Crowds packed businesses and venues throughout the town Friday night for the annual Sundown in Sundre.
The chamber of commerce organizes the event that featured late-night shopping and a variety of activities throughout the town.
“The main reason is trying to promote shopping locally for Christmas and to try to get the traffic through the businesses,” said Monica St. Dennis, a member of the chamber's organizing committee.
The ongoing downturn in the economy was not expected to have an effect on the night's success.
“I think we are in the same boat as we were last year. I know retailers last year had a very good night and I'm sure it'll be the same this year,” said St. Dennis.
The downturn could actually bode well for local businesses, she said.
“When we have a downturn less people are going to the big retailers out of town and they stay close to home,” she said.
The chamber used social media along with more traditional advertising to draw in people from the region.
More than 20 chamber-member businesses took part in the event along with many non-members.
Participating businesses stayed open until 10 p.m. with many offering special pricing incentives and giveaways.
New this year was a scavenger hunt that started at D.A.D.S. Ideal Cleaning Supplies and had hunters following clues to a number of businesses. Gift card prizes were drawn for first, second and third placings from entries.
The annual Festival of Wreaths was also on display at D.A.D.S.
A cookie walk was held at the museum which was also the starting point for wagon rides.
Santa arrived at the Sundre Community Centre on a fire truck, much to the delight of awaiting children who also got to have their picture taken with jolly St. Nick.
Other activities at the community centre included face painting, cookie decorating and performances by Move Yourself Dance and Sundre Community Choir.
The Christmas Bazaar gave exposure to largely home-based businesses.
“They really come out for this. They don't have the storefronts and that exposure so the market is a great venue for them,” said St. Dennis.
