FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Moving can be a chore, but Fort Rucker's seasonal community yard sales provide an opportunity for military families to shed unnecessary items and earn a little extra cash for the journey ahead.

"Yard sales can be a great place to find great buys and hidden treasures," Lynn Avila, Fort Rucker special events coordinator, said. "Fort Rucker's Outdoor Yard Sale and Flea Market puts your creative mind to use. It's like having a whole town of yard sales wrapped up in one place."

Registration is currently open for sellers to bring their wares to the festival fields April 7 from 7-11 a.m. Sellers may register up the day of the event, but, for guaranteed space, sellers are asked to register no later than April 4.

"Spaces are open to the public," Avila said. "Rental prices vary based on the space required and if the seller is government-affiliated or a civilian."

Military ID (active-duty service members and their family members, retired military, Reserve, DOD personnel) is required for the government rate pricing, she added.

"If you are mailing your registration form, you will either have to bring in your ID card prior to the event or show it at the registration table the day of the event," Avila said. "If no ID is shown, the 'general public' rate will be applied."

Spaces for military ID or CAC card holders are available for $25 for a 15-by-20 space and $35 for a 30-by-20 space. The general public may also purchase space for $35 and $45 respectively. Tables and chairs are also available to rent.

"This event is a great way to clean out your garage or closet at home and allow someone else the opportunity to find use to an item you have decided to remove," Avila said. "The event is also a great outing for individuals and families to find gently used clothing and shoes for fast-growing children. Patrons can conveniently find several baby items that have barely been used. You can come out and spend the morning with us to browse all the deals, and enjoy some beautiful weather and bargain hunting.

"Much of the hard work is done for the seller," she said. "DFMWR handles all marketing efforts and reservation of space. No more taping posters to stop signs and no more strangers trampling through your yard or rummaging through your garage. This event is a fantastic opportunity to just make it happen."

Set up will begin at 5 a.m. April 7 and all sellers will need to be ready to open by 7 a.m. for the first shoppers.

According to Avila, the Fort Rucker Yard Sale and Flea Market differs from a typical yard sale as much as the sellers themselves vary. Each seller brings an assortment of items, drastically increasing the selection over what one would find in a typical yard sale. A few items people might find are appliances, furniture, clothing, shoes, toys, books and much more, all in one place.

"For single Soldiers, couples and families, everyone is sure to find a treasure from the many sellers," she said. "Whether you are looking for a new or gently worn outfit or a piece of furniture that you can refurbish to fit your home décor, the Fort Rucker Yard Sale and Flea Market may have what you are looking for."

Sellers who do not possess a military ID or CAC card must obtain a visitor's pass prior to the day of the event, according to Avila.

Unescorted visitors music obtain a visitor's pass from one of the two visitor control centers. Visitors may obtain passes from the VCCs at the Daleville and Ozark gates. The Daleville VCC is open Mondays-Sundays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Ozark VCC is open Mondays-Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information or to register, call 255-2997 or 255-1749.