Thrill of the hunt returns at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts Treasure Sale

For more than a quarter of a century, bargain hunters and collectors have eagerly awaited the annual return of the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts’ Treasure Sale, and this fall, the tradition continues with its 26h year. Organized by the Singer Society, the museum’s volunteer organization, the sale has become a community institution — an event that transforms the museum into a labyrinth of hidden gems, unexpected discoveries and the irresistible excitement of the hunt, with part of the reward being supporting the museum.

Unlike ordinary shopping trips, the Treasure Sale is closer to an adventure. Every corner of the sale holds the promise of something surprising: a piece of jewelry that once lit up a costume ball, a painting that’s just right for that empty space on your wall or a piece of furniture whose patina carries decades of stories.

Shoppers return year after year not just because the prices are unbeatable, but because the atmosphere crackles with possibility. There is no telling what might turn up, and that unpredictability is part of the thrill that keeps the tradition alive.

But the Treasure Sale offers more than just the joy of discovery. Each purchase, no matter how small, directly supports the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts.

Proceeds help sustain exhibitions, educational programs and outreach efforts, ensuring that art remains accessible to the entire community. That means the vintage chair carried home or the collectible carefully wrapped in tissue doesn’t just enrich a buyer’s life — it helps keep the museum vibrant and active. In that way, shoppers can leave knowing they’ve found something meaningful in more ways than one.

The event begins in grand style with a special preview party on Friday, Oct. 31, from 5-8 p.m. Halloween provides the theme, adding a festive atmosphere to the exclusive opportunity. Guests will sip wine, enjoy hors d’oeuvres and mingle with fellow treasure seekers, all while enjoying the coveted first look at what’s on offer.

For $45 for museum members and $50 for non-members, attendees gain not only early access to the sale but camaraderie and the thrill of being the first to scoop up the best finds. Imagine strolling out the door with a unique collectible or perfect accent piece. It’s an evening designed for those who relish both celebration and strategy, and registration is required in advance to secure a spot.

Adding to the excitement is this year’s raffle, a chance to win a garden cart filled with hand-picked sale items and gift cards to local businesses. Tickets cost $10 and can be purchased online before the event or in person at the museum.

The winning ticket will be drawn during the preview party, though attendance is not required to win. Even those who can’t make it to the sale can participate in this chance at a prize that embodies the spirit of the event.

After the preview party, the sale continues throughout the weekend and into the following week. Doors open to the public on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and again on Sunday, Nov. 2, from 1-4 p.m.

The final day, Tuesday, Nov. 4, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., is reserved for what has become known as “Bag Day.” On this day, shoppers can fill a museum-provided bag with as many items as will fit for only $20 (some items are excluded). For many, this is the most exhilarating moment of all — an all-out treasure hunt where creativity and keen eyes are rewarded with armfuls of finds at an unbeatable price. Admission is free Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday.

Of course, the Treasure Sale would not be possible without the generosity of the community. Donations of gently used furniture, artwork, collectibles, jewelry and other items are accepted most of the year, with the deadline for inclusion in the sale being mid-October, giving residents an opportunity to clear out attics, basements and closets while supporting the museum. For many donors, the knowledge that their once-loved pieces will find new homes — and raise funds for the arts — is a reward in itself.

Ultimately, the Treasure Sale is more than a fundraiser. It is a tradition, a celebration and an adventure all in one. It invites shoppers to embrace the thrill of the hunt, knowing that each discovery carries with it the joy of the find and the satisfaction of giving back.

Whether arriving for the fun of the preview party, the excitement of weekend browsing or the high-energy of Bag Day, every visitor comes away with a story — and often with treasures that will begin a new chapter in their lives. This fall, the atrium of the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts once again becomes a place of possibility, where the only question is not whether you’ll find something, but what treasure is waiting just for you.

Bailey Rafter is manager of marketing and publication for the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts.

This article originally appeared on The Herald-Mail: Thrill of hunt at Washington County Museum of Fine Arts Treasure Sale