SASKATOON — It might be a case of “the neighbourhood that bargains together stays together.”
Montgomery Place, soon to mark its 90th birthday, blended years of memories, trinkets and treasures into its annual garage sale weekend, touted as one of the longest-running community garage sales in Saskatoon.
“Since 1946, when veterans returning from the Second World War and later the Korean War settled here with their families, Montgomery Place has flourished. Watching children, trees and gardens grow, over the years Montgomery veterans transformed a plot of native Prairies into homes, several parks, two schools and one neighbourhood church. It’s the kind of community where grown children come home to raise their own kids,” says the community’s website states.
This charming neighbourhood is home to the renowned annual Montgomery Garage Sale, now entering its fourth decade. Held annually on the first Saturday of May, residents and attendees have described it as a thriving display of community camaraderie, with a carnival-like atmosphere drawing hundreds of people.
While some residential sales begin on Friday evening, the lion’s share of the activity takes place Saturday. The event has grown to include community group fundraisers, food sales and unique features such as the Dinosaur Hunter, who this year brought a T-Rex skull to add to the fun.
As one of the first large-scale garage sales of the year in Saskatoon, the tradition and reputation of Montgomery’s annual community event continues to grow, with thousands of people lining up the roads in and around the neighbourhood to shop or experience this historic gathering.
Â鶹´«Ã½AV spoke to participants who said they come for the nostalgia, as parents, grandparents or other family members once lived—or still live—in the area. Some attend for the bargains, while others enjoy the family-friendly outing and near-festival atmosphere. Despite the crowds and occasional traffic congestion, smiles were found everywhere.
May 3 weekend showcases history of Montgomery Place
The legacy of this community event also highlights Montgomery Place’s rich history. Street markers honour battle sites, armed forces personnel, and the famous Lancaster bomber, all of which lent their names to the neighbourhood’s streets and parks.
A Veterans Monument includes the names of veterans who built or bought homes in Montgomery Place between 1946 and 1977 under the Veterans’ Land Act soldier settlement program.
Another significant milestone came in 2020, when the Municipal Heritage Advisory Committee and the City of Saskatoon awarded the Montgomery Place Community Association a Municipal Heritage Award in the education category at the honour level.
Remembrance has been woven into the fabric of this nearly 90-year-old Saskatoon community.
Residents say their garage sale has earned a strong reputation, attracting droves of shoppers, visitors, and former residents eager to revisit a neighbourhood they or their loved ones once called home.
The increased foot traffic, paired with variety, makes the Montgomery sale appealing. Additions such as the Dinosaur Hunter and food vendors offer something new each year. A new marketplace at the community’s CN Curling Club added further value to the weekend.
Overall, the event strengthens neighbourhood bonds through collaboration, shared memories and social engagement. In contrast to a typical open house or thrift store visit, the Montgomery sale provides residents and shoppers with a unique opportunity to interact in a relaxed, outdoor setting over shared interests.
Food, fun and a festive atmosphere make it an event for all ages.
51st Scout Troop a partner from the beginning
Community members are proud of their 51st Scout Troop, which has hosted a fundraising barbecue in the centre of the neighbourhood for nearly as long as the garage sale has been held. The barbecue provides food and drink for attendees and supports the troop’s fundraising efforts.
Tony Hernadez, leader of the 51st Scout Troop based in Montgomery, said, “We were thrilled with the strong turnout and generosity shown by everyone, as your contributions make a difference to our organization.”
Hernadez said proceeds from the Montgomery garage sale barbecue cover key costs for next year’s activities, including a learn-to-camp program, rally kart building, special events, equipment storage fees and rentals for meetings and outings.
“These opportunities help our youth develop practical skills, confidence, teamwork and a love for the outdoors in a safe and supportive environment,” he said. “The partnership with Montgomery Community Association continues to be a cornerstone of our success and helps scouting thrive in our neighbourhood.”
Additional fundraising at private homes helped local sports teams, school groups and other organizations benefit from the increased weekend foot traffic in Montgomery.
