Leaves are still flying, but thoughts among downtown business leaders have turned toward the holidays — Thanksgiving, Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hannukah and New Year’s.
The Downtown Business Council has begun planning for the annual Hood River Holidays celebration, and hopes
to expand the energy throughout the community. Many of the activities will be sited downtown, but all Chamber
members in Hood River are encouraged to take part. What does that mean? It means decorating your storefront in holiday lights and garlands. A storefront judging contest will award prizes to the two best-dressed businesses.
It means planning activities designed to boost holiday spirits, and attract shoppers into your stores. If you’ve got something planned, tell us about it at 541.386.8860 and we will spread the word.
Event organizers are working with the Hood River News to design a special pullout section (with advertising) that will list all the major holiday events from Nov. 28 through Dec. 25. Extra copies of the section will be made available to businesses for distribution to visitors during the holiday season.
Helping local shoppers get a jump-start on holiday gift buying, Hood River merchants will roll out the deals and discounts during their annual Downtown Open House the weekend of Nov. 21-22.
As is custom, the annual Holiday Parade will take place on Friday, Dec. 4. After the parade concludes, the Mayor and other dignitaries will launch Hood River Holidays with the lighting of the giant Christmas tree at Overlook Park. The Polar Express excursion trains operated by the Mt. Hood Railroad will provide a major visitor boost to downtown
from Nov. 13 through Dec. 23.
Spread the word — the City of Hood River has generously offered to waive parking fees (and fines) during the holiday period from Friday, Dec. 4 through Saturday, Dec. 26. Parking meters and enforcement resume on Monday, Dec. 28.
Whether you’re downtown, in the Heights or along West Cascade, the Chamber encourages you to shop local this holiday season!
