JANUARY 2020
 
 
Osceola Fatbiking Event
 
 

Ways to make winter your best season

 
 
Many downtown businesses indicate that the post-holiday winter months are the slowest for business, and many communities take these months ‘off’ from events and specials after the hectic holiday season. They often assume that bringing people out in the coldest months just isn’t likely, regardless of effort. However, there are plenty of examples that prove this theory wrong. In fact, with the right planning, communities and businesses can take advantage of the fact that customers are generally looking for something to do during January and February and are happy to take advantage of destinations that offer unique experiences, indoors and out.
 
 
 

Creative use of light to fight the winter blues

The biggest obstacle to getting people out and about in the winter is when it looks so unappealing outside. Focusing on the visual experience is critical for attracting and keeping people downtown.

 
 
 

Get creative with indoor activities in the winter

Planning for winter outdoor activities can be challenging if these activities rely on the availability of ice or snow. For some communities, lower cost winter activities can provide entertainment during the colder months.

 
 
 

Design for all seasons

For a community’s downtown to be winter-friendly, basic infrastructure must be in place. Beyond these basics, some simple ordinance changes or minor public investments can have an impact on the willingness of residents to venture outdoors.

 
 
 

UPCOMING EVENTS

 
 

Engaging with Large Employers Webinar
January 15
12 p.m.-1 p.m.
Register

 

Roundtable Discussion Group
January 23
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Berlin
Register

 

Wisconsin Farmers Market Conference
January 27-28
Wisconsin Dells

Register

 
 

Deadline for Main Street & Connect Communities Awards Nominations
January 31
Contact Wisconsin Main Street

 

Community Marketing and Engagement Workshop
March 11
Lake Mills

Register

 

Wisconsin Tourism Conference
March 15-17
Early Bird Ends Feb. 10
Madison

Register

 
 

Find more articles and tips in our Places Blog.

 
 
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