The Christmas season is just around the corner, and downtown Clinton is ready to welcome shoppers with holiday cheer, special treats, and prizes along the way.
Clinton Main Street will host its Merry Main Street celebration Saturday, November 14, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., inviting residents and visitors to explore the downtown square while supporting local businesses.
Sarah Goth, executive director of Clinton Main Street, says the event is designed to give shoppers an early start on their Christmas lists while introducing them to the many shops, restaurants, and small businesses around the square.
And there's a little fun involved, too.
One of the day's highlights will be a shopping passport game that encourages visitors to stop by participating businesses and collect stamps along the way.
Shoppers can choose from 20 locations. Those who collect at least 12 stamps can turn in their passports for a chance to win a downtown gift basket filled with gift certificates, downtown dollars, and merchandise donated by local merchants.
Goth says the idea is to encourage people to visit businesses they may not have explored before.
Participating retailers will also hold holiday open houses, bring out Christmas merchandise, decorate their stores, and offer special promotions. Some may even have refreshments for shoppers.
Participating businesses include Silhouettes by Andrea, a specialty boutique, and Clinton Candle Co.
Goth says Merry Main Street is less about putting on a large festival and more about encouraging people to enjoy a day of local shopping while getting into the Christmas spirit.
And for those who enjoy a little history with their holiday activities, the Henry County Museum has something special planned.
The historic Dorman House, located at 302 West Franklin Street, will welcome visitors for a soup tasting, wassail, and guided tours.
From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., guests can enjoy three varieties of homemade soup, a warm cup of wassail, dessert, and a guided tour of the restored home.
Hostesses in period attire will add a touch of history to the experience.
The soup tasting and tour package costs $15 per person.
Those who simply want to explore the historic home can take a guided tour from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $5 per person.
The Henry County Museum owns the Dorman House, located just a short walk from the downtown square.
For additional information about the museum activities, call 660-885-8414.
Goth says Merry Main Street's overall goal is simple: bring people downtown, encourage them to visit local merchants, and remind shoppers they don't have to travel far to find Christmas gifts.
With holiday decorations, local shopping, a little friendly competition, and even a bowl of homemade soup, November 14 offers plenty of reasons to spend time downtown.
For more information about Merry Main Street and participating businesses, visit www.clintonmainstreet.com or find Clinton Main Street on Facebook.
