World's Largest Garage Sale

One man's trash is another man's treasure. This is the perfect quote to use if you were describing a garage sale to someone who has never heard of one. These events are the time of year where you look through your neighbor's junk hoping to find a priceless family heirloom or simply just an interesting book. Regardless of your purpose, the scene is almost always the same. One house, a few neighbors, and a whole lot of items with various price tags. Now take this scene, and multiply it by 100,000 people. 

Image from Warrensburg Chamber

In October, more than 100,000 people travel to Warrensburg, NY, for the World's Largest Garage Sale (Healy). From all over the country, countless vendors go to Warrensburg to sell antiques, memorabilia, books, furniture, clothing, family heirlooms, children's items and whatever junk they want to get off their hands. This event is held annually on the weekend prior to Columbus Day weekend. 

The town of Warrensburg is clearly profiting from this event and have taken steps to continue attracting visitors and to attract even more the following years. They have partnered up with a nearby railway to offer special "Garage Sale Train Tickets" which allow passengers to "enjoy the beauty of the fall foliage" on their 1.5 hour ride (Warrensburg). On arrival, visitors can start enjoying the sales or take a free shuttle service around Warrensburg. Recently, the town has also created a family fun zone which includes a playground area, music, and other entertainment. The "World's Largest Garage Sale" definitely brings in a lot of money for the town. Not only are they providing cheaper transportation to the event, they are providing free transportation around the town. During this period of tourist boom, I wonder how nearby towns are affected. 

Sources:

Ahealy@syracuse.com, Allie Healy |. "World's Largest Garage Sale in Adirondacks: Guide to Parking, How to Avoid Traffic, More." New York Upstate. New York Upstate, 4 Apr. 2016. 

Warrensburg. "Garage Sale." Warrensburg Chamber or Commerce. Warrensburg, n.d.