This Saturday, downtown Sturgeon Bay came alive with holiday cheer as locals and visitors gathered for the much anticipated Shop Small, Sip Local celebration. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Third Avenue and surrounding streets buzzed with festive energy, combining the joy of shopping with the warmth of seasonal sips and free trolley rides to soak it all in.

Boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops opened their doors wide, offering carefully curated gifts, artisan goods, and local holiday treasures. Bay Shore Outfitter’s Hot Cocoa stand was a huge hit as the crisp November air chilled sippers and shoppers alike.

Each storefront invited guests in with a cheerful spirit, sip stations outside allowed shoppers to sample seasonal beverages while they browsed.  While shoppers meandered, Santa made a special appearance at the Door County Historical Museum, delighting children and families. Door County trolley looped through key stops, making it easy to hop between shops without missing a thing.

The event marked the kickoff of the second weekend of Christmas By the Bay, a festive celebration orchestrated by Destination Sturgeon Bay to usher in the holiday season.