The Worlds Longest Yard Sale

There’s a 654-mile stretch of road leading from West Unity, Ohio, to Gadsden, Ala., that is a garage sale fanatic’s dream. Dubbed the Worlds Longest Yard Sale (WLYS) and recently highlighted in Parade magazine, this U.S. 127 Corridor Sale started in 1987 to pull people away from the interstate back to the scenic highway and its offerings (scenery, river boats, railroads, crafts, horses, bits of Civil War and American Indian history.)

Bargains abound at this unique four-day sale now in its 22nd year. It always begins on the first Thursday in August, so if you live anywhere near this highway, mark your calendars for Aug. 6-9 for a frugal and fun road trip. A map of the route is available inside the annual brochure.

Professional vendors and individuals lay their wares out for the passing public, some scattered on blankets, some organized neatly on tables. Fresh produce, handmade crafts appear alongside normal yard sale fare. You never know what you might find, but this adventure is one without the financial risk.

Bring a cooler with drinks and food, and plot your course for day trips to avoid the extra expense of staying in a hotel and eating out. (Be aware that some book hotel rooms up to a year in advance, making them hard to come by in the first place.)

This year HGTV will be filming on location and is casting now for those who plan to attend. See www.127sale.com for details.