By By ROBERT BLANKENSHIP – Managing Editor
For those who have yet to find the holiday spirit, there will be plenty to spare on Thursday as local merchants, entertainers and even Santa Claus himself will be on hand to bring the season home to downtown Brewton.
What started as a project to bring shoppers to downtown has turned into a community-wide celebration that features, not only great deals and shopping, but also entertainment and the spirit of a hometown Christmas get-together.
The event features extended hours for many downtown merchants who have decorated their stores with all things Christmas. Most stores will remain open until 7 p.m.
Live entertainment and an art show will be featured at The Ritz and on the boardwalk from 2 to 9 p.m. The First Baptist Church Youth Choir will perform at 4 p.m. followed by the First Methodist Handbell Choir. Other entertainers will include: Phil Johnson, Mallory Martin, Shannon Brantley and Scott Barrow. In addition, Santa will be hand to take pictures with children.
Other entertainers and carolers will perform along the sidewalks of downtown.
At 5 p.m., Santa will help light the Brewton Christmas lights.
Along with extended hours and great deals on merchandise, businesses will be offering door prizes. Guests may register for the the door prizes and savings bonds from BankTrust at participating businesses. Those include: AJ's Pet Shop, BOSSCO, Cannon's Carpets, The Garden Gate Florist, The Hour Glass, McMillan Wingate, Milligan's, NDI's Cracked Pot, Ole Willie's, Paris Market, The Ritz, The Treasure Chest, Verobella Salon, Weaver's and Moye's Printing and Office Supply.