Open House Kicks Off Holiday Season
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Chamber Report
By Jessie Gurner
It’s that time of year again when the air starts to change. The mornings are cooler, the afternoons golden, and you can feel that quiet excitement building, the kind that means the holidays aren’t far off. Even with rain in the forecast for part of the week, everyone seems ready for what’s ahead. Around here, the holiday shopping season doesn’t tiptoe in. It arrives with a smile, a chili spoon, and a shopping bag in hand.
The Water Valley Area Chamber of Commerce is ready to start the season with one of our favorite traditions: the Christmas Open House, coming up Saturday, November 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
More than 25 local businesses will open their doors with special sales, door prizes, and plenty of friendly faces to welcome you inside. It’s the kind of day that reminds you why shopping local feels so good. Instead of standing in line under fluorescent lights somewhere else, you can stroll down Main Street, pop into your favorite shops, and hear someone call you by name.
If you’re someone who likes to get a jump on gift shopping, this is your day. You’ll find everything from handmade art and jewelry to home décor, clothing, and gifts for everyone on your list. And if you’re more of a browser than a buyer, that’s fine too. No one minds if you just want to soak in the atmosphere, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy the day.
When you make a purchase at any participating business, be sure to register for the $500 grand prize Chamber gift certificate, which can be used exclusively at Chamber member businesses. Every time you shop, your name goes into the drawing, and one lucky shopper will take home that grand prize at 3 p.m., just in time to make their Christmas shopping a whole lot more fun.
And because Water Valley likes to mix a little flavor with its festivities, the Rotary Club of Water Valley will host a Chili Cook-Off that same day at the Pocket Park downtown. The competition is open to anyone brave enough to bring their best pot of chili and face the judges. Even if you’re not cooking, it’s a great spot to stop by, sample some chili, and visit with neighbors.
In addition to a full day of shopping and sampling, you can head over to Shuffield Park for the first-ever Tailgate in the Valley. A giant screen will turn the park into the ultimate outdoor living room as everyone gathers to watch the Ole Miss vs. Florida football game together. Bring a lawn chair, wear your team colors, and enjoy the game with friends and neighbors. Food vendors and local groups will be there too, making it a relaxed, family-friendly way to enjoy the day.
Between the Open House, the Chili Cook-Off and the Tailgate, November 15 is shaping up to be one of those classic Saturdays that remind us why Water Valley feels like home. You can shop, eat, cheer and spend the day surrounded by the same friendly faces that make this town special.
As the Chamber likes to remind everyone this time of year, shopping local really does matter. Every dollar spent here stays here. It helps local families, supports small businesses, and keeps our community strong. Whether you’re buying a gift, a sandwich, or a tank of gas, it all adds up.
For more information about the Open House, call Zandra Walker at (662) 473-1122.
