See First Rugs at the East Hampton Antiques Show 2026

Cynthia First • July 7, 2026

Why First Rugs Returns to the East Hampton Antiques & Design Show Each Year


Every summer, collectors, interior designers, architects, and homeowners gather in the Hamptons for one of the Northeast's most anticipated celebrations of fine antiques and timeless design. The East Hampton Antiques & Design Show is more than a marketplace—it's an opportunity to discover exceptional craftsmanship, meet respected dealers, and experience the enduring beauty of objects with history.


At First Rugs, we're honored to once again be part of this remarkable tradition. Returning to the East Hampton Antiques & Design Show reflects our commitment to preserving the artistry of hand-knotted rugs while connecting with people who appreciate quality, authenticity, and enduring design.


Dog sitting beside “First Rugs” sign on colorful outdoor rug display at a market

What Is the East Hampton Antiques & Design Show?


The East Hampton Antiques & Design Show is the premier antiques and decorative arts event on Long Island's East End. Held annually on the grounds of Historic Mulford Farm in East Hampton, New York, the show brings together distinguished dealers from across the country specializing in antiques, decorative arts, garden pieces, vintage furnishings, fine textiles, artwork, and carefully curated design collections.


The 2026 event takes place:


  • Preview Cocktail Party: Friday, July 10, 2026 | 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM
  • Show Hours: Saturday, July 11 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Show Hours: Sunday, July 12 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM


This year's event is chaired by acclaimed interior designer Tom Scheerer and benefits the East Hampton Historical Society, an organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of East Hampton through its museums, educational programs, exhibitions, and historic properties.


The combination of exceptional exhibitors, beautiful surroundings, and support for historic preservation makes this one of the country's most respected antiques and design events.


Why Does First Rugs Participate Year After Year?


For us, this show represents much more than exhibiting beautiful rugs.


It brings together people who appreciate craftsmanship, history, and authentic design—values that have guided First Rugs from the beginning. Being invited to return each year is something we value because it allows us to share carefully selected hand-knotted rugs with an audience that understands the artistry behind every piece.


Many visitors come looking for something that cannot be mass-produced: a rug with character, history, and the ability to become part of a home's story for generations.


Those are exactly the kinds of pieces we love to discover and present.


Cynthia First behind hanging patterned rugs, with colorful pillows on the floor at Mulford Farmstead.

Why Are Antique Rugs a Natural Fit at a

Premier Antiques Show?


A thoughtfully chosen antique vintage rug often serves as the foundation for an entire room.


Whether paired with eighteenth-century furniture, mid-century modern design, contemporary art, or coastal interiors, hand-knotted rugs provide floor coverings that give warmth, texture, and authenticity that few furnishings can match.


Unlike many decorative accessories, an exceptional rug carries with it generations of craftsmanship. Every knot, natural dye, and subtle variation tells the story of the people and regions where it was woven.


Events like the East Hampton Antiques & Design Show celebrate this connection between artistry, history, and everyday living. Visitors can experience how antique rugs complement fine furniture, sculpture, lighting, ceramics, and architectural elements to create interiors that feel layered, collected, and timeless.


What Can Visitors Expect from First Rugs?


We'll be bringing a carefully curated selection of hand-knotted rugs from renowned weaving traditions around the world.


Visitors can expect to see exceptional examples of:


  • Antique Persian rugs
  • Turkish Oushak rugs
  • Serapi and Heriz rugs
  • Fine village and tribal weavings
  • Decorative rugs suited for both traditional and contemporary interiors


Each rug is selected for its craftsmanship, authenticity, condition, and lasting beauty.


Whether you're furnishing an entire home, searching for a statement piece, or simply enjoy learning about antique textiles, we always enjoy sharing the stories behind the rugs we bring.


A First Rugs trailer packed with rolled rugs going to the antiques fair.

Why Historic Settings Make the Experience Even More Special


Few venues are as fitting for an antiques show as Historic Mulford Farm.


Operated by the East Hampton Historical Society, the property is one of seven historic sites the organization preserves throughout East Hampton and Amagansett. Through museums, educational programs, exhibitions, lectures, tours, performances, publications, and the stewardship of nearly 20,000 historical artifacts, the Society helps preserve the region's remarkable heritage.


Hosting the Antiques & Design Show in this setting creates a meaningful connection between preservation, craftsmanship, and design.


Every exhibitor contributes to an event that celebrates history while supporting the Historical Society's ongoing mission.


We're proud to participate in an event that values preserving the past while inspiring today's collectors and designers.


Planning to Attend the East Hampton Antiques & Design Show?


If you're attending this year's event, we invite you to stop by the First Rugs booth.


Whether you're an experienced collector, an interior designer searching for the perfect foundation piece, or simply someone who appreciates exceptional craftsmanship, we'd love to meet you and introduce you to some remarkable hand-knotted rugs from around the world.


We look forward to another wonderful weekend celebrating timeless design, historic preservation, and the enduring artistry of fine rugs.


Visit First Rugs at the East Hampton Antiques & Design Show


If you can't attend the show, we invite you to explore our collection throughout the year at our Acton, Massachusetts showroom or our Boston SoWa Art + Design District location. Our team is always happy to help collectors, homeowners, and interior designers find exceptional hand-knotted rugs that bring lasting beauty and character to every space.


Frequently Asked Questions


  • Q: Where is the East Hampton Antiques & Design Show held?

    A: The show takes place each year at Historic Mulford Farm in East Hampton, New York, one of the historic properties maintained by the East Hampton Historical Society.

  • Q: Why does First Rugs participate in the East Hampton Antiques & Design Show?

    A: The show brings together collectors, interior designers, architects, and homeowners who appreciate authentic craftsmanship, fine antiques, and timeless design. It's an ideal setting to showcase exceptional hand-knotted rugs and connect with people who value quality and history.

  • Q: What kinds of rugs does First Rugs bring to the show?

    A: First Rugs typically exhibits a curated selection of antique Persian rugs, Turkish Oushak rugs, Serapi rugs, Heriz rugs, tribal weavings, and other distinctive hand-knotted rugs chosen for their craftsmanship, beauty, and authenticity.

  • Q: Can I purchase a rug at the show?

    A: Yes. Visitors can explore and purchase available rugs while speaking directly with the First Rugs team about each rug's history, construction, and care.

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