Written by a Panorama resident for the June 2019 Newsletter

The Patio Sale is on the horizon. This year’s sale will be held on Saturday, July 20^th from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. If you are new, the preparations are a sight and a site to behold as the parking garages and other spaces behind the Chalet and the Encore warehouse transform into a huge hive of activity and sales counters. Once again, the sale will be held in two locations: behind the Chalet (1650 Circle Lane SE) and at Encore Furniture & Books (4011 14th Avenue).

The Benevolent Fund Patio Sale is the annual sale of sales! Furniture, art, housewares, books, office supplies, electronics, appliances, craft supplies, china, silver, hand tools, luggage, garden supplies, baskets, bikes, exercise equipment, pottery, and so much more that has been cleaned and packed throughout the prior year is unpacked and displayed for sale. On Saturday, shoppers from all over the South Puget Sound area line up early, eager to get the best deals. The “doors” open at 9:00 am and the race to search and save begins. Oh, and it really is a race – stand back and watch as potential buyers run in. Patrons gather armloads of goods and then visit one of the cashier or credit card stations, only to unload and go back for more. It is a show and an event that has to be seen to be believed.

Who comes to the Patio Sale? Folks of all ages and from all over the South Sound area and beyond. Do you have a grandchild going off to college? What a great place to get that dorm room stuff that every freshman needs. A few extra wine glasses, a scarf, a purse, a picture frame.  It’s all here on the third weekend in July. Invite your friends; spread the word. Parking is free and the bargains are amazing.

The Patio Sale doesn’t happen without the commitment of Panorama resident volunteers. Amazingly more than 400 people volunteer for the Patio Sale – it really does take a village.

Working together with neighbors towards a common goal is a great way to get to know one another and build a sense of camaraderie in your neighborhood. After working together on this event and spending time together, you will know those you live near much better, and you may even form some new friendships.