Category: Promotions

Before, during, and after-event tips for downtown merchants

August 16, 2010

As a Main Street organization,  gaining the confidence and support of your local merchants isn’t easy, especially when it comes to downtown events.  Closing the street can impede the access of loyal customers  to their favorite shops. Hoards of event guests asking to use the shop’s bathroom can frustrate owners.  It can add up to strained relations with the … More Before, during, and after-event tips for downtown merchants

Vote for the top 25 Virginia Main Street “Downtown Dining Destinations”

July 20, 2010

The Virginia Main Street staff does a lot of travelling each year and that travel can be hard on the stomach.  Luckily, we know that when we arrive, the local hospitality of our destination Main Street communities will be evident, and the top rate dining choices will be numerous. While having an office day, we … More Vote for the top 25 Virginia Main Street “Downtown Dining Destinations”

Virginia Main Street Downtown Improvement Grants awarded

June 29, 2010

Seven designated Virginia Main Street (VMS) communities have been awarded VMS Downtown Improvement Grants in a special initiative marking the program’s 25th anniversary. Successful proposals in the competitive process demonstrated:  Measurable impacts or deliverables; Committee or volunteer project leadership/involvement; Partnerships and resource leveraging; Local government involvement or support; Up-to-date program reporting; and The ability to complete the … More Virginia Main Street Downtown Improvement Grants awarded

I want my M(ain Street)TV

June 25, 2010

When you think about it, Main Street is an easy sell. Supporting local merchants, caring for older buildings, and maintaining community character all have a feel-good quality; instinctively they’re the right things to do. And the community of volunteers and stakeholders who make it happen  sell it the best.  With inexpensive technology and free hosting … More I want my M(ain Street)TV

Guest Blogger: Warrenton’s Charla L. Malone on Main Street’s ambush-style makeover

June 24, 2010

Today, we are obsessed with makeovers.  On television, everything is given a chance for dramatic overhaul, from houses and children’s behavior to 18-wheelers and, of course, the face. Wouldn’t it be great to harness that interest and use it to motivate more people to walk your Main Street? The Partnership for Old Town Warrenton did just that … More Guest Blogger: Warrenton’s Charla L. Malone on Main Street’s ambush-style makeover

Putting events to work for your downtown district

June 22, 2010

Why do you do it? That festival takes months of planning. The parade risks being rained out. There are suddenly four previously un-calendared community events on the same weekend as the chili cook-off; the band shows up late; and the vendors haven’t brought enough change. Events can be a real headache. But you still put … More Putting events to work for your downtown district

South Boston puts on a show

June 18, 2010

The performing arts are at home on Main Streets throughout Virginia. Commissioned works on a regional theme premiere at Abingdon’s Barter Theatre.  Shakespearean tragedies move audiences at the Blackfriars Playhouse in Staunton. And audiences around the country tune in to watch bluegrass legends pick and sing on Song of the Mountains from the stage of Marion’s Lincoln Theatre.  South Boston’s Prizery has added to that list … More South Boston puts on a show