Happy New Year! Recap of 2023

Happy New Year! As we welcome 2024, we'd like to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we had in 2023. It was a year filled with community, music, celebration, and support for local businesses.

Recap of 2023: A Year to Remember

June/July 2023: Main Street LIVE! 19th Anniversary In the heart of summer, Main Street LIVE! celebrated its 19th year of concerts with eight weeks of fantastic shows. We are thrilled to announce that over 8,000 people gathered in downtown McMinnville, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, delicious local food, unique shopping experiences, and the power of live music.

August 2023: Farm to Table Fundraiser Success Our Farm to Table fundraiser in August exceeded all expectations! Thanks to the generosity of our community, we raised over $7,000. These funds will be used for grant matching in our upcoming grant cycle, allowing us to continue supporting local initiatives and projects that enhance our community.

August/September 2023: Back to School Bash and Pioneer Pep Rally As summer transitioned to fall, we hosted the Back to School Bash and Pioneer Pep Rally, dedicated to supporting our local schools and students. These events not only brought excitement downtown but also helped create a sense of unity among our community members.

 October: Downtown Trick or Treating  In October, we organized our Downtown Trick or Treat in which over 2,000 kids were able to enjoy the afternoon with our local businesses!  We also organized a Special Needs Trick or Treating with McMinnville Special Games, promoting inclusivity and building rapport within our community. The event showcased McMinnville as an inclusive and welcoming community for everyone.

November/December: Small Business Saturday Promotion Embracing the holiday spirit, Main Street joined forces with the Chamber of Commerce for a month-long Small Business Saturday promotion. Open houses, free promotional marketing for business members, and incentives like Downtown Dollars from our bank sponsors encouraged citizens to shop locally, fostering a stronger community bond.

Second Saturdays from April to December;  Throughout the year, Main Street orchestrated Second Saturdays, a monthly promotion encouraging patrons to visit downtown for extended hours of shopping and dining with live music going on downtown. 

November/December: Flip the Switch Ceremony and Christmas Second Saturday Closing out the year on a high note, Main Street partnered with various investors to offer the community a Flip the Switch ceremony and Christmas Second Saturday. Mrs. Claus storybook reading, ornament making, free carriage rides, apple cider, and Santa pictures brought joy to over 200 kids and their families.

As we bid farewell to 2023, anticipation fills the air for the fresh start that 2024 promises! Plans are already underway for dynamic events and promotions to uplift our downtown, and exciting developments are in the works.

In January 2024, we are elated to announce the receipt of the Downtown Improvement Grant! This grant reflects our unwavering commitment to revitalizing the heart of our community. As part of this initiative, we will be offering facade grants to businesses situated within our downtown historic district. Stay tuned for forthcoming details regarding the application process, providing you with the opportunity to apply and enjoy the benefits of this thrilling prospect.

Here's to a New Year filled with prosperity, joy, and the continued enhancement of our beloved downtown! Cheers to 2024!