Christmas is coming a few months early for Haliburton-based thrifters as Dysart township prepares to host its second annual ‘New to You’ community yard sale.
The event debuted to much fanfare last summer, with over two dozen locals setting up shop at the parking lot at A.J. LaRue Arena, looking for new homes for items such as clothing, toys, furniture and more.
Organizer, John Watson, told The Highlander there has been significant demand for a second iteration.
“It was so well received last year – we had over 20 sellers, and hundreds of people stop by throughout the day. It’s a great opportunity for people to find all sorts of new to you treasures,” Watson, the township’s environmental manager, said. “It’s an important event for us because it helps to divert items from the landfill, supporting Dysart’s reuse activities.”
He noted the township has been recognized provincially for the event, winning a gold promotion and education award from the Municipal Waste Association. “We’re really excited about that because it shows other places are looking at what we’re doing here and can see that it’s working.”
The sale is taking place July 8 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. There’s space for 35 stalls, with registration costing $30 plus HST. Participants are asked to bring their own chairs, tables and cash float. If someone wishes to set up a tent, Watson said they must provide weights to secure it, as nothing will be allowed to penetrate the asphalt.
Having an event like this in a central location is appealing, Watson said.
“Because we’re so spread out in Dysart, it makes it hard for people to hold yard sales on their own property. Bringing everyone together in one space makes it nice and convenient for both sellers and shoppers,” he said.
“For me, it’s neat seeing all the different things people are selling. Last year, I heard so many people walk up to booths and go ‘oh, no way, I can’t believe you have this’, so it’s a great opportunity for people to add to their collections or make nice finds.”
Several other businesses and organizations are getting in on the action again this year. The Haliburton County Public Library is hosting a book sale at the Dysart branch, while the Lily Ann Thrift Store and SIRCH Thrift Warehouse are also hosting sales on the day.
Interested vendors can register until July 7 by visiting dysartetal.ca/newtoyou, or contacting the township at 705-457-1740.
