A 20+ Year Tradition of Treasure Hunting & Helping Cats
Every August for four days, HART’s Yard Sale transforms the 10,000-square-foot Exhibition Hall at the Cumberland Fairgrounds into a treasure hunter’s paradise. Thanks to the generosity of our community, the space is filled wall-to-wall with donated items of every kind—household goods, furniture, collectibles, books, toys, tools, décor, and more.
Best of all, every single item has been donated, and 100% of the proceeds go directly to support the cats in our care and the operation of our shelter in Cumberland.
In 2026 the Yard Sale raised over $98,000 to provide medical care, food, and shelter for hundreds of cats. Each year, this event grows stronger thanks to the support of donors, shoppers, and volunteers.
WHY IT MATTERS
Every purchase at the Yard Sale helps cats in need.
From lifesaving veterinary care to warm beds, nutritious meals, and adoption opportunities, the funds raised make a direct and lasting impact on the hundreds of cats we serve each year.
By shopping, donating items, or volunteering your time, you’re not just participating in a Yard Sale—you’re helping save lives.
Yard Sale History
HART’s Yard Sale has been a beloved community tradition for two decades.
This event is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a gathering of friends, neighbors, and supporters. Some travel from out of state, and many attendees have been coming since the very beginning and return year after year, making it a joyful reunion as much as a shopping experience.
The Yard Sale has also been a gateway into HART for many of our dedicated volunteers, who first discovered our mission while treasure hunting and are now part of our shelter family.
HART YARD SALE TIMELINE
2005: The very first Yard Sales were held—three in a single year!
2006: Scaled back to two events.
2007: Transitioned to one large annual event.
2005–2013: Hosted in the HART parking lot.
2014–Present: Moved to the spacious Cumberland Fairgrounds, where it has continued to grow year after year. In 2025, over $107,000 was raised for cats in need!
Press + Media Coverage
HART of Maine cat shelter raising
through annual yard sale
WMTW Maine | Aug 8, 2024
Profits from annual yard sale in Cumberland to support animals without forever homes
News Center Maine | Aug 11, 2024
Yard sale at fairgrounds to
benefit HART’s cats
Portland Press Herald | July 24, 2023
Yard sale at fairgrounds to
benefit HART’s cats
Northern Forecaster | July 24, 2023
Cat rescue to benefit
local yard sale
Portland Press Herald | August 29, 2022
Cats-only shelter in Cumberland
yard sale fundraiser
News Center Maine | August 11, 2022
HART’s Annual Yard Sale
Maine Public | 2022