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ROCHESTER — Shoppers will have the opportunity to hunt for bargains and support local businesses as they stroll along Main Street in downtown Rochester next month.
For over 65 years, shoppers have gathered downtown to reconnect with others in the community and to shop one-of-a-kind deals during the city’s popular Sidewalk Sales event.
“We typically see around 10,000 people over the three-day event, probably more, so it’s a good crowd,” said Jenna O’Dell, the Rochester Downtown Development Authority’s events coordinator. “People really like to be out in the summertime, do some shopping, see what items businesses have for sale and what deals they can get. People have exciting finds.”
Beginning July 14, many downtown merchants will set up goods on tables and racks under tents along the sidewalk for this year’s event, which runs 10 a.m.-9 p.m. July 14-15 and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 16 along Main Street and various side streets in downtown Rochester.
“We have over 40 businesses that are going to be offering sales, whether it’s outdoor or indoor,” O’Dell said. “You’re still supporting small businesses, no matter whether it’s on sale or full price, which is awesome. All the businesses are really appreciative of all the customers that do come out and shop with them.”
During the event, presenting sponsor Chief Financial Credit Union will be out in front of City Tavern, 423 Main St., doing a fun activity.
“Downtown Rochester’s Sidewalk Sale weekend is a Chief favorite,” Chief Financial Credit Union Director of Business Development Ashley Chambers said in a statement. “Our team loves to meet the community and share our passion for being a part of the Rochester area. Be sure to stop by and see us, we have a fun experience and prizes planned.”
Kids can enjoy a daily craft noon-3 p.m. in front of See Eyewear during the three-day event.
On Friday night, Dancin’ in the Street will return to West Fourth Street, between Main and Walnut streets, 6-10 p.m. The whole family is invited to enjoy live music featuring the ’80s cover band The SquarePegz, as well as a TasteFest.
Kids can also register for the ninth annual Rochester Explorers Club and obtain a free kit at the Downtown Collaboration Studio, 431 S. Main St., all three days of the sidewalk sales. The kit will include the Official Adventure Guide, which invites kids of all ages to get outdoors and explore everything the community has to offer through an array of adventures. Explorers Club participants are asked to complete each activity and to bring proof to the sponsoring Explorer Station — a downtown merchant — to receive a special activity badge unique to that activity. Explorers will have until Aug. 6 to complete their activities — which are geared for children ages 5-12.
“We have over 20 explorer stations … and there are a few you can do that day in town, like meet a police officer, go to the fire station or count ducks at the pond at City Hall,” O’Dell added.
For more information, including a complete schedule of downtown events, visit www.DowntownRochesterMI.com or call (248) 656-0060.
