Looking to get an early start Christmas shopping? The Elizabethton Downtown Business Association has you covered.
Keeping up with an annual tradition, businesses throughout Historic Downtown Elizabethton are anticipating an increase of foot traffic during the weekend for the annual DBA Christmas Open House — scheduled to take place Sunday, Nov. 12, from 1 to 5 p.m.
“There is a lot of excitement for this year’s open house,” said DBA President Cathy Shoun. “Each of the businesses have been working to get everything ready for patrons. It’s always a busy, but exciting, weekend. We can’t wait.”
Donned in holiday decoration, residents have the chance to make through the walkways and visit each of the businesses. Shoun added that each business is offering a unique promotion to celebrate the holidays. Prizes, gift wrapping and refreshments will also be offered throughout the day. Jolly Ole Saint Nicholas is also anticipated to take a stroll through downtown, Shoun said.
Even though each year provides excitement for store owners, Shoun added there’s been something extra special for 2017.
“We’ve had more people coming out and asking about the open house,” she said. “There’s been quite a buzz about it, out in the community and especially on social media. We’ve been able to grow our reach on Facebook and Instagram. We’re so happy to see people getting involved and wanting to be part of the activity downtown.”
Sunday’s open house lights the fuse of what will be an explosion of holiday cheer throughout downtown.
The public is invited to take part in the annual “Lighting of the Fir” Christmas Celebration Tuesday, Nov. 14, at 5:30 p.m. in front of the UT – Extension office near the Carter County Courthouse.
Christmas-themed activities continue the first of December with the annual Downtown Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec. 2, at 6 p.m.
“It really does serve as a way to kick off the holiday season,” Shoun said about the open house. “This is always an exciting time downtown. From Christmas shopping, visiting restaurants to watching the tree lighting and parade. We encourage the community to come out and celebrate the holidays with us.”
Residents are encouraged capture their moments through downtown and share them to the Elizabethton Downtown Business Association Facebook and Instagram social media sites through the holiday season.