There are a number of incentives to be a part of Midland’s downtown shopping core this holiday season, ranging from in-person commerce and activities to keeping safe at home in comfort and style.
“There’s a place for everybody,” said Midland BIA chair Scott Campbell, who was excited about the new offerings available this year.
“In its current state, the world is better than it was and there’s a little bit of hope this year, and all of our merchants are prepared to see as many customers as they can.”
The BIA (Business Improvement Area) for Midland hosts over 115 local businesses, many of which are located within walking distance of the King Street Rejuvenation project, also known as the Big Dig, which was completed this year.
On Saturday, December 4 between noon to 3:00 p.m., the Midland Civitan Club will be presenting a stationary Santa Claus parade at 509 Bay Street. In attendance will be notable season favourites such as the Grinch, Scrooge, as well as a few elves in the employ of the big man himself, Santa Claus.
“It will be a controlled entry to walk past the float displays, and you will be required to wear a mask to enter,” Campbell described.
Earlier this week, a virtual tree lighting ceremony in Neezhoday Park was recorded for playback at the leisure of residents through the BIA social media pages. Featured in the half-hour event are the Midland Pipes and Drums, the town crier, words from Deputy Mayor Mike Ross and BIA chair Campbell, with Santa flicking the on switch.
Campbell noted that the biggest difference between the 2021 holiday shopping season and last year is the eased restrictions to allow in-store browsing.
“Last year there was a lot of curbside-only shopping. This year in line with the regulations by the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit, you are now able to go into stores and there are greater capacity numbers allowed.”
Late-night shopping hours have been extended at select stores until 8:00 p.m. on the Thursdays of December 9, 16, and 23. Painted storefront windows from a variety of local artists will also be on display throughout the downtown as part of the holiday decor.
In addition, Midland will be offering its annual free parking throughout the entire month of December to encourage shopping along King and adjacent streets.
Hardships throughout the past two years have enabled local merchants to explore more modern alternatives for residents to access, such as through e-commerce websites and reserved curbside pickups.
“There are more merchants carrying local products than ever before. There’s locally sourced food items, and then some of your boutique shops are carrying more local hand-crafted items,” added Campbell.
Downtown Dollars are an option for residents who would like to support businesses by encouraging gifted recipients to use the BIA currency to shop local. Denominations of $10, $25, and $50 can be purchased by contacting the BIA directly.
“What you get downtown is when you walk through the front door you see a familiar face, and they are somewhere within the next 25 feet of you,” offered Campbell. “If you have questions, they can answer them right away.
“There’s still dedicated shop owners down here, and they’re still being super creative. They’re still bringing in unique items and they’re still putting their hearts and souls into their shops,” Campbell said with pride.
For further information on downtown holiday events and listings, visit the Midland BIA webpage.
