Really Really Free Markets (RRFM) are a great way to meet and share material items, resources, and skills with members of your community. Best of all, everything is 100% absolutely free! RRFM’s are based on the “gift economy“, meaning people bring things they no longer want and anyone who attends can take anything they need. No money is exchanged, no bartering is required, and no questions are asked. (Of course there will always be ‘yard sale vultures’ who are looking for things to re-sell, but when that happens you just need to explain to them that RRFMs are events intended to build tighter communities.) Items range from clothes, books, dishes, plants, fresh produce, bicycles, you name it. Oftentimes people will lend their skills or provide services for free such as hair cuts, back massages, bicycle repair, face painting (it’s a family event where children are always welcome).

Many cities have started monthly RRFMs, especially since the downturn of our economy. Do a google search to see if there are RRFMs in your area. If not, start one! It’s really easy. My friends started one in my small, southern town almost 2 years ago and we have continued doing it every month.

First, pick a day & time. Each RRFM is different in its own way. Some are on the first Sunday of the month, others are on Saturday or at the end of the month. Some last all day long, while others are only a couple hours. Some have potlucks built in, while Food Not Bombs serves at others.

Second, find a public location. Parks are a great place! Depending on the place you choose, you may have to ask permission to use the area to avoid unpleasant interacts with people of authority. We never had any problems holding RRFMs at a public park, just as long as you leave the space exactly how they were before you got there. Your city may have other avenues for holding events, or you may know someone who owns some property where you can hold the temporary markets.

Third, make some flyers. Pass them out to your friends, put them up around the location of the RRFM (how can you build a community if the community members aren’t there?). Contact local newspapers, free publications, local radio shows and tv stations to include the event in their calendars.

Fourth, look around your house for things that are taking up space. Do you really need all of those salt and pepper shakers? What about that bag of clothes that you’re hoping to fit into next summer? If you have an abundance of silverware consider a down-size. Also think about what other people might need. In the winter time, get rid of extra blankets, coats and warm clothes. Someone will definitely appreciate it on the next freezing night.

On the day of the RRFM, bring a blanket, bed sheet, towel, etc so you can lay out your items for everyone to browse through. Check out the things that other people brought and feel free to take anything that catches your eye. Be sure to introduce yourself to others and meet your neighbors.

Most importantly, if no one takes some of the things you bring, please don’t leave them there! Take them back with you. Try to discourage people from dropping things off and leaving. Again, RRFMs are community events, not charity events! If you are interested in starting a RRFM in your city but need additional help through these steps, please feel free to leave a comment.