Will Garage and Yard Sales Happen in 2020: Adapting to New Norms

Garage and yard sales, a beloved tradition of community and recycling, continue to adapt in 2020 despite the challenges brought by the ongoing pandemic. While the number and visibility of in-person sales may be down, the spirit of swapping and selling used household items remains strong, but in different forms. This article explores the changes and innovations in garage and yard sales, highlighting how adaptability has led to new methods of conducting these sales.

The Shift to Online Platforms

While traditional garage and yard sales were popular in prior years, 2020 saw a significant shift towards online platforms. Neighborhoods and towns once blanketed with posterboard signs are now filled with active listings on social media and online marketplaces. For example, Facebook remained a prominent platform, with local pages dedicated to garage sales and swapping events. In my area, several Facebook groups regularly feature listings from nearby towns.

One of the most notable innovations is the virtual garage sale. Instead of physical displays, sellers post detailed photos and descriptions of their goods. For instance, I recently sold a set of two flashlights on a local Facebook group. Initially, the post was flagged by Facebook as presenting a "weapon," despite being clear that the flashlights were regular, non-lethal items. After explaining the situation with a snapshot of my denial, a friend from high school bought the set, illustrating the continued adaptability of these sales in a digital environment.

Adapting to Social Distancing

The largely digital approach has not only continued the spirit of these sales but also adapted to the need for social distancing. Many of my neighbors are opting for porch pickup, where potential buyers can visit and take items at a safe distance. This method ensures that the exchange remains compliant with stay-at-home orders while still connecting people with useful and loved objects.

Vintage and specialty items are also benefiting from this shift. A neighbor, for example, has been conducting a virtual garage sale, posting pictures and selling collections of smaller items. One collection boasted a variety of kitchen tools, while another offered a range of pens and stationery. These individual listings help create a unique shopping experience and cater to niche markets within the community.

Community Giving and Free Items

While the focus remains on selling, a new trend of giving away free items has also emerged. In driveways and on porches, boxes filled with books to exchange and surplus garden produce are becoming more common. This community spirit of sharing and supporting neighbors is particularly poignant during the pandemic, where many have found themselves with extra time and resources.

However, for many, the challenge lies in maintaining the habit of decluttering and contributing to these community sales. Postponed annual extra trash pickups have meant that people with items to sell are struggling with storage. In these cases, many are opting to donate their items rather than holding a yard sale, which is a positive step towards reducing clutter and supporting local charities.

Supporting Local Economies

While these changes have evolved, the core purpose of garage and yard sales—supporting local communities and contributing to the economy—remains intact. As I plan my own sales, I encourage others to participate and find the sale that suits them best. The experience of browsing and haggling, even if virtual, can be as rewarding as the physical visits of the past. Make sure to stop by and show your support for local sellers!

By participating in these sales, you not only find unique items for your home but also contribute to a vibrant community tradition. Some sellers rely on these sales to cover essential bills, making every sale a significant contribution to their livelihoods. So, whether you're looking for a deal or just want to support local businesses, consider stopping by a garage or yard sale near you.

This year, garage and yard sales are happening differently, but the spirit remains the same. Embrace the changes, and keep supporting these valuable community events.