Gulfport's Jolly New Look for the Holidays

On Saturday morning, a group of Santa’s helpers volunteered their time to bring a festive look to the streets of Gulfport. Sandy Duffy, volunteer coordinator for the Gulfport Merchants Association, organized the decorative event. She said that because of the movement to shop local, making businesses look festive was a must.

At a recent merchant's meeting, the idea to decorate the city was brought to life. “We thought it would be a good day to put some people on the streets and make the businesses look festive for the holidays,” said Duffy.

After sending out multiple email blasts and Facebook invites, Duffy had her list of businesses that needed some holiday cheer.

“With the economy being what it is, not everyone can afford to get out and do what they’d like to do,” said Duffy. “So we just put together a group of volunteers and said ‘we’re gonna make it happen.’”

Small businesses like The Peninsula Inn and Sail Away Realty were on the list to be decorated. Other spots, like the Gulfport Casino Ballroom and the Sea Breeze Manor Bed and Breakfast, were also on the checklist.

The group met around 10 near T and Me Tea Company to discuss the possible decoration routes. Volunteers were divided into small groups and then dispersed throughout the city. Businesses that requested help were responsible for supplying their own decorations.

Jon Ziegler, a resident of Gulfport, came out to help. He came sporting a Santa hat and a t-shirt that read “I’m on the Naughty List.” Ziegler said he loves Christmas and was excited to be helping with the decorations. “It’s not about the presents,” Ziegler said. “It’s about everybody coming together and having a good time.”

From Santa dolls to wreaths to trees and outdoor lights, Beach Boulevard could now be the tropical counterpart to the North Pole.

If it were up to Sandy Duffy, the season of hope would never come to an end.  “I personally would decorate for Christmas all year round,” said Duffy. “I absolutely love the holiday.”