Eight of the nearly 10 antique stores in Picayune have opted to have their names featured in a brochure that will entice shoppers to seek out antiques during the entire month of March.

Picayune Main Street Director Reba Beebe said this is the first time Picayune has had the most participating antique stores on the trail, which entails an annual membership fee of $300. It is called Mississippi Antiques Trail.

In previous years the city of Natchez, Miss. would have the most participating stores.

With the popularity of antique shops making a comeback, Beebe said the exposure Picayune will receive from the publicity will be a boon to the market.

To her recollection, Picayune has about 100,000 square foot of retail space dedicated to the sale of antiques and collectibles.

Within the state of Mississippi, there are 51 members listed as participating in the trail this year.

Another event that will be beneficial to local antique dealers is the upcoming sidewalk sale being organized by Picayune Main Street. It is set for Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Businesses participating in the antique trail include Barzé Antiques and Collectibles Mall, Crystal Gallery of Picayune, Gibson House Antiques, Junk in our Trunk, Memory Lane Vintage and Collectibles, Shades of the Past, The Glass Porch, and Treasures and More Inc.

Antiques can also be found at Rustic Elegance and Angel’s Place.