The holiday season will begin with the warm glow of hundreds of luminaries lining the streets of downtown St. Joseph from 5:00p-8:00p on Friday, November 19. Luminary, sponsored by United Federal Credit Union, creates a joyful atmosphere for all ages to enjoy sales/promotions, specialty items, drawings/giveaways, free gift wrapping and gift ideas galore from participating restaurants and shopkeepers.
“All ages are invited to head downtown for this festive event,” said Amy Zapal, executive director of St. Joseph Today. “Whether you’re looking to enjoy a delicious cup of hot chocolate, grab a sweet treat, or get a jump start on your holiday gift shopping, it’s a great way to kick off the holiday season.”
Additionally, St. Joe Today will kick off the holiday music in downtown St. Joseph during Luminary weekend. Zapal says, “SJT added holiday music throughout downtown in 2019 as part of Window Wonderland.” Zapal goes on to say, “Last year we wanted to start the holiday festivities a little earlier during the unofficial kickoff to the holiday shopping season. We are excited to continue the tradition and to spread a little extra cheer this year!”
Participating locations include Caffe Tosi, Chartreuse Art Gallery, DK Boutique, Edgewater Gifts, Elephants Breath Antiques, Forever Books, Forté Coffee, G&M Variety, Gallery on the Alley, Glik’s, Grins of St. Joseph, Infusco Coffee, Lazy Ballerina Winery, Oh My Darlings, Olive Cart, ReVive Spa, Silver Harbor Brewing Co., South Bend Chocolate Cafe, St. Joe Community Taproom, St. Joe Today, State Street Stuff, The Cheese Lady, The Tea Annex, The Natural Gem, Third Coast Surf Shop, Wanderlust Outfitters, White Pine Winery, Wild Ginger Flowers & Gifts and more!
A variety of participating locations will offer extended hours and/or specials. Wanderlust Outfitters will feature a preview of their Black Friday sales and offer sustainable gift wrapping; Lazy Ballerina Winery offer extended hours and feature warm spiced wine available for purchase in the Social District to go glasses; Gallery on the Alley will host a featured guest artist and extended hours. Don’t forget to check out the east side of Main Street – Silver Harbor Brewing Co., vendors inside The Market and ReVive Spa will offer extended hours!
Additionally, shoppers and diners alike will enjoy a magical experience this winter season while downtown. Winter lights have been placed along State St. (from Elm St. to Ship St.) as well as Broad St. and Ship St. (Lake Blvd. to Main St.) and Pleasant St. (Lake Blvd. to Court St.). The winter lights will kick off on Luminary and remain up through February in conjunction with Light up the Bluff (December 3 through February 15). This project is presented by the City of St. Joseph.
Zapal says that many downtown businesses will offer specials, such as free gift wrapping, throughout the holiday season. “Shopping locally is a great way to get unique and special gifts for everyone on your list while supporting our local businesses and community. In addition to Luminary, everyone is encouraged to join the fun on Saturday, November 27 for Small Business Saturday for even more specials.” For more information on Luminary visit stjoetoday.com/luminary.
