This year we're bringing a clothing swap to Eco Fest! Why are we doing this at Eco Fest? Because clothing swaps help reduce waste by finding your clothes a second life even after you've outgrown them!
Here how it'll work:
PART 1: Donate
WHEN: April 12 - April 24
WHERE: Collection boxes are located at the Watertown Free Public Library and Roche Bros. in Arsenal Yards
Donation guidelines:
Gently worn items. If it's torn or stained, it may not be for the swap.
Please clean items before donation.
Accepted items: shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, sweaters/sweatshirts, coats, PAIRED shoes
Not accepted: unpaired shoes; torn or heavily stained clothing; underwear or intimates
A donation of 2-10 pieces is ideal to ensure that we can collect and sort everything, but any items not taken in the swap will be donated, so the amount of clothes you donate is ultimately up to you!
PART 2: Swap
WHEN: Saturday, May 9 2026, 11am-2pm
WHERE: Commander's Mansion, 440 Talcott Ave
We will sort and display donations at Eco Fest. Swing by and pick out some new secondhand clothes for your wardrobe!
Any clothes not claimed at the end of the event will be donated via the City's textile recycler, Helpsy.
PART 2B: Mending Station with the Hatch!
Want to learn how to give your clothes a longer life? The Hatch will be hosting a mending station where you can learn basic hand sewing and how to patch small holes to keep your favorite pieces in your closet longer.
You do not have to donate to participate in the swap!
Want to help out with sorting? We're having two sessions on Tuesday May 5th, email Mia Kania (mkania@waterotwn-ma.gov) or sign up on the Watertown Helps Out volunteer site to participate!
Session 1: Tuesday May 5 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Session 2: Tuesday May 5, 5:30pm - 7pm