By: Laura McLively, author & sustainability activist
This holiday season, the Davis community is invited to embrace the spirit of generosity and sustainability at its first ever Buy-Nothing Holiday Gift Swap, a free event that reimagines how we give during the holidays.
The idea is simple: bring gift-worthy items you no longer need, and “shop” for treasures that others have donated—all without spending a dime. It’s a fun, eco-friendly way to find thoughtful holiday gifts, clear out clutter, and connect with neighbors in the true spirit of giving.
The swap will take place Sunday, November 16, from 10a to 12p at Cesar Chavez Elementary School’s Multipurpose Room (MPR), with 9:30a arrival for anyone bringing donations in order to set up and get a first pass at “shopping.”
The Buy-Nothing Holiday Gift Swap is not just about saving money—though that’s a bonus—it’s about reducing waste and giving new life to things we already have. We’re creating a space where generosity isn’t tied to consumerism.
How It Works
Participants are encouraged to bring gently used, clean, and functional items that could make great gifts for someone else. After setting them out in the designated sections, you’re free to browse and take home items that catch your eye—no money exchanged, and no need to bring as much as you take. You may want to leave kids at home so you can surprise them over the holidays with the gifts you pick up at the swap.
Accepted categories of gifts include:
- Children’s books, puzzles, toys, and games
- Sports and outdoor equipment
- Household décor
- Adult books, games, and puzzles
- Tools and craft supplies
- Gift wrap, bags, and bows
- Any other fun or unique item that might make a great gift
- Please note: clothing is not accepted at this event
This event is open to everyone, regardless of whether they bring items or not. All leftover items at the end of the swap will be donated to Empower Yolo, a non-profit organization in Yolo County that provides services to support victims of domestic violence and other crises, ensuring that nothing goes to waste.
Host Your Own No-Buy Gift Swap
Want to bring this idea to your school, workplace, or neighborhood? Hosting a no-buy gift swap is simple and impactful. Here’s how:
- Secure a space — a community center, school gym, or even someone’s garage can work.
- Set a date and time before the holidays.
Spread the word through flyers, emails, social media, and word-of-mouth. - Decide on categories of accepted items (toys, books, household goods, etc.) and set clear guidelines (e.g., no clothing, only gently used items).
Organize by zones so people can easily browse by category. - Have a donation plan for leftover items, ideally to a shelter, school, or nonprofit.
- Make it festive — play music, offer cider, or decorate to add holiday cheer.
By sharing what we already have, we create a more connected, generous, and sustainable community. Join us in giving differently this season, because giving generously doesn’t mean buying endlessly. The best gifts don’t need to cost you—or the planet—anything.
