If you’re a new mom, new to Indianapolis, or just haven’t heard of the Whale of a Sale yet, you will be amazed to learn about this huge consignment sale that happens twice a year just north of Indianapolis.
What is a Whale of a Sale?
Held at Grand Park in Westfield, Whale of a Sale is a pop-up consignment sale that offers parents name-brand clothes, shoes, toys, strollers, bikes, games, sporting goods, furniture and so much more at a fraction of retail prices. A fall sale happens in September and a spring sale in March.
Why Shop Consignment Sales
If you are like me, you might not have even considered second-hand clothing for your first child. When I discovered Whale of a Sale, however, I hardly ever bought brand new again. With the experience of having the first child wear their outfits once (if ever) and playing with toys for a couple of days then moving on to the next craze, you learn not to invest too much into clothes and toys. Especially when you can find them at such bargain prices at Whale of a Sale!
Why Whale of a Sale
In my experience with consignment sales in greater Indianapolis, Whale of a Sale is the largest in the area, with 750 families consigning (selling) all at once. Whale of a Sale prides itself in offering only high-quality merchandise. You’ll find only favorite brands and everything will be in gently used condition. Many items still have tags on them and most baby items have been washed but never worn. You know how that goes! With so many consignors likely selling very similar or even the same thing, the prices are very competitive.
My friends and I load up at Whale of a Sale and complete all of the next year’s shopping in one day. When you compare what you spent at the sale to what you would have spent at retail stores, not to mention the time and energy spent shopping each season, you’ll be thrilled. It is quite satisfying to complete it all in one day for a fraction of the cost.
When to Shop Whale of a Sale
To shop Whale of a Sale, you’ll need to register for a shopping time slot on their website. There are usually three days of shopping each season of the sale. Most days are free to shop and later dates and time slots do not require tickets. Earlier days and times are reserved for consignors, volunteers, and paid ticket holders; they get first dibs on the floor and hot items go quickly. If you don’t want to pay for a ticket and get first dibs, no worries, there will be plenty of amazing deals left after day one.
The last day is half-price day, where many of the remaining items are marked half off. When half-price day comes around, you can find even more amazing deals. There just won’t be as many options as on day one or two. You can sign up for a regular shopping day as well as half-price day; that way you can get what you need on day one then stock up on extras for an even better deal at the half-price sale. They have so much inventory, so you may find something that you missed the first time around.
What to Bring to Whale of a Sale
Prep yourself by going through your current stash of seasonal items. Make a list of things your kids may need: clothing sizes, shoe sizes, sports gear, swimsuits, outdoor toys, books, and toys. Do you have any special occasions on your calendar? Snag a new-to-you suit for your kiddo to wear at that upcoming wedding. Or grab some holiday attire for such a good price you won’t feel guilty about them wearing it only once or twice. Plan on picking up birthday or holiday gifts too; much of the stock is brand new with tags, in perfect gift-giving condition!
Whale of a Sale will always post their shopping policies on the website but here is what you can expect for the Spring 2023 sale:
MASKS – We will follow Grand Park Guidelines that are in place at the time of the sale.
PAYMENT – Credit card only. No cash or checks.
CHILDREN – For Thursday’s VIP Pre-Sales, each shopper requires a ticket. No children under 10 years old are permitted unless an infant that is being worn. If you wish to bring a child 10 years or older, you must purchase a ticket for them to attend.
BAGS – Please bring your own large bag/wagon to carry your items while shopping, or purchase a $5 IKEA bag while supplies last.
Whatever day you choose, we are certain you won’t look at “used” kid stuff the same way again. Don’t miss the Spring 2023 sale on March 23-26 and mark your calendar for the 2023 Fall sale usually held in September.
