Ravenna – Shopping the day after Thanksgiving has become the ‘stressful norm’ in our chaotic American lives as we hit the trail running in our quest to find ‘that perfect gift’ for everyone on our shopping list. BUT it doesn’t have to be that way. After more than 31 years as a family celebration in downtown Ravenna, Midnight Madness has proven that Christmas shopping can be a fun and ‘stress-less’ event.
On the Friday after Thanksgiving, this year November 29th, local merchants stay open until midnight to welcome shoppers and diners. Some merchants even serve light refreshments in an effort to make your shopping experience pleasant, relaxed and enjoyable! What better way to get into the spirit of the holidays!
Sponsored by the Ravenna Merchant’s Association and the Ravenna Area Chamber of Commerce. The unique shops and restaurants participating will be decorated for the holiday season and the town will welcome shoppers with festive displays of greens and lights. The late night shopping spree is intended to initiate holiday gift hunting and seasonal cheer.
As is the case with the entire holiday season, however, Midnight Madness isn’t just about shopping. The M&M Railroad train will parade down Main Street between 7 and 9 p.m. offering free rides to everyone. There will also be a horse and buggy offering rides between 7 and 9 p.m. as well.
There will be ice carving on the courthouse lawn beginning at 8 p.m. Children may also enjoy the elf workshop open from 6 to 8 P.M. in the chamber office located at 135 E Main St.
There will also be a book signing by local author Roger Di Paolo. He will be at Hometown Bank located at 100 E. Main St. from 6 to 9 p.m. His book, The Ravenna Record: The People and Events that Shaped a Community, will be available for purchase. All proceeds from the signing will benefit Friends of the Flagpole. (More information can be found at http://ravennaflagpole.org/)
The evening has become quite a tradition for the community. Over the years, some of the participating merchants have also developed traditions of their own. The unique blend of specialty shops and restaurants, and the ambience of a small town holiday celebration will most certainly liven your spirits as you kick off your holiday shopping.
For more information you can call the Ravenna Area Chamber of Commerce at 330-296-3886.
