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Downtown Washington gears up for Pink Friday this weekend
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
WASHINGTON — It might not be Christmas yet, but Downtown Washington is already showing signs of the season and glowing with winter cheer thanks twinkling lights, hanging wreaths, painted storefront windows and sparkling greenery. All of these decorations set the stage for the beginning of the holiday season which will kick off with Pink Friday.
Downtown Washington will turn pink this Friday, Nov. 21, as local shops, restaurants and boutiques celebrate Pink Friday, a nationwide initiative encouraging shoppers to support small businesses ahead of the holiday season.
Main Street Washington is urging residents to take advantage of the early shopping day, calling it the perfect chance to “shop ‘til you drop” and enjoy deals across downtown.
“Pink Friday is the perfect time to score amazing deals and support your favorite small businesses,” Main Street Washington shared in its event announcement.
This year brings a new twist: a community bouquet-building activity.
With every purchase at participating stores — no matter the size — shoppers will receive a flower to add to their own fall bouquet. The arrangement can be built as they move from shop to shop and finished in time to adorn Thanksgiving tables next week.
Jane Anne Boutique, a newer store in downtown Washington, echoed the excitement, saying Washington’s Pink Friday “is going to be like no other.”
A wide range of businesses are participating, representing fashion, home goods, antiques, decor and more. The lineup includes Rural Roots Boutique, The Village, Boxcar Treasures, Wolf Floral, Central Park Antiques, Dodici’s Shop, GunnySac Designs, Brown’s Shoe Fit Co., Earthly Blessings, Jane Anne Boutique, Lynn & Shelby’s Home Decor & More, and Purposefully You Boutique & Home.
Many shops and restaurants are adding themed specials to the mix.
Libations on Iowa is offering a “Pretty in Pink Grapefruit Martini” as the week’s special, with $1 off for customers who show a receipt from any small Washington business dated Nov. 17—21.
Northside Diner is serving several pink-themed drinks, including its “Pink Apple Cider,” made with orange and pomegranate juices and spiced apple cider syrup. The diner is also featuring a “Pink Drink” which consists of a blend of strawberry and vanilla syrups, soda water, strawberry ice cream, whipped cream and strawberry drizzle.
Other shops are joining the fun with their own themed touches. GunnySac Designs has decorated its storefront with bright pink bows and teased that “Rudolph” will be delivering a special drink. Stairway to the Stars is offering $5 T-shirts and dance bags, plus $5 off all regularly-priced items, along with a free strawberry fizz drink and ballerina plush with purchase.
For business owners, Pink Friday serves as both a celebration of community and a meaningful early boost to the holiday shopping season.
Pink Friday, which began in 2020, is a nationwide movement held the Friday before Black Friday and is designed to give independent retailers the spotlight before the masses turn to larger stores.
For local communities, the benefit can be more than sales. Many Chambers of Commerce and Main Street organizations see shopping local as a way to keep money in the community. This means it can help neighbors and strengthen the overall economy right at home.
Main Street Washington encourages residents to show up, shop small and enjoy the spirit of the day.
“Don’t miss out on this pink-tastic opportunity to treat yourself!” the organization said.
Pink Friday runs throughout the day on Nov. 21 in downtown Washington. Shoppers can look for pink signage, storefront bows and holiday decor to guide them to participating businesses.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
