A bargain hunter’s bonanza

Rummage sales now part of sidewalk shopping event

Burlington becomes a bargain hunter’s dream this weekend as the local Chamber of Commerce hosts its first Communitywide Sidewalk and Rummage Sales.

The event is set for Friday and Saturday throughout the city. The sales generally run from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., but some merchants may stay open longer and many of those hosting rummage sales will set their own hours.

“We’ve had a lot of interest in the rummage sales,” said Jan Ludtke, executive director of the chamber. “We’re asking those who want to participate to put some balloons at the end of their street and at their driveway to help people find them.”

Although this is the first time community rummage sales will be held in conjunction with the annual sidewalk sales, Ludtke is optimistic about the prospects for success.

“We’re very encouraged that it will take off,” she said of the event.

Merchants throughout the city – from downtown to the commercial corridors along Milwaukee Avenue and Pine Street – will also take to the sidewalks with special deals.

In addition to the sidewalk sales, vendor booths featuring a variety of wares – from jewelry and clothing to Tupperware and Avon – will be set up downtown at Wehmhoff Square.

Books and ice cream

There are also two complementary events: the Burlington’s Library’s annual used book sale and the Burlington Historical Society’s Ice Cream Social.

The book sale includes a preview event Thursday, July 26, from noon-2 p.m. The cost is $5 per person or $15 per family. The regular sale is Thursday from 2-7 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.–5 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.-noon.

The ice cream social runs from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Pioneer Log Cabin in Wehmhoff Square. Cones and sundaes with choice of toppings will be sold along with bottled water. The Pioneer Cabin will be open and historical artifacts will be on display.

For more information on the Community Sidewalk and Rummage Sales contact the chamber at 763-6044.