Shoppers Show Their Support for Local Businesses During the Third-Annual Moonlight Madness in Easton, MD
The third-annual Moonlight Madness Shopping Event in Downtown Easton was a great success for local retailers. Many stores cited the event as one of their biggest sales days of the year. It has grown to become a celebration of the small-town charm of Easton and allow shoppers to show their support to our local businesses that help our economy thrive. It’s a time for families and shoppers to enjoy the holiday season with their friends, families, and community members.
At the Historic Bullitt House, Pictures with Santa were held during the evening. Families and children gathered for a chance to sit on Mr. or Mrs. Claus’ lap and give them their Christmas wish list. “The best part about pictures with Santa is seeing all the young children and families that have visited Santa each holiday season, and to see the bond and relationship they have developed with him over the years,” Easton Business Alliance Marketing and Events Coordinator Jeff Lankford said.
The Country School offered free gift wrapping and baked goods during Pictures with Santa and Moonlight Madness. They continue free gift wrapping of your locally purchased gifts every Saturday and Sunday in December at The Smokehouse (corner of Harrison and Dover Sreets). Country School students and parent volunteers will be on hand Saturdays 12-4 p.m. and Sundays from 12-3 p.m. throughout the month of December.
“Although the raffle prizes at the end of the night may be a big draw, the real joy we get is seeing the number of families enjoying our local shops and historic district during the Christmas season,” Easton Business Alliance Manger Ross Benincasa said. “Whenever we can hold an event that brings together multiple generations from across the Mid-Shore, we look at it as a win for the community.”
For more information on Easton Business Alliance and our other events, please visit www.discovereaston.com, or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/discovereaston.
About Easton Business Alliance: EBA is a marketing, promotion and events non-profit organization operating as a member of the Mid-Shore Community Foundation. The mission of EBA is to enhance, promote, and preserve the vitality of Easton’s independent merchants which benefit business owners, residents and visitors; and to bring awareness to the Town’s historical roots and lifestyles.
First Night Talbot 2019 will Celebrate its 25th Anniversary of Family Friendly New Year’s Eve Festivities in Easton, Maryland
First Night Talbot 2019 will present its 25th annual celebration of the arts by welcoming in the New Year in historic downtown Easton. First Night Talbot follows the traditions of the inaugural First Night event that began in Boston in 1976. In recognition of the value of healthy family alternatives to traditionally alcohol-related events, First Night Talbot is alcohol and drug free and the only First Night celebration in the State of Maryland. First Night Talbot 2019 is pleased to echo the message of the Talbot Goes Purple initiative for the second year in continuing to address the need for strong and healthy families and communities.
“We are able to provide this event due to strong support each year from many folks who have volunteered or attended numerous times in the past.” First Night Talbot 2019 Program Chair Carolyn Jaffe said. “Some performers willingly ask for less than they could make playing in bars and other events due to their commitment to our cause.” The six-hour evening festivities are funded by community non-profit organizations and foundations, the Talbot County Arts Council, Easton Utilities Commission and the Town of Easton.
Festivities take place in five indoor venues, all hosting a variety of performers: choral and gospel music, dance, instrumental performances, live theatre, juggling, face painting, a photo booth, children’s crafts, and more. There are extra events planned for this anniversary, so keep an eye out for announcements as those arrangements are finalized.
Beginning at 6 p.m., the celebrations include the famous “Maryland Crab Drop” which happens twice during the evening. The 9 p.m. “Midnight in the Mid-Atlantic” drop features a community parade of sea creatures and fish hats led by a bagpiper. To close the evening is the traditional midnight countdown with fire juggling.
These outdoor Crab Drops are always a very popular photo-op for families and friends. Admission into every event for the entire evening can be made by purchasing an artful, collectible “Crab Button” for $10/adult, $5/student (through college), and children under 5 are free. Buttons may also be purchased in advance at www.discovereaston.com/fnt
“New Year’s Eve has always been about reflection and moving forward.” Easton Business Alliance Marketing and Events Coordinator Jeff Lankford said. “The 25th anniversary of First Night Talbot will do just that as we recall the impact the celebration has had on our town and look forward to the festivities still to come.”
