Third Monday Trade Days is a long standing event in McKinney that takes place the weekend before the third Monday of the month.

Basically, it is what we used to refer to in California as a "swap meet". Sellers from near and far rent a space from which they hawk their wares. People from near and far come to shop at the stalls that sell new and craft-type merchandise, or secondhand inexpensive goods. All this with a smattering of carnival food vendors thrown in the mix.

I've been one time, and it was interesting, although we didn't buy anything. Or perhaps David bought some shot glasses. It was nice to get out for an afternoon, one that didn't cost anything, other than the $3 to park the car.

Notable vendors featured antiques, salsas and other condiments (with samples), fruit, lawn equipment, gifty cruft of the unicorn variety.

Be careful driving along Highway 380 on Trade Days weekend, as Hwy 380 traffic can suddenly stop when vehicles turn into the grounds from the 60 MPH roadway. Ouch. This is a prime example of being slow to manage growth as the Third Monday Trade Days has been there "forever", hasn't changed, but the changing area has made it into a hazard. The city has grown up around it.

Anyway, this would be a fine way to spend a Friday afternoon, when the crowds are low and the merchandise is fresh.