Annual antiques show, sale to benefit families in need

Approximately 1,800 people will gather this weekend to shop for antiques and other treasures, all in the name of helping families in crisis.

The Pineapple Antiques Show and Sale celebrates its 36th anniversary from Thursday, March 8 to Saturday, March 10, at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail.

Started in 1976 by the United Methodist Women, the show features an array of antiques, including glass, art, collectibles, furniture, jewelry and other vintage items. The proceeds from this all-volunteer event go toward helping families in crisis, by supporting local charities and food banks such as All Faiths Food Bank, Children First, Family Promise of Sarasota, Mothers Helping Mothers and more.

Among the show’s 40 antique vendors from throughout the country and abroad, United Methodist Church has its own boutique of donated items and baked goods, which volunteers have spent many hours preparing and organizing.

“The vendors all look forward to this show, because it’s so unique,” said volunteer Nancy Trowbridge. “The main thing that sets us apart is our purpose — helping families.”

Sally Altman, chairwoman of the show, says she hopes to surpass last year’s sales and push the total amount of money raised in the show’s history to more than $400,000, an impressive accomplishment for a show of its size.

“We’re small, but we’ve got a big heart,” said Altman.

If You Go
36th Annual Pineapple Antiques Show and Sale
WHEN: 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 8; 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday, March 9; and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 10
WHERE: Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 N. Tamiami Trail
WEBSITE: www.firstsrq.com
COST: $15 at the door Thursday; $6 at the door Friday and Saturday