W&M’s Thrift Extravaganza Is Back! And It’s Bigger, Funkier, and Full of Treasure

If you’ve been in Williamsburg long enough, you’ve probably heard whispers about “the Costume Sale.” Well, it’s back — and it’s had a glow-up. Now called the W&M Campus Thrift Extravaganza, this event is basically a treasure hunt meets fashion free-for-all. It’s happening Tuesday, October 21 and Wednesday, October 22, 2025, at William & Mary’s Sadler Center upstairs in Tidewater A & B.

The fun kicks off with the Twilight Sale on Tuesday night from 7 to 11 p.m. — perfect for late-night thrifters who love first dibs. The full sale runs Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Expect racks of costumes, vintage pieces, formal wear, and the kind of finds that make you wonder how anyone ever donated them. Shiny, stretchy, sparkly — you’ll see it all. Shoes, hats, gloves, jewelry, even a Christmas corner for early holiday decorators.

And here’s the best part: every penny benefits FISH, Williamsburg’s local food and clothing closet that helps families in need right here in our community. This isn’t just a fun shopping spree — it’s a fundraiser that actually makes a difference. In past years, the sale has helped FISH cover rent, restock essentials like socks and underwear, and purchase hard-to-find clothing sizes for local kids.

There’s also a 50/50 cash lottery for anyone feeling lucky. Tickets are just a dollar, and the winner takes home half while the other half goes to FISH. Not bad odds for a good cause.

If you’re coming from off campus, don’t stress about parking — there’s reserved parking for shoppers in the Old Dominion Lot at 299 James Blair Drive and the Stadium Lot at 180 Stadium Drive. Just look for the signs and balloons.

The event is sponsored by William & Mary’s Catholic Campus Ministry, and it brings together students, volunteers, and locals for one big, feel-good community event. Think of it less like a “costume sale” and more like a one-of-a-kind pop-up thrift store where creativity meets charity. Every year is a little different, and every year someone walks out with a jaw-dropping find.

So, whether you’re hunting for the perfect Halloween outfit, some funky vintage flair, or just love a good community event with a cause, make your way to the W&M Campus Thrift Extravaganza. You’ll walk away with something you love — and help support your neighbors at the same time. That’s what I call a Williamsburg win-win.

Looking for more local events like this? Stick around — I keep tabs on all the fun, charitable, and family-friendly happenings in the greater Williamsburg area.

I’m Jackie Berberabe, your local realtor and proud military spouse. I help the military community buy and sell homes in Williamsburg, Yorktown, Newport News, and beyond.