Bargains Galore on 64!

If you are from the area around Arkansas, there is a very interesting event that takes place in our area called Bargains Galore on 64, which is located, of course, on U.S. Highway 64. This highway crosses Arkansas from west to east (or vice versa, depending from which end you begin). I'm sure there is much more of it that is interesting; but in this case, I would have to say the 160 miles of garage sales/yard sales is going to be the focus. Even with this wonderful new tax holiday, things are very rough for a lot of people around my area. Undoubtedly, there will most likely be a lot of back-to-school shopping completed at yard sales, so this event is perfectly timed, other than the seriously nasty, humid heat that will have to be braved for the savings.

The line of sales starts from Fort Smith and continues past Conway, all the way to Beebe (pronounced bee bee). I have actually seen a large part of this since I live near Fort Smith and have family that lives on Highway 64 in Ozark. The first time I drove any of this, I was amazed at the amount of people who come out to show their wares. There are not only the usual items that are seen at the typical yard sales. There are people who create their own merchandise. I have seen beautiful woodwork, handmade quilts and other beautiful things, as well.

A lot of Crawford County is right on Highway 64, so it makes sense that the Crawford County Library System gathers books and sells them during this time. They, like a lot of the businesses offer shoppers a chance to come into a place that is air conditioned and take a break from the heat. Just to let anyone who is participating know, having some ice water, Gatorade, or other cold drinks available at your sales will bring in extra business. When it comes to the book sales that I see, I get a sharp, "No!" when I start whining. Really. Like anyone can have too many books? Like they really needed that velvet wall hanging with the dogs playing poker?

Whatever, the people having the yard sales do not seem to be the only ones who participate, is what I was attempting to explain when I went on a tangent. There are a lot of businesses on Highway 64, in the Fort Smith area, although there is also a lot of empty land where enterprising land owners can allow friends or family to set up. I believe some of them are even able to charge for the use of their land. If I were able to either increase my business or charge for the use of such handy land, I would definitely do so.

To be serious, this is an excellent opportunity for sellers and buyers. I know most people are watching their pennies, at this time, so if they can make some money or save some, I am glad to let them know this large event. I am even voluntarily telling people that I am from Arkansas (let the jokes about my state and yard sales begin!). I hope this article helps, and if nothing else, perhaps there can be something organized in areas that do not have something like this. My father-in-law has even sold one of his handmade pieces of cedar furniture to somebody who traveled from Oregon! I have included the link, again, here. It has a huge amount of information on the participating towns, a map, lodgings, and even yard sale tips. Good luck and stay cool!