National Thrift Store Day is an annual holiday that honors thrift stores.
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Below, we’ll explain more about National Thrift Store Day, what you can do to celebrate the holiday in 2024, and why using thrift stores is beneficial not just for individuals but for the entire community.
Image source: iStock
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National Thrift Store Day is a day to celebrate second-hand shopping.
The origins of National Thrift Store Day are not well known, but it is believed that the day was established due to a change in attitude towards shopping at thrift stores (also known as second-hand shops, charity shops, consignment stores, etc.).
During the Great Depression, these stores became popular among shoppers who couldn’t afford to shop at department stores, but as a result, there was sometimes a stigma attached to shopping secondhand, according to the National Today blog.
While there may still be a stigma surrounding secondhand shopping in some circles, it has recently become so popular that there are even entire TikTok accounts dedicated to videos sharing thrift store purchases.
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That’s why many are excited about the awareness the holiday brings: “National Thrift Store Day reminds people that there are sustainable alternatives to buying new, full-price items or simply throwing out items they can no longer use,” Jeremy Keene, director of ReStore Expertise Hub at Habitat for Humanity International, told Green Matters exclusively in an email.
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When is National Thrift Store Day 2024?
People can celebrate National Thrift Store Day 2024 on August 17th.
Oney Crowley of Goodwill Industries International told Green Matters exclusively by email why the organization thinks it’s important to mark the day on the calendar every year: “National Thrift Store Day is about spreading the word about the benefits of buying and donating second-hand goods, and the benefits are many,” Crowley says.
“Thanks to environmentally and cost-conscious consumers, the second-hand market is booming,” Crowley continues. “For Goodwill and other nonprofits, National Thrift Store Day also provides an important opportunity to talk about our mission. For example, when you donate used items to Goodwill, you not only help create a more circular economy and provide affordable shopping opportunities, but you also help fund life-changing career training and job placement programs in our neighborhoods.”
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Shopping secondhand isn’t just limited to clothing: stores like Habitat for Humanity ReStore stock all kinds of household items to help people decorate shared spaces. “Items are constantly changing and often include new or gently used furniture, appliances, lighting fixtures, housewares and building materials, typically on sale for 30-50 percent off retail prices,” Keene says.
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Ways to celebrate National Thrift Store Day.
As for celebrating the spirit of National Thrift Store Day, Crowley has a few suggestions: “Simply put, shop, donate and share,” she suggests, adding that she would also like to see people talk about how shopping at their local thrift stores benefits their community.
“Another unique way to celebrate National Thrift Store Day is to get friends, family, or coworkers to volunteer at a ReStore,” advises Keen. “Volunteering has positive effects on mental and physical health, helps with team building, and is another way to support Habitat’s mission.”
Additionally, those who choose Habitat Restores help fund the construction and repair of affordable housing in the communities where their stores are located.
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Translator
🌟 Celebrate National Thrift Shop Day with Goodwill! 🌟 August 17 is National Thrift Shop Day. Let’s celebrate the art of recycling and the amazing impact it has on our community. Whether you’re a seasoned recycling enthusiast or a beginner, Goodwill is the place to go. Always shop early to get the best selection! ● National Thrift Shop Day is a day to celebrate second-hand shopping. ● Shopping at Goodwill offers a wide selection of clothing, shoes, accessories, home decor, and more. ● Shopping and donating at Goodwill helps change lives, create jobs, and help people become independent through the power of work. Don’t forget to check out the gift cards hidden in-store at Goodwill in Virginia. Happy shopping! #NationalThriftShopDay #goodwillfinds #thriftwithgoodwill #ThriftForGood #SustainableFashion #ShopLocal @Goodwill Industries Intl. @Goodwill USA @Goodwill Official @CoastGoodWill
♬ Original Sound – Divas Vault
Crowley says that when we get into the habit of thrifting and reusing, we’ll also be more mindful of our spending habits and more likely to prefer timeless pieces that will last over fast fashion items, giving both the planet and our wallets reason to be happy.