The 67th annual sale, hosted from late January through early March, surpassed last year’s $2.9 million total, according to the Oakland Museum Women’s Board, which produces the event.
Proceeds help fund the museum’s exhibitions, public programs and daily operations.
“What a truly great year for the White Elephant Sale,” Board President Judy Wilkinson said in a statement Tuesday, March 17. “Reaching a new fundraising milestone in our 67th year speaks to the passion, generosity, and sheer joy that the community brings to this event. It’s inspiring to see our donors, volunteers, employees, and shoppers rally around the Museum in such a powerful way.”
The sale relies on donated goods — everything from furniture to collectibles — and has consistently generated more than $2 million annually in recent years, according to organizers.
It also serves as a major community event, attracting thousands of shoppers to a warehouse packed with secondhand finds.
Museum leaders said the record haul will help expand access and deepen programming.
“This remarkable achievement reflects the strength of a partnership that has shaped OMCA for nearly seven decades,” Lori Fogarty, executive director and chief executive of the museum, said in a statement. “We are deeply grateful.”
Founded in 1969, the Oakland Museum of California houses more than 2 million objects related to the state’s art, history and natural environment.
Organizers said planning is already underway for next year’s White Elephant Sale.