MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—Downtown Marion is set to become a bustling hub of activity as local merchants unite under the Downtown Marion Business Owner Collaborative. Their mission? To create a vibrant town center that both residents and guests can enjoy.

The idea was born out of a fall collaborative meeting where Tim Chambers, owner of Marion Brewing Co., proposed a post-holiday initiative to encourage people to get out and about. The result was the Winter Walkabout, a collaborative effort that has the whole town buzzing.

“We want to keep the momentum of the holidays going,” shared Jenny Lust, Chair of the Business Owner Collaborative. “The merchants want to encourage the people of Marion and the surrounding area to visit Downtown Marion to see all the great things that are happening here.”

The Winter Walkabout invites residents and visitors alike to explore the charming streets of Marion and discover the town’s unique offerings at 26 participating establishments. The event promises to showcase the best of Downtown Marion, from unique stores and boutiques to delicious food and drinks, fun activities, and hidden gems. It’s an opportunity to support local businesses and experience the heart of Marion.

The festive event kicks off on January 5 and runs throughout January and February during regular hours of operation. Extended hours include Third Thursdays from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

To participate, simply pick up a playing card at any of the locations. With each purchase, have the card validated. Once the card has eight validations, redeem it for a free Winter Walkabout t-shirt.

Redemption sites are Marion CVB Guest Center, 198 West Center Street, Monday-Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For after-hours or weekend t-shirt pick up, visit Marion Brewing Co., 151 South Main Street, Wednesday-Friday from 4:00-10:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

 

Participating Merchants:

A Taste of Memphis 138 S Main St
Amato’s Woodfired Pizza 143 W Center St
Ataboy’s 289 W Center St
Carroll’s Jewelers 207 W Center St
Central Barbershop 215 W Center St
Curiosity 141 S Main St
EDS the Sauce Guys 151 S Main St
Finding Center 171 E Center St
Harding Harbor 267 W Center St
Kin & Kilt 130 S Prospect St
Lulu’s Toy Co. 196 W Center St
Maddie’s on Main 132 S Main St
Marcella’s Baires 131 S Main St
Marion Antiques and Mercantile 399 E Center St
Marion Brewing Co. 151 S Main St
Max Aiir 190 W Center St
Musician’s One Stop 173 S Main St
Paula’s Posh Picks 288 E Church St
Ready Up 141 E Center St
Remnant Tea & Coffee 187 W Center St
Southern Accents 187 W Center St
Spruce and Sparrow 194 W Center St
Stitch and Skein 144 W Center St
Sweada Mae Art Café 287 W Center St
Topped Ice Cream & Eatery 127 S Main St
Yummy Treats Candy and More 140 E Center St