“I’ve got gadgets and gizmos a plenty. I’ve got whozits and whatzits galore. You want thingamabobs? I’ve got 20! But who cares? No big deal, I want more.”
In that song, Disney’s Ariel might well have been talking about her own garage sale experience.
And although we can’t recall her actually trying to sell any of her treasure trove at low, discounted prices, if she had, her garage sale would probably have been a huge success.
After all, who can’t use another thingamabob?
Of course, garage sales have always been curious events.
To begin with, they’re fun. Browsing through the personal possessions that others are willing to sell is part bargain hunting, part social interaction and haggling, and part treasure hunt.
But no matter how you personally approach garage sales, Garagellenium, Oak Bay’s garage sale day is sure to fit the bill.
Once a year, residents of Oak Bay designate a day to hold a gigantic event in which Oak Bay households are invited to sign up to hold their own special sale and more than 90 do just that every year, making it possibly the largest garage sale event in Greater Victoria.
(OK, we know that there are larger organized craft sales and markets out there, but unless you have a hand-lettered sign and at least one salad spinner for sale, it doesn’t count as a garage sale.)
Cassie Kangas has been the organizer of the event, which is now in its 26th year, with no signs of fading away.
“I think that it’s the community spirit that sets this sale apart,” said Kangas. You get to meet different people from the neighbourhood that you might never have gotten to know.”
Of course, garage sales are also all about the treasure-hunting experience.
“It’s about finding that one item that’s a spectacular deal that you never expected to find,” said Kangas. “Years ago, my husband and I found this absolutely amazing light fixture at a sale on St. Patrick’s Street. It’s hanging in our dining room now as a reminder of the possible treasures that are out there.”
Garagellenium takes place on Saturday, July 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Residents who want to be a part of the fun can register their sale at oakbaygaragesale.com, starting on July 8. Registration will be open until July 18.
For those who are uninitiated in garage sale etiquette, the website also offers some friendly advice.
For example, it’s a good idea to carry small bills and change since folks who run garage sales won’t be equipped with tap debit machines (really, some people are unaware of that).
Also, don’t arrive early. Getting to a sale an hour before the start time just isn’t cool.
Oh yes, then there’s the haggling.
“Haggling is always a factor. Some people really enjoy the bartering and will throw out a low-ball offer, but don’t be offended if it’s rejected,” said Kangas. Remember, beyond the bargain hunting, it’s all about having some fun while you search for treasures.
Kangas stressed that the event has something to offer treasure hunters of every age.
“Kids are welcome, as they love searching for their own special treasures. And older folks looking for that one special item love it just as much,” she said.
Finally, don’t forget to visit Engel & Volkers at 2249 Oak Bay Ave. for some free coffee, lemonade and cookies from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
After all, it’s important to stay hydrated and fuelled up before you dive into the next sale.
