A swap event is a fun, free way to exchange gently used items with your community. Whether you’re looking to pass along your gently used items or find a new treasure of your own, swaps help keep usable goods in circulation while connecting neighbors
Gift & Wrap Swap
Gift and Wrap Swap Hosted by Saint Paul Public Works, Macalester Groveland District Council, and South East Community Organization
Don't let those leftover rolls and stray ribbons sit in the back of your closet for years! They still have tons of celebration potential. Our swap is a chance to reduce waste and give those stashed supplies a brand-new story. So, unroll the fun and give your extra wrap a second life in a new home. You can also bring new and unused items for the gift tables for swapping too.
Where:
- Solid Waste and Recycling Facility
- 60 W Sycamore St, Saint Paul, MN 55117
When:
- Saturday, December 5 from 11am – 2pm
- Wednesday, December 16 from 4pm – 6pm .. Join us for the Wrapping with Fabric workshop on this date!
- Saturday, December 19 from 11am – 2pm
No donation accepted after 1:00 p.m. on October 24
What to bring:
- Home & Kitchen: Items like mugs, unused candles, or picture frames
- Self-Care & Wellness: Unopened lotions, bath bombs and grooming sets
- Comfort: Throw pillows, tote bags, and decorative accents
- Wrapping Supplies: Leftover gift wrap, paper gift bags, and greeting cards
- Decorations: Ribbons, bows, and gift tags
What not to bring:
- No expired items
- Personalized items
- No open or used gifts
All items will be given and taken freely. Items are not for sale and any unclaimed items will be donated.
Last day to donate is December 19
Metro Transit Vouchers for Public Works Events
We believe public events should be accessible to all community members, regardless of vehicle ownership or financial status. By providing single-use transit passes, we ensure every resident can comfortably participate in city meetings and events while reducing local traffic and emissions.
2026 Reuse Swap Schedule
Join us for a Reuse Swap!
2026 Swaps:
- Gifts & Wrapping Paper- Co-Hosted with Macalester-Groveland Community Council & Southeast Community Organization
- Saturday, December 5 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 60 Sycamore St W (Public Works Solid Waste & Recycling building)
- Wednesday, December 16 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.at 60 Sycamore St W (Public Works Solid Waste & Recycling building)
- Saturday, December 19 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 60 Sycamore St W (Public Works Solid Waste & Recycling building)
Looking for more reuse swaps? See Ramsey County Environmental Center events here: www.ramseycountymn.gov/residents/recycling-waste/reuse/swaps
Past Swaps
Interested about learning about our past topics and Swap Activities? Check out our previous topics/schedule below
Reuse Opportunities
There are many ways to reduce your waste. Reducing purchases, borrowing, repairing, and donating gently used items all save money while making a difference.
Tips to Reduce Food Waste
Most food waste is preventable. Our goal is to empower residents to reduce their food waste and recycle food scraps through our organics recycling program. Ready to make a difference? Here's how you can get involved:
- Reduce your food waste. Read our tips for efficiently shopping for, preparing, and storing food.
- Collect food scraps. Compost them in your backyard or through our organics recycling program.
Food Scraps (Organics Recycling) Food Too Good to Waste Challenge
2025 Waste Compostition Study
In 2025, the City of Saint Paul worked with HDR Engineering to study the materials being disposed of by City-serviced residents. This study provided information about materials placed in the garbage and recycling at 1-4 unit residential buildings.