Date Set For 13th Annual Fairfield Holiday 'Shop & Stroll'

FAIRFIELD, CT — The Town of Fairfield and the Fairfield Chamber of Commerce will co-sponsor the 13th annual Fairfield Holiday “Shop & Stroll” from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Dec. 11, officials announced.

Local retailers participating in the event will extend their hours and offer hors d’oeuvres and seasonal refreshments. Carolers and student musicians from area schools are scheduled to perform throughout the evening.

"This is a great opportunity to support our local businesses and get your holiday shopping done while enjoying a fun night out with family or friends," said Mark Barnhart, Fairfield’s director of community and economic development, in a statement.

Added Chamber President Beverly Balaz, "The Chamber of Commerce is happy to be partnering with the Town on this festive event as it will give our businesses another opportunity to open their doors to the community, meet new customers from surrounding towns and together, help celebrate the holiday season with a wonderful shopping experience!"

Barnhart also encouraged shoppers to take part in Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29, the weekend after Thanksgiving. The town and Chamber of Commerce will host a welcome station at the Holiday Market at Greenfield Hill Commons from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., where visitors can receive a complimentary “Shop Small” canvas bag donated by American Express, along with other giveaways while supplies last.

Small Business Saturday was launched in 2010 to highlight and support small retailers. "[Fairfield] is pleased to serve as a neighborhood champion for this event," Barnhart said. "'Small Business Saturday' is a terrific opportunity to kick off the holiday season by remembering the small businesses that help make Fairfield special, and we would encourage all to 'Shop Small' throughout the year, but especially during this festive time of year."

Businesses interested in participating in or sponsoring the Holiday Shop & Stroll may contact Mary Alice Limperopulos, marketing and business development manager, at 203-256-3120 by the end of business on Nov. 17.