Also: Michigan’s Longest Garage Sale returns; Polish pottery sale coming up
Jeanine Matlow
| Special to The Detroit News
Hit the road for US-12 Heritage Trail Garage Sale
Calling all bargain hunters and treasure seekers! The US-12 Heritage Trail Garage Sale — affectionately known as Michigan’s Longest Garage Sale — returns Aug. 8-10. Spanning more than 200 miles from New Buffalo to Detroit, this annual tradition invites thousands to explore the unique communities and scenic landscapes that line one of Michigan’s most historic highways. Each year, residents, businesses, and organizations along US-12 set up shop in yards, fields, parking lots and roadside stands to offer everything from antiques and collectibles to homemade goods, fresh produce, furniture, dishware and more. Some areas host clusters of vendors, while others offer a more relaxed, small-town charm. Remember to drive slowly and stay alert, especially for pedestrians, and be cautious when parking, walking and shopping along the highway. To learn more or to register your sale, go to us12heritagetrail.org.
‘Zinnias’ this week’s Garden Photo Contest selection
It’s all in the mix. Cheryl Royster of Brighton tells Homestyle that a garden of mostly perennials surrounds her patio, but her zinnias provide “a great pop of color for the summer.” Royster will receive a home or garden book and her entry will compete for the grand prize — a $200 gift certificate to English Gardens — through online voting by Homestyle readers in early September. The grand-prize winner will be announced in September. For entry instructions and rules, go to detroitnews.com/gardenphotos25. Don’t forget to tell us a bit about what makes them special to you, what flowers you used, or what inspires you. We want to hear your gardening story!
Wood ‘N Things hits golden anniversary
Wood ‘N Things in Brighton will celebrate 50 years of home decor, handmade charm and community spirit from Aug. 8-17 in the beloved red building with the train caboose where visitors can enjoy 30% off one item and refreshments. The celebration honors owner Pat Bayless, who began as a biology student until a medical condition altered her path and led to crafting with her father, Joe Lents, in their garage. Their handmade wood items sold quickly, and in 1975, they opened the original Wood ‘N Things in a modest shed. Five decades later, Bayless is among the longest-operating business owners in Brighton where her shop has become a popular destination. Selections include scented candles – like cinnamon bun and ocean breeze – to seasonal decor, faux florals, greenery, wreaths, everyday accents and more. Go to woodnthingsbrighton.com.
Polish Pottery Sale is Aug. 7-10 in Milford
Acorn Farm in Milford will offer an impressive collection of standard and Unikat pieces at 20% off regular prices during its 17th annual Polish Pottery Sale from Aug. 7-10. Two exquisite one-of-a-kind pieces will also be included in the sale that starts with a kickoff party from 5-8 p.m. Aug. 7 where attendees will be welcomed with accordion music, culminating with a plate of Polish food from Polish Village in Hamtramck. There will be a drawing for a piece of Polish Pottery. Each piece is handmade in Boleslawiec, Poland, by skilled artisans. These treasures are also microwave, dishwasher and oven safe. The location is 367 N. Main St. Go to acornfarmmi.com.
Last Shed 5 Flea for the season is Aug. 10
In case you missed the previous dates, Shed 5 Flea wraps up its ninth season at Eastern Market from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Aug. 10. This free outdoor event will feature 100 hand-selected vendors with a mix of new and vintage clothing, handmade goods, antiques and artisan foods. Held at the iconic Sheds 5 and 6 at Eastern Market, Shed 5 Flea offers a dynamic marketplace filled with unique finds, whether you have a penchant for vintage fashion, handmade jewelry, beautifully crafted home décor or antique treasures. A curated lineup of food trucks will also be onsite. Go to shed5flea.com.