Arts & Events

Get Ready for the Oakland Museum's White Elephant Sale

By Dorothy Snodgrass
Tuesday December 13, 2011 - 09:39:00 AM

I'm always delighted to receive the announcement of the Oakland Museum of California's White Elephant Sale, this year marking their 53rd Anniversary. Talk about "trash and treasures" -- you name it, they've got it! Because the Warehouse is located at 333 Lancaster Street, Oakland, parking is nigh unto impossible. Shoppers are therefore encouraged to take a free shuttle bus, which runs continuously from the Fruitvale Bart Station to the Warehouse. 

The 2012 Preview Sale is Sunday, January 29th, 10-4:00. Admission is $15 in advance, $20 at the door. (The main sale, free to the public, is on a Saturday and Sunday in March).  

Donations of gently used, good quality items are being accepted at the warehouse door, or may be picked up by the van:(510) 930-5919. 

The White Elephant Sale is the biggest, the best and certainly the most enjoyable rummage sale in Northern California. There are 17 departments, with everything from sporting goods to boutique items, books, furniture, oriental rugs, electrical items, clothing and toys. All are spread out in the 96,000 square foot warehouse according to departments. So, like a child in a candy store, it's hard to know just where to start your shopping. 

It should also be noted here that the Oakland Museum of California features attractive day trips (i.e., "Sounds of the Season and the Hotel Mac" Sunday, December 18th, "Day in the Country: Healdsburg and Cloverdale" , Thursday, Feb. 23rd and "Sunday Brunch, Grand Island Mansion,Sunday, March 11th. 

For information on the White Elephant Sale and the Museum day trips, call Kay MacFarland at (510) 758-6643.