What are the dates of the WTVP Auction?

• The dates the WTVP 47 auction will be on air are April 25th - April 28th.

I think I have the winning bid, how do I know for sure?

• If your bid was the highest, you will receive a phone call from our confirmation team. They will confirm your bid and notify you when and where to pick up your merchandise.

I received a confirmation call, now where do I go to pick up my fabulous merchandise?

•  Just drive to WTVP at 101 State Street on Peoria's Riverfront and follow the signs to "Pick Up ‘N Pay" to the rear of the building.

What is Pick Up ‘N Pay?

• Pick Up ‘N Pay is where you can pick up the merchandise on which you were the high bidder.

Sometimes I see crazy people dressed up in costumes running around the phone area with a gavel, banging on the tables. What’s that all about?

• That is what we call "gavel breakers". Gavel Breaker’s are less expensive items donated in multiple quantities by one of our fabulous donors. These items are given a set price and the first callers to call in will be given the item for the suggested price, no bidding is necessary. For example, we always have cookie sheets from the Sheet Metal Workers. These cookie sheets will sell for $5 and there will be 10 of them. When all ten are sold, the "gavel breaker" is done. The idea is to generate some quick activity and provide a great deal of fun for our auction viewers.

People on TV at the auction look like they are having a great time. Can anyone just drop by to watch the auction in person?

• These people are our auction volunteers. The auction is closed to the public. If you would like to volunteer…. see next question.

If I want to volunteer to help with the auction, whom should I contact?

• To volunteer for the auction contact the Auction Office 309-495-0547. For more information [click.here]

I would like to view the art before the auction, will it be on display anywhere?

• There will be an Auction Preview at WTVP on Sunday, April 14th.

I would like to view the antiques before the auction, will it be on display anywhere?

• There will be an Auction Preview at WTVP on Sunday, April 14th.

I will be out of town the week of the auction, is there anything I can do to volunteer my time other than that week?

• Yes, we need people to write scripts and pick up merchandise (go-getters). To volunteer call the Auction Office 309-495-0547.

Why should I donate merchandise to the auction?

• To show your potential buyers in Central Illinois the quality merchandise that best represents your business. Gain fabulous television exposure during Auction. Donations can be in the form of certificates, actual merchandise, in-kind services or cash. PLUS, you receive a tax-deduction for your donation as allowable by law. For more information [click here]

I have some really cool merchandise that I would like to donate to the auction to get some exposure for my business. What do I do?

• Call to donate merchandise at 309-495-0547. For more information [click here]

How can I order an auction shirt?

• Auction shirts can be ordered by calling 309-495-0547. The shirts are available in short sleeve and long sleeve. Sweatshirts and polo (golf) shirts are also available with the auction logo embroidered on the front.  For more information [click here]

I would like to donate merchandise to the auction to promote my business, what kinds of merchandise do you accept?

• We accept most anything. To see our wish list [click here]

• We can not accept Live firearms, animals, plants, and alcohol (wine is acceptable.)

In past years, I’ve called in my bid. You ask for the same information every time I call in. Is there a way for me to give that information to you once and you have it on file the next time I call?

• Yes, we have Express Bid numbers you can register for at the cost of $6. The advantages of an Express Bid number are:

• You have the option of having your items held until the last day of Pick Up ‘N Pay, which this year will be Monday, April 29th.

• You save valuable bidding time when you call in your bid. With an Express Bid number, you provide only the express bid number (and a current phone number) before registering your bid.

• To get an Express Bid number, contact the Auction Office 309-495-0547 or [click here].

It seems like the auction has been on since I was a little kid, how long has it been on the air?

• This will be the 40th anniversary of the first auction in 1973.

What’s the difference between a lightning board and a red board?

• The value of the merchandise on the boards and the amount of time the merchandise is available for bidding. Red Board Items have values between $150 and $499 and are featured twice by our Auctioneers. Lightning Board items have values between $50 and $149 and are shown only once.

I volunteered to help with the auction, but I have a conflict and need to cancel. Who can I notify?

• Call the Auction Office, 309-495-0547.

When I call in a bid, what information do I need to provide?

• We will need your first and last name, phone number where you can be reached for confirmation for the next 2 hours, address, item number you wish to bid on and your bid amount.