The community-wide garage sale was started in 1998. It has grown in popularity every year, attracting bargain hunters from throughout the Bay Area, said Lauren Mende Tacké, recycling coordinator for the town of Los Gatos.

"Last year it really grew, due to what's happening in the economy," she said. "Plus, we've been doing quite a bit of outreach on this event. People come because they know that it's a really fun community event."

For many neighborhoods, the sale becomes as much of a social gathering as a commercial opportunity. Lemonade stands are not an uncommon sight.

The event takes place May 14 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. throughout Los Gatos and Monte Sereno. Addresses of registered participants, as well as descriptions of the items being sold, will be listed in a shoppers' guide distributed on May 11.

Tacké said she encourages people to participate because it is a good opportunity to reuse items instead of simply sending them to landfills.

To obtain more information or to register for the sale, contact Tacké at 408.399.5796 or visit www.losgatosca.gov and click on "What's New." Registration is free and must be completed by April 29.