On Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, the City of Asheville and Buncombe County are sponsoring a family-friendly Costume Swap and Creative Reuse Workshop, with donation intake and sorting (primarily) happening the day before, on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026.
We need your help! We are seeking volunteers to help with donation intake and sorting, event set-up, event clean-up, and everything else in between. Please choose a 1-hour time slot (or more) from the options provided below. All participants must sign a Volunteer Liability Waiver. Minor volunteers are welcome to join, too! Gloves will be provided.
WHEN:
Donation Intake & Sorting - Friday, Oct. 16, 12-4 p.m. (1-hour time slots)
Final Event Set-up/Swap & Workshop/Clean-up - Saturday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. (1-hour time slots)
WHERE:
Stephens-Lee Community Center (Gym & Multi-Purpose Room)
30 George Washington Carver Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
ACCEPTED ITEMS: Clean and gently used costumes (all sizes), accessories including hats and masks, and trick-or-treat bags. *No wigs, please.*
**There are no donation requirements for volunteers and/or shoppers.**
Donations will be accepted at several locations in the City of Asheville and unincorporated Buncombe County for the first two weeks of October.
WEAR/BRING:
- Comfortable clothes
- Closed-toe shoes are highly encouraged
- Reusable water bottle
- Snacks
By diverting costumes and accessories from the landfill into homes for people to enjoy, we strive to cultivate community through inclusive resource sharing. The Swap and Workshop are 100% FREE. Volunteers are critical to the event's success! Your time and energy are greatly appreciated!
If you cannot make your shift or have other questions, please contact: Ashley Lavender, Waste Reduction Program Manager, at alavender@ashevillenc.gov or by phone (828.767.2629).
MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
The 2026 Holiday Free Store is Saturday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. at the Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center. Stay tuned for more information, including volunteer opportunities!
Thank you! We hope to see you at both events!