Asheville’s Winter Windows Contest and Shop Small Campaign Brighten Holiday Shopping
Asheville, N.C. is buzzing with excitement as the annual Winter Windows display contest kicks off, bringing a spark of creativity and festivity to the downtown area. This beloved event, hosted by the Asheville Downtown Association, aims to attract locals and visitors alike to explore the vibrant downtown scene, especially following the challenges faced after Helene.
Bringing a Festive Flair to Downtown
The Winter Windows contest invites local businesses to showcase their holiday spirit by decorating their windows in eye-catching and clever displays. These installations not only beautify the streets but also engage the community in a fun and entertaining way. Many shops are going all out this year, with themed designs that tell a story and draw in foot traffic.
“It’s a delightful time of year. The creativity is inspiring and really brightens up downtown,” shared a local shop owner, who has participated in the contest for several years. “The displays often lead to people stopping, looking, and stepping inside to check out what we have to offer.”
Shop Small, Win Big
This year, the Asheville Downtown Association has also teamed up with Bank of America to introduce an exciting new initiative called Shop Small, Win Big. This program encourages residents to support local businesses, offering shoppers a chance to win prizes while promoting economic recovery after tough times.
Here’s how it works: from November 25 to December 22, 2024, anyone who spends $25 at a participating downtown retailer can upload their receipt to be entered into a weekly drawing. Winners take home a fantastic prize of $500, and the store where they shopped also receives an additional $500. It’s a win-win situation for both shoppers and businesses!
“So far, we’ve had three lucky winners: Asheville NC Homecrafts, Lost and Found, and Charmed Boutique. It’s amazing to see the community rallying together and supporting their local businesses,” enthused Hayden Plemmons, the Executive Director of the Asheville Downtown Association. “Our goal is to bring more traffic and vitality back to our downtown area, especially during what can be a slower season.”
Winter in Downtown Initiative
The Winter in Downtown initiative supports local shops and aims to boost the economy in the area over the holiday period. The Winter Windows Display Contest, a central part of this initiative, not only entertains but also stimulates interest in shopping locally. Residents can stroll through downtown and enjoy the festive decorations while also supporting their favorite boutiques and coffee shops.
“There’s something magical about walking through a beautifully decorated downtown during the winter months. It’s like stepping into a holiday postcard,” said a longtime Asheville resident. “I love finding unique gifts for my family and friends while being part of something bigger.”
Join the Fun!
If you’re in Asheville this winter, be sure to explore the captivating window displays and take advantage of the Shop Small campaign. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the holiday spirit while supporting the local economy. Remember, every purchase counts, and who doesn’t like the chance to win some extra cash for themselves and their favorite store?
Whether you’re a resident or just visiting, the charm of Asheville’s downtown during the winter months is an experience not to be missed. So grab your family, friends, and your holiday shopping list, and head downtown to see what local businesses have waiting for you!
