Shop Small – All Season Long is the message the Abilene Convention and Visitors Bureau is sharing with shoppers.
“While holiday activities may look different this year, the CVB is encouraging everyone to support Abilene businesses this season,” said Julie Roller Weeks, Abilene CVB director. "With travel to Abilene limited, the CVB is redirecting its marketing efforts to encourage keeping dollars local. The CVB's Shop Small - All Season Long campaign celebrates Abilene's small businesses."
While many businesses kicked off the holiday season in November with open houses, the annual Night of Christmas Magic event gives shoppers another opportunity to visit Abilene businesses.
Saturday activities include Christmas Tours at the Historic Seelye Mansion, Christmas Tree Lane, It's a Wonderful Life at Great Plains Theatre, and the Christmas Cruise for Food. Santa Claus will also cruise through downtown Abilene on the firetruck and stop at the Mayor’s Holiday Tree Lighting, which will begin at 6 pm at Little Ike Park. Due to COVID-19, traditional Santa visits will not take place.
Abilene businesses can pick up Shop Small - All Season Long t-shirts, buttons, bags, and other materials from the Abilene CVB office, 201 NW 2nd from 1-4 pm on Thursday while supplies last. Masks are required for pickup.
"We are excited for businesses to share photos in their Shop Small - All Season Long shirts to spread the message," Roller Weeks said.
Pictured left to right: Heidi Reeves, Amanda Riffel-Collins, and Ren Kanuss of Amanda's Bakery & Bistro.