Store owners in Downtown Twin Falls eager for a boost in business from holiday parade

TWIN FALLS, Idaho (KMVT/KSVT) — Friday evening, thousands of people will fill Downtown Twin Falls for the annual Festival of Lights Parade. We caught up with the owners of nearby storefronts, who say the event could also bring with it an important holiday boost in business.

“With different events, it does draw people downtown, and it is shocking to them to see all the amazing stores down here,” said Tawnya Tinsley, owner of Fashion 15 and Trends.

During the parade, more than 70 festive floats will cruise down Main Avenue amidst a sea of spectators. Nearby business owners are hoping that will also lead to an influx of paying customers.

“Generally speaking, we would be really slow on the Friday of the parade, and I am hoping this is going to be a nice change,” said Annie Aguilar, who owns Canyon Rim Crafts & Boutique.

Back in October, Canyon Rim Crafts & Boutique relocated from the Magic Valley Mall to downtown. Aguilar admits that while business can be slower during the colder months, community events like the parade help keep customers coming in.

“I think that is what the community is trying to do when they do these events, trying to bring everybody together,” Aguilar told KMVT. “That’s what I love about Twin Falls because we are a smaller community, but when we do an event, we do it well.”

Aside from the business impacts of the parade, other store owners like Rachel Irwin of Fox Floral, say participating in the event is a coveted holiday staple.

“It has become a family tradition of ours, being down here. Our kids come down, they dress up, they go out front. They sell hot cocoa and cookies.” Irwin said.

Fox Floral has been in business for more than 70 years, but Irwin says every time the parade comes to town, new customers stroll in for the first time.

And in case you forget to dress for the occasion, Tawnya Tinsley says Fashion 15 has you covered.

“I remember last year when the parade happened, people came in for beanies and scarfs, extra layering pieces. So, we definitely have a wide variety of all of that to offer,” she said.

A great opportunity to enjoy some holiday fun, and also get some of your holiday shopping done at local businesses.

“We will have our doors open for business until people stop coming in!” Aguilar exclaimed.