February gets a bad rep. The buzz and excitement of the new year has worn off but the days are still long and cold. Unless you have a birthday or you go all out for Valentine’s Day, there just isn’t much going on. In 2005, shop owners in Old Town decided to change this. Since then, the first Saturday of every February has hosted the area’s biggest clearance sale. To quote one of Old Town Boutique District’s Twitter followers, “It’s the shopping Super Bowl!” This year, the 8th Annual Old Town Boutique District Warehouse Sale will be held from 9AM to 4PM on Saturday, February 2, at the George Washington Masonic Memorial. Merchandise for sale will include everything from accessories and apparel to home design and furnishings.
It is definitely worth trying to win one of the four early entry passes OTBD is giving away so you don’t have to fight the lines and crowds to get the goods. Like OTBD on Facebook and then fill out the form entitled “Warehouse Sale” just underneath the cover photo. The winners won’t be notified until February 1st.
TIPS: It’s worth getting there early as there is always a line and parking fills up quickly. In years past, it has snaked outside. Thankfully this year there will be more room inside for the line so the earlier you arrive the warmer you will be! Another tip. Wear a camisole and leggings underneath your coat. Few stores have changing rooms and you will likely want to try some things on. No need to feel self-conscious as very few men or children brave this event. Finally, while I’ve heard rumors of food this year, it’s probably smart to hydrate, caffeinate and fuel up beforehand. Following the shopping frenzy, get some lunch then spend the rest of your afternoon cozied up in fibre space’s lounge, working on your latest project and discussing the deals you scored earlier that morning.