With Thanksgiving this week, it will be December 25th before we know it.
Roanoke is getting ready for the holidays, with exciting news about the annual Dickens of a Christmas celebration.
New this year, Downtown Roanoke Incorporated (DRI) plans to setup a snow machine on December 16th to add to the holiday cheer.
Also, there will be free parking downtown on Thursdays to help with a push to promote local shopping.
In its 29th year, DRI President and CEO Sean Luther says changes are necessary to the celebration.
“It can't be static,” said Luther. “I think it's our responsibility to make sure it continues to grow, and has the maximum impact in downtown for the local retailers and restaurants.”
If Dickens of Christmas doesn't bring in enough foot traffic for local businesses, new this year are extended holiday shopping hours on Thursday. That means folks have two nights to shop late in Downtown Roanoke.
DRI is pushing a new initiative called "Shop Differently."
Eric Dresser owner of Calhoun and Kipp in Market Dquare says he's thankful for DRI’s efforts.
“It's been a tough two to three years, this year little bit tougher, I think in part with the construction and everything new happening downtown, so it's important to help people to remember all the little businesses through out the city, but hopefully downtown,” explained Dresser.
“When you spend one dollar at a local retailer it actually has a 50% multiplier affect versus spending it at the mall in a national retailer,” Luther said.
For more information on Dickens of a Christmas, log on to www.downtownroanoke.org
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement