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Downtown LaGrange is kicking off the holiday shopping season Friday afternoon with its annual Holiday Sip and Shop. 

“We traditionally hold two Sip and Shop events per year in Downtown LaGrange,” said Downtown LaGrange Development Authority Director of Promotions and Marketing Barbie Watts. “Candlelight Sip and Shop is always held on the Friday night leading into Thanksgiving week. Our merchants fill their shops with festive gifts and décor in anticipation of the holiday shopping season.” 

Downtown merchants are extending their shop hours until 9 p.m. Friday night. 

“The Sip and Shop is geared toward adults, and [the DLDA felt] they could be counted on to follow safety protocols while attending the event,” Watts said. “The Sip and Shop event is very important for the downtown businesses as it serves to kick off the holiday shopping season.” 

For a fun twist this year, the DLDA is holding an Ugly Christmas Mask contest, inspired by the popular Ugly Christmas Sweater party theme. A photographer will be roaming the Sip and Shop event to take contestant photos.

Images of the “best” ugly masks will be uploaded to a Downtown LaGrange’s Facebook photo album where the community is invited to vote by liking their favorite ugly Christmas mask photo. 

Contest winners will receive downtown gift certificates which can be used to shop or dine at different locations in Downtown LaGrange.

“Our downtown retailers and restaurants have been able to pivot and still provide their goods and services to our community, safely and creatively, during this difficult time,” Watts said. “The Sip and Shop event gives the business owners something positive to focus their energy on as they welcome the community back into downtown LaGrange for holiday shopping.”

Watts said several new businesses have opened since the 2019 Sip and Shop. She said some even opened in the midst of the pandemic. 

“Our downtown businesses suffered some scary days back in March and April, but daily sales seem to be on the upswing for them as they’ve been able to figure out how to continue to provide goods and services to the community safely,” Watts said. “Shopping local and supporting our local small businesses is more important than ever this year. 

For anyone who doesn’t feel comfortable coming into the shops and restaurants, please be aware that most businesses offer call-in and carryout or curb service for their customer’s convenience. The city has recently designated some 15-minute parking spaces around the downtown district specifically geared toward curb service and carryout customers.” 

There will also be a Holiday Maker’s Market from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday. The outdoor market will be located in the Main Street promenade closest to Plum Southern and will consist of Market on Main merchants.

There is no charge to attend the event this year. The event is open for adults 21 years of age and up. For more information, visit www.downtownlagrange.com