The City of Perry received the Award of Excellence in the Promotion category for the premier event, Downtown Perry Wine Tasting, at the Georgia Downtown Conference awards ceremony.

Hosted by the Perry Main Street Advisory Board in collaboration with the Promotions Committee, this annual event aims to fundraise for the Main Street Advisory Board and promote Downtown Perry, drawing new visitors. The event's proceeds support beautification, placemaking, and promotions, including transformative projects like the ADA-accessible alleyway renovated with $20,000 from the 2022 event. Other funded activities encompass downtown decoration, the annual Sweets & Treats event, Small Business Saturday, and December's small business support activities.

In 2023, the April event raised $21,000, beginning the search for a significant project to fund. Meanwhile, the funds aided in a smaller summer project, "Drink and Dine Downtown," which targets retail growth during a slower season.

Beyond fundraising, the board and Promotions Committee aspire to attract first-time visitors to Downtown Perry. Ticket holders from various states attended in 2021 and 2022, expanding the event's reach. Open to all, the event offers live music, food and beverage options, and extended shopping hours, introducing many to Downtown Perry for the first time.

Given its popularity, the premier event will now occur twice a year. This expanded schedule heightens Downtown Perry's visibility and amplifies funds for Main Street projects, fulfilling workplan objectives. The community's participation in activities like girls' nights, date nights, and birthday celebrations contributes to the event's allure.

Don't miss the upcoming Downtown Perry Wine Tasting on October 20 for an elevated local downtown experience. Tickets may be purchased at perry-ga.gov/downtown.

Pictured are (from left): Perry Economic Development Director Holly Wharton, Perry Downtown Manager Alicia Hartley, Perry Main Street Chairman Trish Cossart, and Georgia Downtown Association Vice President Emily Hopkins.

For more information, contact Alicia Hartley at (478) 988-2730 or Alicia.Hartley@perry-ga.gov.