The Big Toy Swap - Kendal!
Description
Save money on your little ones' Christmas gifts and have a festive drink with friends.
Swap toys and books you no longer want - and get something new-to-you (for kids 0-7 years old).
💸 Save money on your Christmas shopping
♻️ Clear out the clutter
💝 Get sustainable gifts for your kids (toys, books and Christmas outfits)
What to expect
7pm - arrive and grab a drink and some nibbles, browse the toys
7:30 - welcome, pick out your gifts and hang around for a drink and catch up
9pm - farewells
How will the toy swap work?
Drop off your unwanted toys, books & kids' Christmas outfits and accessories before the event (we’ll share drop-off locations and times nearer the date)
Bring what you can, take what you need.
If you are expecting a baby or don't have anything to swap, you can still take items after the first 30 minutes (there is always lots of stuff for the littlest ones)
On the night, there will be a browsing period before you can take anything to give everyone the chance to arrive
Have a drink and catch up with your friends
Go home with your little one’s Christmas gifts sorted - for free!
A few rules
Items must be clean, in good condition, in working order and have all their parts (we’ll turn away anything that doesn’t meet these standards).
If battery powered - make sure they’re charged/include batteries so people can check they work
Bring what you can, take what you need, don't take the piss!
Part of The Big Toy Swap, thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund!
We’re proud to be hosting this event as part of The Big Toy Swap, a National Lottery-funded campaign run by No Crap Parties. There are 50+ toy swaps happening across the country – aiming to rehome as many toys as possible for Christmas. Saving families money, reducing waste, and encouraging people to be proud of pre-loved presents.
Huge thanks to Fell Brewery for donating beers (including alcohol free) for our swap once again!
More than a swap
As well as the toy swap, we will have some other lovely things going on:
Repair station
Simply Repair South Lakes will be joining us with the aim of fixing broken toys and helping you mend children's clothes. Last time the clothes repairers were very busy, so we'll be asking you to bring one item of clothing each! If they're unable to help you on the night, they'll share tips and advice for how to fix things at home.
Crafts, drinks and nibbles
This year as we are hosting at Ragtag Arts in Kendal, we're excited to have the opportunity to get into some grown-ups' crafts (if you want to). Paired with a drink (beers donated by Fell Brewery, soft drinks provided, BYO allowed!) and some nibbles, it'll be a lovely social evening to start warming up for the festive season.
FAQs
- Is it weird to come on my own?
Not at all - please do come along. We are a very friendly bunch!
- Is there a limit on what I can take?
We run this event on good faith, helping people save money and reduce waste. As long as you are considerate of other people at the event, and not planning to resell toys for your own profit – you can take whatever you need.
- I have a young baby/am expecting, will there be stuff for me?
Yes definitely, last year there were loads of things for babies. And if you don't have anything to swap yet you should still come - after the first 30 minutes of swapping you're welcome to take things.
- What age group are the toys for?
Toys and books suitable for children 0-7 years old.
- Can I come just for the fun and not get involved in the swapping?
Yes for sure - bag yourself a ticket! Bring a friend :)
- Why should I swap toys, rather than buying new?
Saving money, obviously! And your impact on our planet. The energy that goes into the manufacturing, transport, retail, delivery and packaging of all our Christmas shopping is huge. Swapping or buying second-hand is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint - and save stuff from landfill.
- What will happen to leftover items?
We will do our best to re-home items. Any that don’t get taken will go to local community groups and/or charity.
Previous Kendal Toy Swaps
Disclaimer
Disclaimer
Taking part in this toy swap is at your own risk. Party Pact CIC accepts no responsibility for the condition, suitability, safety, or provenance of any item swapped, and gives no warranty in relation to any item. Please check any item you take — including for broken parts, small parts, missing safety features, or age-appropriateness — before giving it to a child.
Party Pact CIC accepts no liability for any loss, damage, or claim arising from items swapped at this event.
Any children should be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times during the event.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
