Downtown Owensboro will turn into a hub of shopping, music, and community spirit on May 22 as local leaders launch the first-ever Downtown Small Biz Crawl — a daylong celebration of the small businesses that bring life to the city’s riverfront district. From prize giveaways and pop-up shops to live music and social media contests, the event promises an energetic showcase of the entrepreneurs who keep downtown buzzing.
The initiative is being led by Downtown Owensboro Inc. in partnership with the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) and the City of Owensboro. The all-day event is part of National Small Business Month.
Shoppers are invited to explore the area throughout the day, with a chance to win cash prizes by submitting receipts from participating businesses. Receipts can be turned in at the Hampton Inn Riverfront on May 22 or by 10 a.m. the following day. Each receipt counts as one entry for a $500 grand prize or one of five $100 prizes. Winners will be announced live on May 23.
“We’re working to create a fun, welcoming atmosphere all day and all night long, with music on multiple blocks and something for everyone,” said Tamarra Brasher, owner of Brasher’s Lil Nashville and live music coordinator for the event.
Live music will be featured throughout downtown, including a WBKR broadcast. A full lineup of performers will be announced in the coming days.
Participating businesses located within the Downtown Overlay District can sign up to be included on the official crawl map at edc.owensboro.com/crawl. Businesses outside the district are encouraged to partner with downtown locations to host pop-up shops or activations.
Special photo ops and social media challenges will be set up across the district, giving attendees more chances to win prizes and share their experience.
“This is a fantastic way to showcase the businesses that make downtown Owensboro such a vibrant destination,” said Amy Gilmore, owner of Gramps Coffee & Donuts and chair of Downtown Owensboro Inc. “We’re excited to celebrate our small business owners and invite the whole community to be part of it.”
Claude Bacon, President & CEO of GOEDC, said the event will help energize the local economy and celebrate entrepreneurship.
“Downtown is the heart of any great city, and events like this give our small businesses a chance to shine,” Bacon said. “The Small Biz Crawl not only boosts foot traffic, it strengthens the connections that make our community special.”
For more information or to register a business, visit edc.owensboro.com/crawl.
