Swampscott Yard Sale Brings More Than Bargains: Builds Community

A doll was for sale along with jewelry at the town-wide yard sale || Monica Sager

From clothing and dolls to candles, playpens, and dollhouses, the Swampscott town-wide yard sale had it all. But one word was on everyone’s mind: community.

“It’s good to see people from the neighborhood and be a part of something good,” said Marc Picariello.

Swampscott regularly hosts town-wide yard sales. Saturday’s fall edition featured more than 20 participating locations, including multiple vendors on the Town Hall Lawn.

Sweaters with the words “Big Blue,” “Big Bro” and “Big Sis” were sold at a house on Pine Hill Road || Monica Sager

On Norfolk Avenue, Marc and Stefanie Picariello sold a variety of items, from a sparkly Easter bunny decoration to appliances, Mickey Mouse drinking glasses, and clothing.

A man looks at appliances at the Picariello residence || Monica Sager

“It’s a great opportunity to be part of the town-wide community,” Stefanie said.

Down the street at Big Blue Bargains, Jodi Hendry said the event gave the 501c3 thrift store more opportunities to connect with the town and be part of the community.

“Today we’ll get a lot more visible with people who don’t know we’re here, which in turn gets more donations and volunteers,” Hendry said.

Big Blue Bargain was open during the town-wide yard sale || Monica Sager

Big Blue Bargain, at 155 Norfolk Ave., has been part of the Swampscott community since 2012. Over the years, it has supported various local causes, including the Lions Club eyeglasses drive, Swampscott High School life skills classes, the Friends of Swampscott Library, and school sports programs. Recently, Big Blue Bargains donated $4,000 to the Swampscott Middle School parent teacher organization and $5,000 to the Swampscott Integrated Preschool to support music education.

“It’s one big cycle of visibility, money, and all going back out to the town,” Hendry said.

Saudy Santiago also said she wanted to “be a part of the community.” She hoped to raise money for her son and a new apartment by selling items, including a collectible Yankee Candle that smells like “brown paper packages.”

Saudy Santiago stands with her family at her booth || Monica Sager

Yuliya Bulyukova brought her paintings of flowers and the ocean to the Town Hall Lawn because after living in Swampscott for a year, she said she wanted to get more involved.

“I want to expand my network,” Bulyukova said. “The city is very nice. Everyone is kind and welcoming.”