From STAFF REPORTS
www.americustimesrecorder.com

AMERICUS — It’s that time of year again, when local merchants are making preparations for the annual Downtown Christmas Open House, scheduled for 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 17 in downtown Americus. The popular annual event is sponsored by the Downtown Development Authority and is the unofficial kick off of the local Thanksgiving-Christmas-New Year’s season.
Businesses throughout the downtown area are decked out in their finest holiday decorations to welcome the throngs of people expected to drop by and check out Christmas gift options, have refreshments, or take a leisurely stroll through Americus’ historic downtown and enjoy some holiday cheer.
Santa Claus, himself, will arrive at 5:30 p.m. in Rylander Park and will be available for photos with children until 7:30 p.m.
The downtown Christmas tree is scheduled to be lit at 7 p.m. A Parade of Trees, decorated by local businesses and individuals, will be displayed at Rylander Park as well during the event and until after Christmas.
Downtown businesses have also been dressing their windows in holiday attire for the “Best Window Display Contest.” Categories include first, second, and third places in categories including “Best Use of Space”, “Most Creative”, and “Best New Business”. Judging is taking place this week. The winners will display their ribbons during the Christmas Open House.
Registration cards will be available at participating downtown merchants. The cards, when validated by the merchants, register the card holder for the Downtown Dollars drawing. Prizes of one $100, two $50-prizes, and 10 $10-prizes will be given away. The Downtown Dollars can be spent at the participating merchants,
So get ready for a great evening in downtown Americus. Temperatures are expected to be mild although you might need a jacket after the sun sets. Enjoy dinner downtown while you’re here.
Be sure to bring the children so they can see Santa and let him know their Christmas wishes.