It’s time to go “a-wassailing” again, like the historic Christmas carol says. Instead of singing carols door-to-door, stroll around downtown Bryan with a hot, seasonal drink while visiting your favorite shops. Wine and Wassail is the post-Thanksgiving event that allows guests to continue the holiday celebration, and it’s returning for the fifth year on Saturday, November 24, from 4 to 8 p.m.
Fourteen businesses in downtown Bryan are cooperating to offer guests the opportunity to explore their stores, buy gifts, and enjoy a warm indulgence. Abigail Noel, Marketing Coordinator for Downtown Bryan Association, says, “Wine and Wassail is a self-paced shopping and wine tasting event.”
This holiday celebration is scheduled on Small Business Saturday, which was established in 2010 and occurs nationwide on the Saturday following Thanksgiving. Those who attend are able to shop locally and support Bryan’s own small businesses.
“We like to promote holiday shopping in Downtown Bryan during this time,” Noel explains, “and the entire downtown will be glowing with Christmas lights.” Further, after paying event costs, the Downtown Bryan Association will gift the remaining proceeds to the Queen Theatre’s restoration project.
Shops such as Market 1023, Brazos Glassworks, and Bird’s Nest Gifts & Antiques will participate in the popular event, offering their wares to kick off the Christmas shopping season. Catalena Hatters will also open in case you want to gift someone with a cowboy hat fit for any Texan. Regarding the timely shopping opportunity, Noel says, “We have many people who love this event because it’s during the holidays, and they can do their holiday shopping all while having fun with friends and tasting wine.”
In addition to serving the two beverages referenced in the event’s name, Downtown Bryan will offer warm, festive drinks such as hot chocolate and cider to send away the wintry chill. With the purchase of a ticket, guests will receive a canvas shopping bag, a map of shops involved in the event, and a wine glass sip from during and after the event. Further, Noel adds, “Guests will have a chance to participate in a wine pull at check in.” Wine and Wassail’s check-in will open at 3:30 p.m. at the Palace Theater.
If you still feel as stuffed as the turkey you cooked for Thanksgiving, come walk around Bryan to get a head start on your holiday shopping and to enjoy a festive beverage. To continue the holiday cheer, guests may purchase tickets from Downtown Bryan’s website for $30 until November 23 or at the event for $35. It’s better to buy these early, as there are only 250 tickets and the event might sell out. Come enjoy the ambiance and entrepreneurship of Downtown Bryan on Small Business Saturday!
