Extended Store Hours Return for 'First Thursday' in Birmingham

Birmingham shoppers can enjoy another night of extended hours at some of their favorite downtown stores tonight with the second 'First Thursday' event of the summer season.

The program, designed by Birmingham's Principal Shopping District (PSD) to incentivize retailers to stay open a bit later, offers shoppers the opportunity to browse the shelves and try on something from the racks until 9 p.m. Participants can also take advantage of deals, prizes, and live music in a social atmosphere downtown. The PSD launched the program in May, and will repeat it on the first Thursday of each month through September.

Each participating store will have a balloon placed outside their storefront, indicating they're part of the event and will remain open until 9 p.m. 

John Heiney, executive director of the Principal Shopping District,  said
55 retailers participated last month and offered various promotions and specials. He said he was encouraged by the turnout from both the business community and public.
  
"The weather was perfect, and there were many people out- families, couples groups, and individuals," he said of the inaugural event. "Many of the stores were very busy, and we had over 100 people stop at our booth. Overall, we were pleased."

The hope, Heiney said, is to show growth this month, in terms of merchants and patrons shopping, and to convert Thursdays into becoming a premiere shopping and social event in Birmingham every summer.

It's a definite possibility, judging on the success of the first event, merchants said.

"It seemed like there was a decent amount of traffic and people told us they were excited to see the shops that they might not usually have a chance to get to during the day open a little later," said Jessica Pierce, an assistant manager at the Art Loft.

Tonight the Art Loft is offering a free gift — a botanical leaf catchall — for anyone that spends $150 on pieces from artist Michael Aram. While shopping, patrons will hear who will perform pop, rock and alternative music played live by the Four Stories band.

Maps with participating stores and event incentives will be available at the PSD
Information Booth (located on West Maple). Those that stop by the booth can enter a raffle for tickets to the Village Youth Theatre's production of The Wizard of Oz. Visit www.enjoybirmingham.com. for more information.