No matter your age, there’s something for everyone tonight in downtown Picayune.
For the kids, there will be plenty to do. Starting at 5 p.m., Santa and Mrs. Claus will be set up at Jack Read Park and around the area, children will have an opportunity to go on hay rides, pet animals, see a gingerbread house and take a stage coach ride. There will also be a special appearance by the Grinch, who will be available for photos.
And in case spirits flag, there will be two points for free refreshments—at the city parking lot on West Canal and at the Intermodal and Tourist Center on Highway 11.
For adults, a walk through downtown will be worth it, not just for the sights and sounds—did we mention there will be Christmas carolers on East Canal?—but for the deals, too. Downtown merchants will have their doors open late for the annual shop by candlelight event. We have lately expressed the importance of shopping locally, and we will say it again now: Our downtown is vital to our town’s success. Thriving downtowns are anchors of successful communities, and our downtown merchants depend on all of us this time of year to buy as much locally as we can. Of course, with the wide variety of clothing and gifts on display in downtown, choosing something for everyone on your list won’t be too difficult.
Besides, given all the festivities Friday and the fact that many of our merchants have decorated their stores to the hilt for the holidays, shopping in town will be a significantly more enjoyable experience than going out of town or shopping alone online.
So, come with friends or family—or meet some friends downtown—and experience one of our favorite annual traditions. We’ll see you out there!
And don’t forget the parade next Monday.