Maryland Main Streets Offer Unique Gifts and Special Promotions During the Holiday Shopping Season

CROWNSVILLE, MD (November 30, 2009) – More than 144 shops and restaurants located in Maryland’s picturesque Main Street communities are offering incentives to entice visitors this holiday shopping season. With the help of the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development’s “Magic of Main Street” brochure, visitors can find out about discounts at area restaurants and promotions to help them find special gifts at many locally-owned shops in any one of the 23 Main Street towns across the state. Brochures are available at participating businesses and Main Street visitor centers and an electronic copy is attached to this press release. A copy of the brochure must be presented to participating retailers to redeem offers.

"Now is a great time to take a shopping stroll and take in the colorful, festive atmosphere of our quaint towns," says Secretary Raymond A. Skinner. "With area retailers offering attractive promotions, there are many reasons why Main Street Maryland towns are the must-see shopping destinations this holiday season for those wanting an enjoyable day trip or those searching for a special gift." Promotions end on January 1.

Main Street Maryland towns include Annapolis, Bel Air, Berlin, Brunswick, Cambridge, Chestertown, Cumberland, Denton, Dundalk, Easton, Elkton, Frederick, Frostburg, Havre de Grace, Middletown, Mount Airy, Oakland, Princess Anne, Salisbury, Takoma Park, Taneytown, Thurmont and Westminster.

Created in 1998, Main Street Maryland is a comprehensive downtown revitalization program that is recognized nationally as a model for Smart Growth. The program strengthens the economic potential of Maryland's traditional main streets and neighborhoods. Selected communities have made a commitment to revitalization, and receive assistance to help increase private-sector small business investment, and improve the appearance and image of core business districts.

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development works with partners to finance housing opportunities and revitalize great places for Maryland citizens to live, work and prosper. To learn more about Main Street Maryland and other neighborhood revitalization programs, visit www.mdhousing.org.

News updates also are available by following DHCD on Twitter (www.twitter.com/MDHousing) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/marylandhousing).

Download "Magic of Main Street" Brochure

For more information:

Jacqueline Lampell
Director, Office of Communications and Marketing
410-514-7704
lampell@mdhousing.org

Rosa Cruz
Deputy Director, Office of Communications and Marketing
410-514-7712
cruz@mdhousing.org

Andy DeVilbiss
Public Information Officer, Office of Communications and Marketing
410-514-7710
devilbiss@mdhousing.org