Federal Way to host last homemade trade event this year

Published 9:52 am Tuesday, December 1, 2015

The last homemade trade event of the year is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 6 at Federal Way City Hall, 33325 Eighth Ave. S.

The event offers unique Christmas gifts that “shoppers” can acquire by trading their own crafts instead of paying money.

Those who are interested should bring homemade crafts or items to trade. Traders can bring as little or as much as they want but are encouraged to bring items of a variety of “values” to make trading easier.

Items include anything homemade or homegrown — as long as it is legal. At past events, residents have brought homemade bread, brownies, jam, pickles, plants, herbs, jewelry, pillows, hot pad holders, knitted scarves, stuffed animals, artwork, candles, greeting cards, fishing flies, wooden spoons, key chains, buttons, magnets and more. Residents can make trades outside the event if they feel comfortable, such as trading a hair cut for fruit tree pruning.

Each person sets out their items at 1 p.m., then walks around to meet people and look at what everyone else brought. When trading starts at 1:30 p.m., traders can negotiate a fair exchange with others but shouldn’t feel obligated to take each offer.

All ages are welcome and children are encouraged to participate.

The city will provide the space, tables, chairs, event facilitation and some promotions. These events are for the community, by the community, so an invitation to others is encouraged to keep them going.

Remember, no cash will be exchanged. This is just a way for you to meet other creative people in your community and trade for eco-friendly homemade goods.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/HomemadeTradeFW