ABOVE: Several downtown business representatives with baskets which they will be giving away on Merry & Bright night this Friday. From left: DeAnn Eversman of Dee’s Floral and Designs; Shea Ehlert of Jake’s Pizza; Sara Cyphers of D & S Trophies; Brooke Grathwohl of indulge & Co.; Glendon Olson of Good News Bookstore; Brooke Wohlrabe of Fairmont Sentinel. Not all participating businesses are pictured.

FAIRMONT– Merry & Bright returns to Downtown Plaza this Friday night and with it many exciting attractions and features. Merry & Bright, at one time known as Holiday Delights, has long-been one of downtown Fairmont’s biggest shopping nights.

While there’s always been a focus on shopping with downtown stores staying open late and offering deals, the event has expanded to offer more in recent years.

“I think it’s become more family-orientated, rather than just women out shopping. There’s things to draw the kids like Santa and the Grinch,” said Sara Cyphers, owner of D & S Trophies.

She and other downtown business owners have spent months planning Merry & Bright as they’ve had to advertise, get businesses on board, plan and book attractions.

The event runs from 5 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 6. All downtown business have the opportunity to participate and the vast majority are. At least 12 will stay open for the duration of the evening and many will be offering door prizes and sales. A lot of the businesses also offer food and drinks and use the evening as a type of customer appreciation event.

Santa, Mrs. Claus and the Grinch, weather permitting, will be making the rounds along Downtown Plaza. Santa can also be visited in his workshop at Christmas Corner from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Reindeer will once again be set up in Citizen’s Park from 6 to 8 p.m. Last year was the first year the animals had a presence at the event and it was a hit with all ages of attendees.

“We’re excited for them to come back,” said Cyphers.

DeeAnn Eversman of Dee’s Floral and Designs added, “there will be carolers and wagon rides.”

This year, like last year, there will be a medallion hunt with clues being released every half hour at Christmas Corner. The person who finds the medallion can hand it in at Dee’s Floral and in return they’ll receive $200 in Downtown Bucks.

Those shopping during Merry & Bright can also guess how many lights are on the big tree at Christmas Corner for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate.

In addition to deals and chances for prizes, most of participating downtown businesses will be giving away a basket valued at $100.

“People sign up at your business so you’re drawing from names of people who came into your business,” Cyphers explained.

The drawing will take place at 9:15 p.m. at the Legion on 300 Downtown Plaza and you must be present to win.

“Speaking to what they’re looking forward to, Cyphers said, “Just seeing everyone out. We have so many people who come at 5 and they stay out all night. They go out for supper and shop everywhere. It looks like it will be nice weather.”