Kids Exchange kicks off consignment sale season this weekend

But if you're just looking to shop, the Kids Exchange is open to the public this Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, when some items are half off. You'll find clothes, toys, gear and more for kids.

This is a giant sale spanning the fairground's Jim Graham Building and Expo Building. I definitely recommend going with a plan and a list; getting a map when you first get there; knowing the sizes that you're shopping for; and ... if you can swing it ... not bringing kids. There can be some pretty long lines in the checkout. I've stood in line for as long as 45 minutes.

Also at checkout, shoppers are welcome to bring their own large shopping bags or kitchen-sized trash bags from home. You can't use the bags to collect items on the sales floor. Many people load up their kid-free strollers or bring wagons to carry their haul.

The bags are to carry your items after you check out. If you don't bring your own bags, you will have to purchase them at the checkout for 25 cents each. Small grocery bags cannot be used.