Fresno’s biggest annual yard sale is still happening, but officials say don’t go

Fresno’s giant annual Harvard Avenue block sale, probably the largest in the city, was to be allowed Saturday, although city and county leaders expressed concerns related to the COVID-19 virus.

But a dispute emerged late Friday after Councilmember Esmeralda Soria said Mayor Lee Brand should use emergency powers to shut down the event over coronavirus concerns. Mark Standriff, a spokesman for the mayor, countered that the city council itself could call an emergency session to end it.

The decades-old block sale in the Fresno High area brings hundreds of people to the Chinese Elm-lined street, where everything from vintage books, to paletas, to antique furniture is on sale. But as in everything this year, the specter of the coronavirus looms over the event.

Soria said that while yard sales are allowed under state guidelines, a large block sale like the Harvard event was something different. She said she had been trying to reach the Harvard Avenue organizer to call it off, but could not get through. Soria said the mayor needed to act.

But Standriff said the council could cancel the event after calling a special session to begin in one hour.

Thursday, Soria issued an “important notice” making it clear that she “in no way” endorsed the block sale, after posters boasting of her support appeared.

She noted Health Department officials ruled the block sale “not recommended” but allowed. Two code enforcement officers were to be at the event to enforce social distancing and masks. Residents setting up items for sale also said the safety requirements would be in place Saturday, and “mask up” signs were in place.

On social media, support for the block sale appeared divided, with some neighbors backing the annual event. Not this year, answered others.

Out on Harvard, Steve San Sebastian was setting up a large furniture display. But he said sales would only take place Friday and Sunday. On Saturday, he said every item would be covered.

This story was originally published July 10, 2020 at 2:11 PM.