Reuse Rendezvous returns July 18 – 19, 2026

Nanaimo’s annual City-wide swap meet promotes reuse and helps keep useful items out of the landfill

Summary

The City of Nanaimo is inviting residents to take part in Reuse Rendezvous 2026, the community's longest-running reuse event, taking place on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19.

Reuse Rendezvous gives residents an opportunity to give gently used household items a second life while helping reduce waste and support a more sustainable community. Participants are encouraged to place clean, reusable items at the curb in front of their homes, clearly marked with a "FREE" sign for neighbours and visitors to browse and take.

Popular giveaway items include books, toys, sporting equipment, household goods, small furniture, tools and garden items. Residents are encouraged to only set out items that are in good, usable condition.

To help ensure a safe and enjoyable event, please keep all items clear of sidewalks, bike lanes and roadways. Drivers are reminded to slow down, watch for pedestrians and cyclists, and obey all traffic regulations while visiting neighbourhoods throughout the weekend.

Any items that remain at the curb after the event should be removed by Monday, July 19 and managed through donation, recycling or disposal options as appropriate.

For more information, visit the Reduce and Reuse Community Events page on www.nanaimo.ca.

Link to Strategic Plan: By encouraging reuse of household goods and keeping waste out of the landfill, Reuse Rendezvous supports council's priority to protect and enhance Nanaimo’s natural environment.

Key Points

  • Households – Find a match for unwanted goods by marking them with a “FREE” tag and putting them at the curb on the weekend of July 18 and 19, 2026.
  • Bargain Lovers – Join in by searching the City for marked 'free' items to take home and reuse. Good used furniture, tools, clothing, sporting goods and toys are just some of the great finds to discover.
  • Participants of Reuse Rendezvous are asked to stay safe when searching for bargains: slow down, watch for children, park carefully and obey traffic signs and speed limits.

Quotes

"Reuse Rendezvous continues to be a valued community tradition that encourages waste reduction through reuse. Residents are invited to participate by sharing gently used household items, helping extend the life of valuable resources, reducing landfill waste and fostering a stronger, more connected community."

Zero Waste Coordinator
City of Nanaimo
-30-

Contact:

For media enquiries, please contact:
Communications
City of Nanaimo
250-754-4251

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