Absolutely Free Sharing Market to feature free items, food and services

Local residents are encouraged to visit the Thurston County Fairgrounds on April 2 and April 4 for the third Absolutely Free Sharing Market, where people can take items from the donations, enjoy delicious food, meet neighbors or learn a new skill — all at no cost.   

The nature of the community event is “half block party, half mutual aid,” but not a charity, said event organizer Julia LaVassar.

“Imagine a free pile outside of someone's house after they finish their spring cleaning. But instead of one pile in a random spot, we bring tons of piles into a central location and invite the community to take whatever they like!” LaVassar said.

The skill sharing aspect of the market is the part where the community may share time, talents or knowledge. 

Any form or service is accepted, from sharing a list of the best birding spots to a palm reading session to a sit-down chat with an experienced knitter. 

"The goal of Absolutely Free Sharing Markets is to share anything you're not using with your neighbors, and take home new-to-you stuff that you will use. This is mutual aid, not charity — because everyone benefits when things aren't wasted!" LaVassar added. 

Donations 

Donations for the event will be collected on March 30-31 and April 1 from 3-8 p.m., at Thurston County Fairgrounds. 

The event accepts nearly anything in good condition, such as clothing, decor, tools, toys, gardening supplies and plant starts. 

Items not accepted as donations are opened, expired, personal, perishable or damaged goods.