Celebrating its 49th consecutive year, the North Tahoe Ski/Sports Swap, slated for Saturday, Oct. 27, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at North Tahoe High School gymnasium, is a beloved annual event that heralds the beginning of winter ski and snowboard season.

This year, in addition to the dizzying array of snow sports equipment and clothing, the event will offer more than just winter sporting goods. All types of sporting and outdoor equipment and clothing will be accepted, including water sports, hiking, biking, and more.

“Also new this year, to encourage more public participation, a prize will be awarded to the person who sells the most items,” said Dee Dee Driller, event coordinator. “This prize is only for non-merchant members of the public who are not manufacturers reps, so be sure to bring in all your clothing and gear. You might win a prize!”

The annual event will not disappoint the masses who enjoy getting a great deal, while also supporting worthwhile programs at North Tahoe High School and North Tahoe School. Men Wielding Fire will be on-site with its impressive BBQ truck and delicious lunch offerings for sale.

The swap began almost five decades ago as a glorified garage sale to benefit the Tahoe Community Nursery School. Through the years, the sale found more spacious digs including the Alpine Meadows lodge, the North Tahoe Conference Center, and the high school gymnasium. Now under the auspices of North Tahoe's public high school and middle school, the swap will again be held at North Tahoe High School.

Volunteer: Mega bargain shoppers who want to beat the crowds should consider signing up as a volunteer for the event. Positions are available on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Best of all, volunteers get to pre-shop at 7 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 27 before the swap opens. To volunteer, e-mail ntskisportsswap@gmail.com.

Admission and Raffle: Admission to the Saturday, Oct. 27 North Tahoe Ski Swap is $1. Also, students will be selling raffling tickets for a cash prize as well as additional goodies including dining gift certificates, boat rides, and much more.

Clean out the closet: Interested in selling equipment at the swap? On Friday, Oct. 26, both public and merchant sellers are asked to register equipment at the middle school gymnasium entrance from 4-9 p.m. Public payout and unsold item pickup is on Sunday, Oct. 28, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Items left after 1 p.m. are considered donations.

To volunteer or more information, visit the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NorthTahoeSkiSportSwap, email ntskisportsswap@gmail.com, or call event coordinator Dee Dee Driller at 530-581-4001.