Thrift Stores or Yard Sales?
 

Is the idea of thrift stores and yard sales an American one, or will we find little gems in Ireland too? Knowing my Irish immigrant grandparents, the Irish seem to be an already thrifty people so I am guessing the answer is no, but thought I would ask!!

There are charity shops in Ireland.
I don't know what a yard sale is, but you will certainly see car-boot sales

I think you might find "car boot sales" where people get together in a parking lot somewhere and sell out of their car trunks.

When I lived there the local churches had "bring and buy" sales which were basically what we called rummage sales at home.

And some towns may still have market days, where what are basically flea markets will set up - everyone has an area where they sell stuff, whether it be produce, antiques, or junk :) I've seen it more often in the UK, but sometimes in Ireland.

Dublin has three OXFAM stores, and they are located elsewhere, as well. Also look for St.Vincent de Paul outlets. Just google "charity stores".

I think the weather in Ireland makes yard sales a bit problematic - since you really need a guarantee of dry weather. Car boot is a sort of substitute - but obviously not for larger items. On the other hand not sure a tourist would be looking for larger items.