Put on walking shoes for the 'Endless Yard Sale'

This yard sale isn’t measured in yards – it’s measured in miles.

The 301 Endless Yard Sale, which spans more than four counties this year, runs along U.S. Highway 301 through the heart of Johnston County. Its massive size has tripled since last year’s debut sale, which covered 30 miles.

This year’s sale, on June 20 and 21, will start in Roanoke Rapids and end in Dunn.

“Maybe next year we’ll have the whole state,” said Donna Bailey-Taylor, Johnston County’s tourism director. “That’s our goal.”

Bailey-Taylor said last year’s sale, which spanned from Kenly to Benson, was an economic boon for the entire county as bargain hunters flocked to the area.

“People were here from out of town, and they were staying in our hotels and eating in our restaurants,” she said. “It was a great event.”

Last year’s sale was a destination spot for Edna Luper, who sold furniture and home decorations.

She was so swamped selling her wares that she had to call for backup.

“They were there to buy,” Luper said. “Had to call my sister to come in. ‘Please come help me!’”

Luper plans to return to the massive sale this year.