Sunday August 30, 2015 5:47 PM
If you can’t find what you’re looking for at the Johnstown Swapper’s Day, then it probably doesn’t exist.
That’s the mantra organizers from the Johnstown Community Sportsmans Club espouse when talking about the 71st annual Swapper’s Day event that will be held Labor Day weekend at 7357 Sportsmans Club Road.
The Sportsmans Club touts the event as one of the oldest, largest and most-interesting flea markets in Ohio.
Thousands of visitors come to see the 750 vendors, numerous food vendors, water races and entertainment events.
Swapper’s Day began as a group of sportsmen who wanted to race their dogs across the pond on their property.
As time went on, the event became more popular and people began to bring things to swap or sell.
Just like at the very first Swapper’s Day, there will be dog trials at noon Saturday through Monday, Sept. 5-7.
Parking is free; admission is $5 per day and children 12 years old and younger will be admitted free. The event will be held rain or shine and gates open at 9 a.m. each day. The event ends at 6 p.m. each day.
Bill Tate, a media outreach coordinator for the Johnstown Community Sportsmans Club, said there are many things to experience and enjoy.
“It’s an affordable entry fee and you can spend hours there,” said Tate, who has been with the Sportsmans Club for more than 12 years. “In my opinion, it’s just a fun way to spend the Labor Day weekend.”
Items such as antiques, records, ropes, cords, honey and baked goods will be available for sale.
There will also be plenty to eat.
“People can expect to find food that they would also find at the state fair, like chili, hamburgers and hot dogs,” Tate said.
Proceeds will go to Johnstown Community Sportsmans Club, a 501(c)7 organization.
Tate said the event allows the Sportsmans Club to give back to the community and offer even more scholarships for students.
Visitors are asked not to bring pets, alcohol or camping equipment ,Tate said.
The club was founded on principles of sharing and enjoying conservation and outdoor activities such as fishing, archery, shooting, hunting and hunting dog competitions.
The club also provides a meeting location for other organizations such as Boy Scout troops, Cub Scouts, 4-H clubs, baseball and softball teams, sports booster organizations, churches, masonic lodges and hunter education classes.
For more information call 740-967-9633
Debbie Gillum Wakefield 