One person's castoff can be another's treasure. National Thrift Shop Day, on August 17, celebrates thrift stores and secondhand shopping, which save money, reduce waste and support charities. From vintage clothing and furniture to books and housewares, thrift shops are full of surprises. Many people love the thrill of the hunt, and back-to-school season makes it a perfect time to shop secondhand.
History of National Thrift Shop Day
Selling secondhand goods is an old tradition, from rag dealers to flea markets. Modern charity thrift stores emerged in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
In 1902, Reverend Edgar J. Helms in Boston started what became Goodwill Industries, collecting donated goods and hiring people in need to repair and sell them. The Salvation Army also operated stores that sold donated items to fund its programs.
Thrift shopping grew in popularity in the late 20th century, as vintage fashion became trendy. In recent years, concerns about textile waste and 'fast fashion' have made secondhand shopping even more popular, both in stores and online. Who created National Thrift Shop Day is not documented.
Why National Thrift Shop Day Matters
Thrift shopping helps reduce waste by keeping usable items out of landfills.
It saves money, making clothing and household goods more affordable.
Many thrift stores support charities, job training and community programs, so purchases help others. Donating items also gives them a second life.
Thrift shopping also encourages creativity. Shoppers often find unique vintage pieces that no one else has, and many people enjoy upcycling furniture, clothing and décor into something new. For students, artists and people furnishing their first home, thrift stores offer affordable ways to express personal style.
Donating to thrift stores is just as important as shopping there. Clean, working items in good condition are the most useful, and many stores accept furniture, books, toys and kitchenware. Checking a store's donation guidelines before dropping items off helps volunteers and staff put donations to good use quickly.
How to Celebrate National Thrift Shop Day
- Shop secondhand: visit a local thrift store.
- Donate: give clean, gently used items.
- Upcycle: give thrifted items a new look.
- Host a swap: trade clothes with friends.
- Shop for back-to-school: find gently used clothes and supplies.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, host a clothing swap or donation drive, or organize a team thrift challenge to find the best item under $5. In classrooms, students can learn about textile waste, calculate savings from buying secondhand, or upcycle items into art. At home, families can declutter and donate, shop for back-to-school clothes at a thrift store, or try a family thrift challenge. Wash secondhand clothes before wearing.
Fun Facts About National Thrift Shop Day
- Goodwill began in Boston in 1902.
- Secondhand shopping reduces textile waste.
- Many thrift stores fund charitable programs.
National Thrift Shop Day FAQs
When is National Thrift Shop Day?
National Thrift Shop Day is August 17.
When did Goodwill start?
In 1902, in Boston.
Why shop secondhand?
It saves money, reduces waste and supports charities.
What sells best at thrift stores?
Clean, gently used clothing and household items.