The Gimli Chamber of Commerce is getting set to give shoppers an opportunity to win big on Dec. 6 with exclusive deals, extended shopping hours and a sweet reward via a passport game.
By shopping locally, people can help support their local economy and find unique gift ideas for their loved ones.
And one lucky local-shopping supporter will be going home with a suite of gift cards from over a dozen participating businesses. All they have to do is pick up a Moonlight Madness passport, get it stamped at one of the businesses during the Moonlight Madness event then drop it off at Interlake Brewing on First Avenue to be entered into the grand prize draw.
Passports can be picked up at the Lakeview Resort, Flatland Coffee and Pharmasave the week of Dec. 2.
“Moonlight Madness is more than just a shopping event; it’s an opportunity for local businesses to showcase their unique offerings and connect with customers in a festive, supportive atmosphere,” said chamber president Samantha Hampton. “By encouraging shopping locally, we help strengthen Gimli’s economy and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit that makes our town thrive.”
Shoppers aren’t the only ones who will be cashing in. Businesses that jazz up their storefronts and show their festive spirit can earn bragging rights and a prize.
The chamber is organizing a Christmas Business Decorating Contest in which the public will get to vote for their favourite decorated storefronts. The first-place business winner will receive a chamber membership and a $50 gift card from Johnson’s Fashion & Footwear. The second-place winner will receive a Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries gift card courtesy of chamber board members Michelle and Rayme Thomson. And the third-place winner will receive Gimli Gold, money that can only be spent at Gimli businesses.
The chamber is working in collaboration with the RM of Gimli and other local partners to offer a fun and festive event.
Moonlight Madness kicks off at 3 p.m. and runs until 10 p.m. The New Iceland Heritage Museum will be hosting a Christmas Market from 4-9 p.m. The Lakeview Resort will be hosting a Pictures with Santa event from 4-8 p.m., and Adam T. Elvis will be performing at 6:15 p.m.
At 6:30 p.m. the RM will light up the Christmas tree by the harbour followed by the Dr. George Johnson Middle School choir at 6:45 p.m. Students from the Romanna Klymkiw Music Studio will perform at 7 p.m.
On Saturday Dec. 7, the festivities continue with food, markets, fun for the kids, skating and a parade.
A Pancake Breakfast with Santa at the Gimli Recreation Centre will be held from 8-11 a.m. A Christmas Market will be held there from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., along with a Kid’s Cookie Decorating event from 12-1 p.m. and a free public skate from 1-4 p.m.
At 6 p.m. the streets will be packed with people for the Gimli Christmas Parade.
“We are always so thankful for the hard work and creativity of the recreation and tourism department at the Rural Municipality of Gimli and love the opportunities to collaborate on their events to bring even more value to our community,” said Hampton. “We also want to recognize the Gimli Christmas Elves, who have been working tirelessly to bring the magic of Christmas to our town.”
Two businesses that have previously participated in Moonlight Madness are organizing some special events on Friday night.
Hidden Treasures is hosting a Paint ‘til You Faint event from 5-10 p.m. People can choose pottery or fused glass on which to paint, and there will be a candy draw for special deals that include no tax, discounts or gift cards. And Interlake Brewing – the place where passports are submitted – is offering free hot chocolate for kids, food and drink specials, merchandise bundles and discounts and live music.
There are 16 businesses so far that are participating in Moonlight Madness: The Hula Hut, H.P. Tergesen & Sons, Salon 41, Johnson’s Fashion and Footwear, Interlake Brewing, Ship & Plough, Garriock Insurance, Hidden Treasures, Gimli Lakeview Resort (Pier Lounge), Carlo’s Cucina, Steinas, Interlake Handmade Boutique, New Iceland Heritage Museum, Deals for Dollars, Diamond Beach Jewelry and Heaven Scent.s
“This initiative brings our community together during the holiday season, creating memorable experiences for families and fostering a sense of togetherness,” said Hampton. “From the Christmas parade to festive markets, Moonlight Madness captures the magic of the holidays and reminds us of the importance of supporting one another.”
