PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — A part of Philadelphia transformed into a winter wonderland Saturday for the 2nd annual Old City Sip and Stroll.
Traffic was shut down on 3rd Street between Market and Arch Saturday afternoon for the event, where more than 40 businesses participated.
“It’s a great day to come out, shop local, and do all of your holiday shopping right here in Old City,” said Leah Ben, the marketing director for Old City District.
Carolyn Brandhorst had her doors open and a holiday cart out front of The Papery to draw in customers.
“Last year, it was our best day,” she said of the event.
She hoped Saturday’s crowd would help repeat that success.
“We just came out to go to the cafe and we’re like wait what’s happening,” said Emonie Landau, who was drawn to the festivities. “Grab a few drinks, walk by, look at all the little vendors, see what Philly has to offer, catch the snowflakes and have a good time.”
For the shop owners, one of the big perks of the event is 3rd street is shut down to all cars. That means they’ll get more foot traffic coming through and in turn, they should have more sales, just in time for the holidays.
“The biggest perk is word and mouth and being able to talk to people and tell people who we are, what we are, what our mission is, and what we’re hoping to do,” said Emma Landau from Maisy’s Meeting House.
Shop owners say they hope these customers keep coming back after the holidays.
“Just support something that somebody loves to do. I think that’s all about it. This is my passion and it’s great to have people support our passion,” said Brandhorst
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