Shoppers encouraged to come downtown for shopping and fun

Photo: Pixabay

It will be all about the customers today in downtown Vernon.

The Downtown Vernon Association (DVA) is inviting everyone to shop local and visit the city centre for all their Christmas needs.

Along with free parking all day Saturday, there will be one-day sales, sidewalk performers and the hot chocolate challenge.

“On Free Parking Days, we talk to many people who are looking for an alternative to online shopping or chain stores,” said Dudley Coulter, DVA events and promotions coordinator. “Downtown offers a truly local shopping experience in a fun and bustling atmosphere.”

There are currently 15 shops and boutiques taking part by offering one-day sales with discounts ranging from 10 to 50 per cent off.

And shoppers can take a break with the hot chocolate challenge from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The popular event invites people to taste hot chocolate recipes and vote for their favourite.

It will feature five downtown eateries competing for bragging rights until the next challenge.

Bean Scene Coffee House, Blenz Vernon, Mex-Can, Teassential and the Fig will all be putting their best hot chocolate forward.

“There are 150 hot chocolate passports available and they can be picked up for free the day of the event at any of the participating businesses or at the DVA tent located outside 3334 30th Avenue. They will likely all be picked up before 11:30 so arrive on time,” said Coulter.

In addition to free parking, sales and a hot chocolate challenge, there will also be sidewalk performances in the 3000 and 3300 blocks between noon and 1:30 p.m.

For more information go the DVA website.