Today: Garage Sales Galore, Book Sale, Carnival, Rummage Sale, Food Drive

There are many special events in El Cerrito and Kensington today, May 12, where you can find bargains on a multitude of various pre-owned things. You can also enjoy a school carnival and donate food to the hungry. Check out these five options:

El Cerrito Spring Citywide Garage Sale
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
All over the city – 66 locations
Even the most die-hard garage-sale fanatic would be hard-pressed to get to all the garage sales in this spring's edition of the citywide event. There are 66 locations, operating between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. See this link for a map and addresses.

Kensington Book Sale
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
59 Arlington Ave., Kensington
Book fans know that the book sales often has great finds, including the rare volumes, first editions and signed books on the "Special Selections Table." And for extra bargains, you can attend the "Bag Sale" on the following day, Sunday, 2-4 p.m.

Kensington Elementary School Carnival
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
90 Highland Blvd., Kensington
It's the 65th Annual Spring Carnival at Kensington Hilltop Elementary School, an occasion once again to enjoy activities and games, the Rhea Wilson Plant Sale, the White Elephant Sale and a tasty grilled lunch. 

Sycamore Church Rummage Sale
1111 Navellier St., El Cerrito
9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (closed at lunch)
You never know what's going to turn up at the 's annual rummage sale, but those who've been have found many good reasons to keep coming back.

Letter Carriers' "Stamp Out Hunger" Food Drive
Every mailbox
Every year U.S. Postal Service letter carriers designate one day for residents to leave food to feed the hungry. The food goes to local food banks, like the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano. Place non-perishable food items (except those in glass containers or those past their expiration date) in a bag next to your mailbox before your normal mail-delivery time, and letter carriers will pick them up.