The Ultimate Guide to the Trading Post at Electric Forest
If you’ve ever wandered into the Trading Post at Electric Forest, you know—it’s not just a place, it’s a vibe. It’s one part thrift shop, one part art gallery, and one part therapy session, all wrapped into one magical, chaotic, beautiful corner of the forest.
So what is the Trading Post?
It’s a community-led hub in the Forest where people come to barter, gift, trade, and connect. Want to swap your handmade bracelets for a tarot reading? Looking to give away some stickers in exchange for a snack? Hoping to trade a poem for a hug? This is the place.
What to Bring to the Trading Post
Handmade & Intentional Gifts:
Kandi bracelets
Art (paintings, drawings, stickers, patches)
Tiny wire-wrapped crystals
Poems, zines, letters
Beadwork or festival accessories
Tiny trinkets from past fests
Painted rocks, mini sculptures, affirmation cards
Useful or Upcycled Items:
Cool sunglasses
Decorated lighters
Refillable vials with oils or glitter
Reused but clean bandanas or scarves
Small items of clothing (funky socks, hats)
DO NOT bring:
Mass-produced plastic junk
Business cards or self-promo
Trash or broken items
Things you wouldn’t want to receive
The Trading Post is about meaning, not dollar value.
How to Trade
There are no rules—just vibes. Sometimes it’s a 1:1 trade. Other times, it’s:
“Here, I want you to have this.”
“Take what you need, leave what you can.”
“Write me a poem, and I’ll give you this handmade pendant.”
“Tell me your life story and you can take whatever.”
It’s deeply rooted in presence and play. Think of it as social bartering: your energy, creativity, or connection is just as valuable as a physical object.
How to Set Up Your Own Pop-Up Trading Post
If you can’t find the Forest Trading Post or want to extend the magic to your camp, start your own.
Set out a decorated box, mat, or table with a sign that says “Take One, Leave One.”
Decorate it with lights or color to invite people in.
Check in on it daily and remove junk or damaged items.
Include a notebook for people to leave notes, poems, or gratitude.
Add a prompt like: “Tell me your favorite memory,” “What are you letting go of this year?” or “Draw something weird.”
Final Tips
Trade with intention, not ego. It’s about connection, not value.
Respect the space. Don’t loot or dump junk.
Come with an open mind. The best trades aren’t things—they’re stories, tears, laughs, and hugs.
Leave inspired. You’ll walk away with more than you brought, even if your pockets are lighter.
