Making A Mid-Mod Master Plan
How to do 20th Century Cincinnati like a pro
Whether you’re hunting for a show-stopping statement piece or just soaking in the eye candy, a little strategy goes a long way. Here’s how to make the most of your time on the floor.
GENERAL TIPS:
Buy your tickets ahead of time. All ticket prices go up the day of the show, and M3 ticket sales end Friday, February 13th at 11:59PM. Save money, buy your tickets today!
Wear comfortable shoes. You’re about to experience over 40,000 sq ft of stunning vintage modern finds, and you won’t want to miss a single inch of it!
THERE WILL BE A LINE WHEN DOORS OPEN AT EACH TICKETED TIME. Plan accordingly! Show up early! Lines form 30 minutes before each entry time.
Want to be one of the first ones in the door during your ticketed time? Show up early.
Rather avoid the line? Show up 30 minutes to an hour after your slated ticket time begins.
Grab an Official Guide to help you navigate the floor. With a full vendor map and a page for notes, this little book will certainly come in handy for your exhibition hall journey!
When to Shop
(Timing Is Everything)
Friday Night | Mid Mod Mixer = First Dibs
If you’re after rare, hard-to-find, or museum-worthy pieces, Friday night is your moment. Many of the best pieces do move early, and the Mid Mod Mixer offers first access in a capped, comfortable setting. It’s the calm before the storm, and where serious collectors love to shop.
Saturday | Come With a Game Plan
Saturday is our busiest day. If you’re attending during peak hours, we recommend targeting specific dealers or booths first (check the floor plan!). Early afternoon is lively and energetic; if you want a little more breathing room, 3–5 pm tends to slow down while still offering a great selection.
Sunday | The Sweet Spot for Deals
Sunday (especially later in the day) is when flexibility tends to happen. Dealers are often more open to conversation and pricing as the show winds down. If you’re bargain-minded or hoping to make something work, Sunday is a very smart return visit.
(Pro tip: many seasoned attendees shop twice: once to make must-have purchases and scout, returning Sunday.
How to Navigate the Floor
Start with the booths you don’t want to miss
Take notes (that notes page is there for a reason 😉)
Measure before you fall in love
If you don’t have a specific item in mind, don’t rush! Some of the best finds reveal themselves on a second pass
How to Talk to Dealers (Don’t Be Shy)
Our dealers are friendly, approachable, and incredibly knowledgeable, so feel free to ask questions! They’re happy to talk about designers, materials, condition, and authenticity.
Best times to catch dealers for conversations:
Friday night
Late Saturday
Sunday
That’s when things are calmer and dealers have more time to dig into details with you.
And rest assured: authenticity matters here. Our exhibitors take pride in what they bring, and transparency is part of the culture of this show.
Final Tip: Trust Your Instincts
If you love something and it checks your boxes, don’t overthink it…great pieces don’t linger forever. At the same time, part of the fun is the hunt. Enjoy it!