Yesterday, thousands took to the streets of Annapolis to support local small businesses. Businesses from Forest Drive to the Design District to West Street to West Annapolis to Maryland Avenue to Main Street all saw upticks in business as the hustle and bustle of the holiday season kicked into high gear!
But Small Business Saturday is merely the tip of the iceberg as the first of three Midnight Madness events is set to kick off this Thursday evening.
Annapolitans and visitors won’t want to miss the three nights of late night shopping and entertainment in downtown Annapolis: Midnight Madness on Thursday, December 1 and 8, and 15th. The town will be full of holiday music and entertainment, prizes, complimentary gift wrapping, holiday photo shoots, visits with Santa and special sale prices at select retail stores, who will each remain open until midnight for holiday shopping and festivities.
The WRNR Rockin’ Stocking, a grand prize worth over $2,500 will be happening again. Shoppers may visit participating merchants to register to win through the last Midnight Madness on the 18th. The stocking is filled with more than 45 gift cards worth at least $50 each to use for yourself or to give as gifts.
The music and entertainment line-up is bigger than ever. It includes returning favorites and many new performers.
Downtown will be aglow with even more beautiful holiday decorations this year thanks to Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis, the sponsor of the holiday decorations downtown along with Homestead gardens and the Annapolis Jaycees. The program, which provides most of the financial support for downtown decorations, is funded by contributions from businesses and other community partners.
“We are so pleased to align ourselves with the ABA once again during this holiday season. We see this as a fantastic opportunity to support all of the local businesses throughout the Annapolis community,” said Paul LaRochelle of Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis.
There are plenty of parking options downtown to attend the events. The metered spaces are free for three hours (from Thanksgiving through New Year’s), the Circulator Trolley will have an expanded route and will be free on the Midnight Madness nights, free valet parking is available at City Dock, and the outer garages have implemented a flat $5 rate.
For more information about the events, visit the Downtown Annapolis Partnership facebook page, and their website.
