parade begins. At 10:00 AM, it's time for the Watermelon Eating Contest, a Canton Fourth of July tradition. Then at 10:30 AM, the Independence Day Parade rolls through downtown, with participants lining up at First Baptist Church of Canton. Spectators line the route for a classic small-town celebration that never gets old.

Evening: Back at the First Monday Grounds

Starting at 5:00 PM on the west side of the First Monday grounds, a Car Show takes over with classic and custom cars on full display as Canton gears up for the main event. Then at dark, cap off America's 250th birthday with a fireworks show over the First Monday grounds. Grab your spot early, this is one of Canton's biggest nights of the year!

Make It a Full Weekend Getaway

With four full days of shopping, live music, parades, car shows, food, and fireworks, there's genuinely no reason to squeeze this into a day trip. Hotels fill up fast, so if you're planning to stay over, lock in your room now.

Whether you're a longtime First Monday regular or making the trip for the first time, the Fourth of July weekend in Canton is the kind of holiday that makes the best memories. We'll see you there!