Downtown Chatham will be putting it’s best fashion foot forward Sept. 9 for the first Downtown in the City Extravaganza.
Event spokesman Jim Carrington said the idea for a fashion-themed event has been circulating since Fashion in the City two years ago.
“We’ve had all kinds of people saying we should do something like that again. I was just thinking about an open house for my business (Collins Formal Wear) to feature tuxedos. I told a few people and the idea got a whole lot bigger in a hurry.”
Carrington said a volunteer committee was formed, “people I know and trust”, and plans came together quickly.”
He said the event will have a “black and white” theme including a white fire truck being brought in by Brent DeNure.
“We’re closing King Street from Third to William Street and we will be having a travelling block party so to speak,” he said.
There will be three pop-up fashion shows; 5 p.m. on west block of the street, 6 p.m. inside the Downtown Chatham Centre and 7 p.m. inside Retro Suites.
Patricia M. Productions will be co-ordinating the fashion shows.
There will also be performances from Cornell’s Irish School of Dance, Chatham Gymnastics and Snow’s Martial Arts.
As part of the promotion, the Historic Downtown Chatham BIA will be issuing passports, which shoppers can take to businesses and get stamped.
“Stamped passports will be entered in a chance to win a $100 gift card at any of the participating businesses,” he said.
Participating businesses include Chatham Capitol Theatre; Platinum Boutique; Purple Pansy; Bud Gowan; Enchantment Bridal; Collins Formal; The Loft; Barrypatch Collectible; ARTspace; Goldcoast; Fx Decorating; Sears; Blue Notes; Suzy Shier; Haute Pink; Northern Reflections; Cleo/Ricki; Precious Cargo; Main St. Barber; Bentley’s and Charmed Diamonds; Downtown Deli; Lady Blackbird Boutique; Nina Marie; Rachel’s Room and the Paper Pickle.
Each participating business will be offering their own unique in-store special.
There will be a band playing on the rooftop of the Capitol and Brandon Babkirk, a talented young singer and guitarist will be on hand downtown as well.
A beer tent operated by Chatham Big Brothers and Big Sisters will also be set up on the street, lending to the festival atmosphere.
“We’re using the event to showcase downtown and all that it offers,” Carrington said. “There’s more down here than people think. If you haven’t been here in a while, come on down.”
Carrington said he hopes people use the opportunity as a “date night” or just an evening out with the kids.
“You can come down and enjoy a walk, some shopping and entertainment,” he said. “We’re going to give you the kind of atmosphere that only a downtown can provide.”
