Sip & Shop is a perfect blend of two previously-refined ingredients.
The community event brings together the best of the former Moonlight Madness and the Christmas Market into one experience designed to get everyone into the spirit at the start of the Christmas season in downtown Chemainus on Willow Street Saturday, Nov. 18 from 3-7:30 p.m. That’s when the streets will come alive with a delightful evening of sipping, shopping and socializing with friends.
Admission is free whether rain, snow or moonlight.
This will be the second collaboration between the Chemainus Business Improvement Association led by executive director Krystal Adams and the Chemainus + District Chamber of Commerce under the direction of events manager Melody Smythies in a short time following the success of the Fall Fest and Fun Run at the end of October.
“We are so excited to welcome this night market alongside local business specials and our libations gardens,” enthused Adams. “We wanted to switch it up this year and make something fun and exciting, something different and new.
“Melody and I spent a long time deciding on the concept and, in the end, adding in libation vendors, the libation gardens and turning the market into a night market with all the moonlight madness excitement just made sense. Everyone has a Christmas market or shopping day. This is something so much better.
“We will be lighting up the street, closing down Willow (Street) and having a big celebration with food, music and libations. Plus the night market taking up the full length of downtown Willow Street and the local businesses offering specials and discounts. It’s going to be fun!”
The expansive night market will have local and seasonal vendors showcasing an array of crafts and one-of-a-kind treasures plus libation vendors.
The dedicated libations gardens on the Willow Street Cafe patio will feature spirits, beer and wine from local distillers and brewers which will be hosted by Riot Brewing.
Local restaurants are featuring special dishes, Country Grocer employees will be on-hand to dish out hotdogs for charity and the Rotary Club of Chemainus is making its now-famous s’mores for free to the community once again.
The horse and carriage will be on-site for those wanting to take a ride around town.
Down the road at Silvermine on Chemainus on Chemainus Road, there will be a wood carver/artist on-site, both carving and selling many pieces, including bears of all shapes and sizes.
“Whether you’re on the hunt for unique gifts or a delightful night out, this event has it all – don’t miss this incredible community gathering,” Adams said.