Perking up a ‘drab time of year.’ This downtown Lee’s Summit sale will cheer shoppers
Gather in Downtown Lee’s Summit for a day of shopping, socializing and deals — all while supporting local businesses.
The third annual Shovel the Sidewalk Sale will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 29 in Downtown Lee’s Summit. Nearly 20 local businesses will participate in the event, offering discounts.
Some businesses have giveaways where customers have the opportunity to win a prize package. During this ticket-free event, shoppers are invited to browse, shop local and socialize.
Hosting a shopping event encourages people to come out to support locally owned businesses after the holiday season has ended, said Julie Cook, Downtown Lee’s Summit Main Street events and promotions director.
“It can be difficult to find something to do in the winter season, with the weather being cold,” Cook said. “This sale is an opportunity to explore downtown local businesses, enjoy special deals and bring people joy during a typically cold and drab time of year.”
Local businesses benefit from the event because they are able to decide what sales to have and what products and services to feature, said Shara Derks, owner of Ember’s Candle Bar in downtown Lee’s Summit.
“This event is an excuse for people to get out and shop with friends and family,” Derks said, “but it’s also a way for small businesses to gain business. People enjoy come out to shop because it can feel better to shop locally when you feel like what you’re doing has more of an impact.”
Supporting local businesses is a big deal in Lee’s Summit, Derks said. Businesses sometimes worry about being able to make it from one month to the next, especially amid the pandemic and the cold weather, Derks said.
“This is the number one reason why we have the sale — so people can come out no matter the weather. We want to keep being there for the community with the hope that they keep coming out to support us,” Derks said.
Community members enjoy participating in the sale as well, Cook said.
“The response has been really positive,” Cook said. “Because businesses have a great attitude and great deals, customers are more inclined to visit us to experience all we have to offer. The community can feel the optimism, too, which makes it even more fun to shop local and support small businesses.”
Learn more about downtown Lee’s Summit businesses at downtownls.org.
