Trash or Treasure?
Annual 50 Mile Garage Sale
In most parts of the United States, it is called a Garage Sale but, in the southeast, most refer to it as a Yard Sale and out west most refer to it as a Rummage Sale, but whatever you call it, it all adds up to fun and adventure! Garage Sales are not only about getting great deals they are also about finding treasures! My very wise Grandmother always said one person’s trash is another person’s treasure!
The Annual 50 Mile Garage Sale has been summer tradition for over 35 years in the Finger Lakes Region of Upstate New York. People travel from as far away as Canada, New England, Pennsylvania and even Ohio in search of a good deal. If love garage sales and enjoy bargain hunting this is the sale for you!
During the last full weekend in July, Route 90 takes on a festival atmosphere each year as friends, family members and the occasional family dog go searching for surprises. Stretching along the roadside of Route 90 – a Scenic New York State Byway the sale runs from Montezuma in the north to the Village of Homer at the southern end. Along the way you will find everything imaginable from antique andirons to zebra prints along with many other unexpected delights. This sale is the last full weekend in July and the official hours for the sale are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, rain or shine.
Here are some tips to help you navigate and snag the best bargains at any garage sale:
- Bring lots of change and small bills. Some sellers do not accept checks or credit, and very few people will have change for a 20 dollar bill, especially if your purchase is a few dollars or less.
- Be careful getting out of both sides of your car – there will be alot of traffic, roadside brush on the passenger side may disguise a ditch or drop-off.
- Inspect all items thoroughly before purchase, remember most items are sold as is and there are no returns.
- There may be stretches of no garage sales on the route, keep going, they will start up again.
- Be polite. The people who are hosting the garage sale are glad you’re there. Many of them have been collecting items to sell all year.
- For the best selection go early in the day and for the best bargains, go late in the day.
- Place a few boxes, bags, bungee cords, newspaper, tissue paper in your car so that you’re prepared to safely pack and transport any fragile items you buy. Clear out your car’s trunk to make space for your treasures.
- Wear sturdy comfortable shoes, dress for the weather and don’t forget the sunscreen!
- Even though you will find some vendors selling snacks and water along the way, I always like to carry a small cooler with water and a few snacks.
- Feel free to haggle but the general rule of thumb is, if it’s priced a dollar or less don’t haggle. Also, if you offer less than half an item’s asking price, you may insult the seller. If you’re buying several things, try offering a bulk price, this could get you a good discount.
Hope these tips help make your experience a great one.