Remember to look right in your community when searching for fun things to do. Many fascinating events are happening in The Village for people of all ages and interests. There's a good reason why it's known as the "Heart of the Points," so let's explore.
"I think everything starts with our beautiful restaurants, grocery stores, and lifestyle and gift shops all in one spot right here in the middle of downtown," says Susie Stefani, who is on the board of Main Street, a volunteer-driven organization. "Its focus is on protecting and preserving our historic downtown by supporting the businesses there, bringing in new businesses, and hosting events for the community to enjoy."
The annual Music on the Plaza is always a big hit. "We have different bands that rotate through weekly," she says. "People bring their own chairs, sit outside, and enjoy the beautiful evening and the wonderful music."
The Village Loop is now open as well. Classified as a social district, people can go into participating restaurants, order an alcoholic drink, and enjoy it while listening to the music, walking around and window shopping.
The annual Sidewalk Sale-ebration is another popular event taking place this year from July 26th through July 28th. "All of the different retailers come outside," says Susie. "We have big tents right in the middle of Kercheval filled with great merchandise on sale. We also try to bring in local artists and vendors."
Other fun surprises are in the works, such as a foam pit for children. "Restaurants will serve on the streets, and we'll have a DJ too. We try to make it a fun day for families and friends."
The organization is also working on an art installation that will be hung around the fountain in the plaza later this summer. "The theme of that installation will be 'It Takes a Village,' and the artwork will be interpretations by local artists of what 'It Takes a Village' means," she says.
In the fall, there's the Art Takeover Project. "We have a strolling art fair where local businesses are matched up with an artist through Posterity Art & Framing Gallery."
Of course, the year's big event is the annual Santa Claus Parade the day after Thanksgiving and the tree lighting, which usually includes a petting zoo with a couple of reindeer.
Main Street recently hosted a Monopoly-themed fundraiser. "We called it Main-Opoly, and there were many different experiences. Some people receive a chance card and may send a friend to jail or pay to get out of jail. Or, they might have been assessed for 'property taxes' to plant a new tree in town." There was also a photo booth, a DJ, and other Monopoly-themed activities.
Main Street Mini Masters, held in April, was also successful. "We had a putt-putt golf course that went down one full city block," says Susie. "It was geared towards raising money to update our street banners and Christmas decor and paying for all the flowers planted around The Village. We're also looking to install outdoor speakers." All the money raised goes toward making the Heart of the Pointes an even more beautiful place so people will want to come and stay a while.
"As we always say, 'It takes a Village,' so we need our community to support the local businesses that are here because we wouldn't have such a wonderful place to enjoy if there were none," she says.
When people patronize local businesses, they support their neighbors, and that money then goes back into the community. People can also help continue the great experiences by donating to the Main Street Association.
"In a world where you can buy anything, why not buy the best?" says Susie. "And why not shop local for it? Walking around The Village with a bag from your favorite local store is way more fun than watching an Amazon delivery truck go by."
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"In a world where you can buy anything, why not buy the best? And why not shop local for it?"
"Everything starts with our beautiful restaurants, grocery stores, and lifestyle and gift shops all in one spot..."