0 an occasion when people bid (= offer money and compete against other people) for something that someone has offered to do, for example cook a meal, wash a car, etc. It is usually done in order to get money for a charity. -- （常以慈善募捐为目的）竞拍
It is a bit like having a blind auction or an auction of promises, with local authorities guessing where the level is, rather than knowing.
What is of particular importance today is the avoidance of any populist auction of promises and protection of citizens from the extreme cynicism of certain politicians.
It includes five-a-side football, a fete, vintage car show, barbecue, art exhibition, children's party, senior citizens' party, and an auction of promises.
