Christmas late-night shopping will be held on Thursdays the 16th and 23rd in December in Yass’ main street.
President of Yass Business Chamber Jack Walker said it was a great event last year where they could see the community come together after getting on top of COVID-19.
Jack said they’re hoping to have another big event and build on the success of last year.
“We think it will be a great opportunity for the community to come out and share a special moment,” he said.
“Last year, it was great to see all the smiles on kids’ faces, as they’re able to see the parade and Santa go down the main street.”
“It was a lot of fun and laughter and we think it will be the same this year.”
December 16 is the main late night shopping evening and will encompass street stalls featuring local produce, Yass Valley’s well-known wines, crafts and some busking.
The committee is still working on the full list of stalls that will be open on the night but plan to call upon businesses from across the Valley and beyond to join them for the evening.
The Christmas parade will also feature a special visit from Santa on December 16 Jack said.
The Yass Lions Club will be manning their wheel spin with a raffle of prizes and the Rotary Club will have a barbecue.
The following Thursday, December 23 will also have late night shopping primarily for anyone who’s still searching for a special gift or some last-minute shopping.
“It’ll be great to see the community come out and support local businesses, who have been doing it pretty tough along with the rest of the community.”
Jack said some businesses have found the ongoing uncertainty and continual changes to COVID-19 restrictions tough.
“The changes in the rules have been creating uncertainty,” he said. “Especially for those businesses that rely on foot traffic and people entering their shops.”
“I know talking to a few people, they said the last couple of weeks have been a bit quieter than usual.”
“We’re all looking forward to having a number of the restrictions ease as the vaccination targets are hit so that there’s just a bit more certainty.”
Jack said businesses recognize the importance of restrictions and opening up gradually but having to ask for proof of vaccinations and other similar restrictions are impacting upon people’s shopping habits and decisions.
“We’re just calling on everyone to come out and enjoy a great event in the main street of Yass.” “It’d be good to get back to some normality.”
Photo: Christmas late-night shopping working group members from 2020. SPIN President Barry O’Mara, Yvonne O’Mara, Pam Staines and Rotarian Mick Newling.
By Brianna O’Rourke
