As cooler temperatures make their way into Escambia County, so do the continued plans for the upcoming holiday season.

This year’s downtown holiday kickoff in Brewton and East Brewton will be held on Thurs., Nov. 16, from 4-7 p.m.

The annual Greater Brewton Area Chamber of Commerce event is hosted to encourage local residents to shop local this holiday season.

Now is the time for businesses to make plans to join, said Judy Crane, chamber executive director.

“Our hopes are to continue a Chamber tradition where on the Thursday before Thanksgiving, our area has an opportunity to capture holiday dollars in a fun and entertaining way,” Crane said. “Over the years, we’ve had several imaginative business owners who have used creativity to promote their sales.”

Crane said examples include:

• holiday sale with a free drawing for a gift;

• sidewalk/boardwalk sale;

• open house with or without refreshments;

• use local talent such as high school band members, theater group or school choir and the like, to perform during an open house;

• create a signature event for your business.

“Anyone who wishes to participate is encouraged to contact the Chamber so they can be included in any advertising we do for the event,” Crane said.

For more information, call 251.867.3224.