Celebration of Lights could bring business for local shops
For many it’s a tradition — attending the annual Celebration of Lights at San Jacinto Plaza.
Thousands are expected to attend the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree and more people can mean more business for local shops new to the area.
Crews have been putting up lights and decorations all week and it’s not even finished.
Many have already stopped by to see the wonderland.
Some walking their pooches and others taking selfies.
“It’s amazing. The lights, the atmosphere, it’s so bright it’s wonderful for the season,” said San Jacinto Plaza visitor Vanessa Borrunda.
That is exactly what downtown business owners and managers want to hear.
“Families are bringing their kids and their aunts and their brothers and everybody else,” said Adrian Correa.
Correa is manager at P.D.A., the art shop and clothing boutique has only been open a week.
“Little by little they are checking it out from across the street and they get curious and they come over,” Correa said.
Those who have attended the celebration of lights know unless you’re lucky you can’t find parking to close.
Businesses at the Art Lofts, a block away, are looking forward to foot traffic in the area.
“Our downtown is hustling and bustling and this is a great time of year for all local businesses,” said Kata Decker, co-owner of Kalavera Culture Shop.
The shop that sells art supplies, local art and clothing opened only a few months ago.
Decker tells ABC-7 she’s preparing for new customers with specials.
“We’ll be running some specials with art supplies and artist merchandise too. We work with a lot of local artists to support them. Hopefully they can make some money here and get out there and create some new work,” Decker said.
Gustavo Arriaga owner of Nomu Cafe says he enjoys seeing more people from young to old enjoying downtown and attending events the events the city puts on.
“It brings more people to the heart of the city. Downtown was neglected for a while and it’s nice to see more people and more activity,” Arriaga said.
The Celebration of Lights will begin at 4:30 p.m. ABC-7 will be streaming the event live.
