Melrose House will be hosting two antiques, crafts and collectables fairs on the following public holidays: 1 May (Worker's Day) and 16 December (Day of Reconciliation).

The significance of these fairs is that they accentuate one of the main purposes of the museum, namely the appreciation and preservation of historical and aesthetically beautiful objects. The kinds of objects on sale at the fairs match the Victorian ambiance of Melrose House.

In comparison with antique fairs in and around the city, the fairs at Melrose House are rated by dealers and visitors as one of the most extensive and highly regarded. Because of its success rate, other museums have started similar ventures, and it is seen as a challenge to maintain the high standard set by Melrose House.

The fairs are very popular, and 160 to 180 antique dealers have stalls there on a regular basis selling their wares to the public and other dealers. The dealers, who come from as far as KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape, sell merchandise dating back to before the 1970s, furniture, bric-a-brac, collectables, clothes, jewellery and much more. There are also arts and crafts dealers who sell beautiful homemade art items and curios, including African ornaments and accessories, in the garden of Melrose House.

The main objectives of the fairs are to:

• celebrate and commemorate Worker's Day and the Day of Reconciliation;
• accentuate the atmosphere and character of Melrose House;
• promote Melrose House as a museum and place of historical value;
• raise funds for the CTMM;
• give antique and crafts dealers the opportunity to sell their unique wares; and
• invite the public to enjoy a fun day while strolling through antique and crafts stalls.

The proceedings are very informal and there is no official programme. In general, the fairs start at 9:00 and end at 15:00. A live band usually entertains the visitors, and the valuation of antiques takes place. Visitors can go on a guided tour of Melrose House and view the Victorian rooms and exhibition of photos and cartoons on the Anglo-Boer War, archaeological excavations and the history of Melrose House. Tea and beer gardens and various fast-food stalls offer something to eat and drink. 

For enquiries and bookings, contact 012 322 0420/2805.