A group of downtown Festus and Crystal City businesses are joining the Small Business Saturday movement by holding the first-ever Stocking Stroll from 5-8 p.m. tonight (Nov. 24).
For the Stocking Stroll, which is sponsored by the participating merchants and the Historic Tanglefoot Association, participating businesses will stay open late and offer specials, treats and activities.
"We are trying to get everyone in the Christmas spirit," said Melody Yesberg, organizer and owner of Celebrations Unlimited. "Instead of each of us having our own open house or special event, we are working together, tying in with Small Business Saturday and asking people to shop small businesses this season."
In all, 13 downtown merchants and restaurants are participating. Stocking Stroll shoppers and diners may bring their own stockings to collect treats, coupons and other items from participating merchants.
"Each business will decide what they want to do," Yesberg said. "I know we will have some drawings and specials."
Local artists will display their work in businesses.
"We are asking people who come to get into the holiday season – wear your ugly sweater or your holiday jewelry," Yesberg said. "It should be fun and festive."
Shoppers and diners are encouraged to play the Stocking Stroll game for a chance to win "Main Street Money."
For the game, visit participating merchants to get stickers to place on entry cards. The entry cards may be picked up at either Judy's Flower Basket, Kennedy's Catchall or the Zen Zoo Fitness.
After collecting 13 stickers, return the completed card to one of the three entry locations to be entered in a drawing for "Main Street Money."
"We will be giving away at least $325 in 'Main Street Money' in $25 certificates," Yesberg said.
Winners will be notified Monday, Nov. 26.
"Main Street Money" can be spent like cash at any participating merchant and must be redeemed by Christmas Eve.
Participating businesses include Fisher's Barbershop Deluxe, 221 E. Main St.; Father Time Clock Shop and Antiques, 123 E. Main St.; Celebrations Unlimited Party Supply, 39 E. Main St.; Pogolino's Pizza and More, 29 E. Main St.; Judy's Flower Basket, 202 E. Main St.; Strings Clothing Co., 34 E. Main St.; Metro Office/Hallmark Gold Crown, 102 E. Main St.; The Daisy Chain, 107 N. Mill St.; All the Rage Comics, 204 E. Main St.; Main and Mill Brewing Co., 240 E. Main St.; Kennedy's Catchall & Auction House, 10 E. Main St.; The Zen Zoo Fitness Studio, 414 W. Main St.; Bathhouse Boutique on Bailey, 515 Bailey Road.
The event is designed to bring shoppers to the downtown businesses, to show off new businesses and to remind shoppers about local merchants and restaurants that have been around for years.
"It's a shopping night for adults," Yesberg said. "Kids have Halloween. So now we have Stocking Stroll for adults on Main Street. You should be able to find gifts and holiday ideas. And you are supporting local businesses."
Information about the Stocking Stroll is available on the Small Business Saturday Stocking Stroll Facebook event.