Exeter is getting ready for a brand new holiday celebration this weekend, and the local Business Improvement Area (BIA) hopes it will bring shoppers, families and neighbours together. Jingle in the Parkette will take place on Saturday in support of Small Business Saturday, offering music, local shopping and a chance to give back to those in need.
BIA Business Manager Caroline Hill says she is looking forward to seeing the community come out to enjoy the event.
This is the first year for Jingle in the Parkette, created after residents asked for one more Christmas activity to follow the town’s popular parade.
To help encourage local shopping, the BIA has launched a holiday shopping passport.
Those who also include a receipt from one of their purchases will be entered into an additional draw for $300 in gift cards, helping keep holiday spending close to home. Winners will be announced on Tuesday.
From 2:00 to 5:00 p.m., residents are also invited to bring toys or non-perishable food to help fill Willis’ Wheels of Cheer, supporting the Noah’s Ark Christmas Angel Tree Project, which is helping about 150 local families this holiday season.
Hill says the goal of the event is simple.
Shopping passports will be available all day Saturday, with participating store locations listed on Exeter BIA social media. Hill is hopeful the weather will cooperate, though she notes a bit of snow may even add to the Christmas spirit.
MyFM will be broadcasting live on location during the event.