Bargain hunters were out in force as Petersfield Festival Hall hosted its second Vintage, Antique and Militaria Fair of 2026 on Sunday, February 22.

The fair was established by Sara Hughes of Phoenix Antique Shop in 2020 and offers a mix of items under one roof, from vintage weapons to original Beatles prints, writes Marcus Fairweather.

The appeal of the event, which attracts professional and amateur traders from around the region, lies in its sheer range with veteran trader John remarking: “The whole world is represented here from Soviet Russia to Qin Dynasty China.”

“Military fairs on their own are very much a male-led thing,” said Sara, who opened her original shop in 2008.

“I found that by going to different fairs myself, that there was nothing there for the women and the ones that were there would look really bored so we decided to mix the three: the vintage, the antiques and militaria together.

“That way, you can come for your hand grenade and your guns and your lady can buy a dress. It’s a win-win all-round.’

Popular support has so far allowed the event to stay open, but Sara admits there’s been a downward trend in sales as traders struggle with the cost of-living crisis.

Sara added: “It’s a big ask for people to spend their hard-earned money but we hope that they will continue to do so because that allows us to thrive.

“There are 36 traders with us today, so that’s 36 businesses that will be supported by holding this fair.

“Without the people coming through the door, we couldn’t keep going because the only money we make is what we take on the door so we have to keep that footfall up for us and for the traders.”

The fair will next return on March 29, entry £2.