Have you heard of the infamous Goodwill Bins? For seasoned thrifters, it’s a hidden gem. But what many don’t know is that the Bins concept started right here at Goodwill of Orange County—making the Marketplace not just a place to shop, but a piece of thrifting history.
Goodwill OC’s Marketplace, located at 2722 W. 5th St., Santa Ana, CA, has been a treasure hunter’s dream destination for nearly 80 years. It all began in 1946, when Goodwill OC launched the nation’s very first “As Is Lot” in Santa Ana. The idea was simple but revolutionary: give items that hadn’t sold in stores a second chance by offering them as-is, priced by the pound.This innovative model helped extend the life of donated goods while generating critical funds for Goodwill OC’s mission. It quickly proved to be a game-changer.
Fast forward to 2008, when Goodwill OC underwent a major renovation and reimaging of its corporate campus in Santa Ana. The “As Is Lot” was then officially rebranded as the Goodwill OC Marketplace and reopened as a 20,000-square-foot retail experience alongside Goodwill OC’s Computer Works Store. Now, in May of 2026, the Marketplace has again had an expansion and now houses 65 bins that are on a constant rotation to offer more treasures and welcome a steady flow of shoppers eager for the thrill of the find. What started as a local innovation has since been replicated by Goodwill organizations across the country, solidifying its place as a powerful, mission-driven revenue model.
So, what exactly are “The Bins?” Imagine a giant warehouse filled with rolling bins overflowing with clothing, books, and one-of-a-kind items waiting to be rediscovered. These are pieces that shoppers missed in our traditional thrift storesrstores—hidden gems just waiting for the right person to find them. Items are sold by the pound, creating an affordable and accessible shopping experience.
Part of the excitement comes from the rhythm of the space. Shoppers have between 15-30 minutes to browse before the bins are rotated out, making way for a fresh wave of inventory. With each new rotation comes a renewed sense of possibility—will the next bin hold a vintage jacket, a designer label, or the perfect book? It’s this constant cycle of discovery that keeps customers coming back.
Pro tip: Patience pays off. Take your time, keep an open mind, and enjoy the hunt—you never know what you’ll uncover!
A New Chapter: Party at the Bins
To celebrate this iconic experience and our recent expansion, Goodwill OC is kicking off a brand-new chapter with a Party at the Bins—a high-energy event inspired by the thrill of discovery and the joy of community thrifting.
Taking place on Saturday, June 27, this one-day celebration transforms the Marketplace into a lively, festival-like atmosphere. When doors open at 8 A.M., shoppers will step into an experience that feels far beyond a typical trip to the Goodwill Bins. A live DJ will set the tone, a photo booth will capture standout finds and fun moments, and a curated beverage cart will keep everyone energized with coffee, matcha, and more.
At the heart of the event is the excitement of the Golden Ticket Challenge—a playful twist that adds even more anticipation to every dig. Every 30 minutes, as new bins roll out, a Golden Ticket will be hidden among the items. Each ticket unlocks a surprise prize, from a $25 Goodwill OC gift card to an oversized reusable bag or even free treats from vendor partners. With every rotation, there’s a new chance to strike gold!
Whether you’re a seasoned thrifter or stepping into The Bins for the first time, our Party at the Bins is an invitation to experience the Marketplace in a whole new way—full of energy, creativity, and community.
Party at The Bins Details:
Address: 2722 W. 5th St., Santa Ana, CA
Date: Saturday, June 27
Time: 8 A.M. – 12 P.M.
What to Expect: DJ • Giveaways • Photo Ops • Drinks And More Sustainable Fun!
So grab your tote bag, bring your curiosity, and get ready to dig in. Happy thrifting!
To learn more about Goodwill OC’s Marketplace, please visit: www.ocgoodwill.org/shop-in-store/.
