Fentress County businesses showcasing decorated storefronts and plenty of lights for the first Light Up Jamestown Competition.
Fentress County Chamber Executive Director Jacob Rosenbaum said the Chamber encouraged businesses owners to decorate their stores. Rosenbaum said the contest will attract customers into the small businesses and encourage local spending. Rosenbaum said he hopes many people will participate in the event in this first year.
“And part of the attraction to consumers is being in a small town and everything being decorated and looking good,” Rosenbaum said. “And it also serves to bolster community morale and our image.”
Rosenbaum said anonymous judges will evaluate the participating storefronts, driving through the square to observe the displays until the Chamber announces the winners next week. Rosenbaum said there is no set criteria for decoration, as judgement is based on effort and the overall look.
“The way that you market yourself is very important if you’re in business,” Rosenbaum said. “And so making sure that you have a good looking storefront that’s welcoming to people, that entices them to stop in and take a look, is going to bolster your profits.”
Rosenbaum said the holiday season benefits small businesses in the downtown area, attracting both locals and tourists with the annual city festivities. Rosenbaum said the competition will compliment the city tree lighting event, as the community will gather to light the storefronts following the Christmas Parade on Saturday.
“Community pride is very important, making sure that whenever you drive through your hometown you’re proud of how it looks,” Rosenbaum said. “I think that is crutial for any community, but particularly for small towns.”
Rosenbaum said the prizes will be gift basket arrangements made by local businesses, donated to the Chamber for the contest.