Things to Do

Shop Local & Vintage at Austin’s Epic City Wide Garage Sale

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Tony Maples Photography

 

It is said that necessity is the mother of invention, and when a gasoline shortage struck in the late 1970s, consumers were in need of a creative way to save money and gas. And so Austin’s City Wide Garage Sale began on select weekends at the City Coliseum. Under one roof and climate controlled, garage-salers could buy, sell, and barter for second-hand goods and vintage finds without wasting gas garage sale hopping.

Cowboy Boots at City-Wide Garage Sale

Photo: Facebook/ City Wide Garage Sale

Over the years, the consumer’s search for unique antiquarian treasures molded the garage sale into a quality collector’s market. The City Wide Garage Sale has built up a following as assorted and diverse as the treasures sold at the event. Casual and curious browsers, thrifty college students, inspired costume and set designers, and enthusiastic antique collectors peruse the exhibitor booths for that perfect piece.

Vintage collectibles at City-Wide Garage Sale

Photo: Facebook/City Wide Garage Sale

Following the destruction of the coliseum in 2002, the Palmer Event Center was built in the heart of Austin and commenced hosting the anticipated vintage market once again. And while the venue may be modern, the goods aren’t. New commodities and crafts still can’t be found here, just a slightly used, accumulated allotment from those who help Keep Austin Weird.

Turquoise at City-Wide Garage Sale

Photo: Facebook/City Wide Garage Sale

The astounding exhibit of treasurable odds and ends can be still explored multiple times throughout the year, and not just in Austin. Popularity in the event demanded an expanded calendar. The Bastrop Convention Center and The Bell County Expo Center have been added to the line up so treasure hunters can rummage more frequently.

Vintage Cameras at City-Wide Garage Sale

Photo: Facebook/ City Wide Garage Sale

Upcoming events are October 22nd and 23rd at the Palmer Events Center in Austin with a $6 admission, October 29th and 30th at the Bastrop Convention Center in Bastrop with a $5 admission, and November 12th and 13th at the Bell County Expo Center in Belton with a $5 admission. Children 12 and under get in free. Interested in becoming a vendor or want more information? Check out their website or follow them on Facebook and Twitter. Ever found a gem at the City Wide Garage Sale? Share it with us!