World’s longest yard sale returns to Highway 127

DUNLAP, Tenn. (WDEF) — Known as the world’s longest yard sale, the Highway 127-yard sale has started yet again this year.

The sale runs from parts of Alabama to Michigan.

The official starting dates are scheduled for August 3-5, but vendors have already set up days in advance.

“The Highway 127-yard sale, if you talk to any of the locals, it’s going to be one or two things. They love it, or they hate it,” Mayor of Dunlap Clint Huth said.

Visitors from all over come to take advantage of great deals and unique items at the sale.

While it can be great for commerce in small towns, it can also cause some safety concerns.

“Pedestrians may walk out in front of you. They’re looking at that Elvis picture and not necessarily paying attention to the other traffic going down the highway,” Huth said.

Local law enforcement encourages the public to be alert especially during the busy week.

“Our biggest thing that we want to see is just everybody being a little bit more cautious, and a little bit more aware while they’re driving. Put the cellphone down, pay attention to what’s in front of you on the road,” Lieutenant with the Dunlap Fire Department Christopher Walker said.

“Be a little bit more patient with other people, probably be a little bit more of a defensive driver and have a little bit more grace with the people that are from out of town, that maybe don’t know how roads work around the area … and don’t shop from your car. If you want to get out, park somewhere safe off the roadway. Get out and walk around. Don’t try to stop in the middle of the road to look at a sale,” Walker said.

Vendors will be set up for miles through the beginning of August.

Locals from Signal Mountain through the Sequatchie Valley have taken part in the sale for years. 

“I do this every year. I’ve done it for probably 15 years. I love meeting the people that come back every year. They look forward to seeing these red and white tents put up,” Dorothy ‘Sassie’ Cunningham said. 

From antiques to clothes, there is a little bit of everything for everyone.

As the sale continues throughout the week, remember to be safe and attentive.

Visit the Highway 127-yard Sale map to see where the sale runs in your area.