Forty-six years ago, the merchants of Beach Drive launched the very first Sunrise Sale in hopes that offering great deals would entice shoppers to brave the July heat. They were not disappointed. Great bargains beat back the summer doldrums, and both merchants and customers emerged as winners. So whether you’re a 46-year alum or a first-timer, don’t forget to set your alarm for the Downtown Business Association’s (DBA) annual event. The fun begins at 6:43 a.m. on Thursday, July 18, and lasts all day.
Get There Early!
The deals may last all day, but early birds get the best deals, a chance to win prizes, and maybe even some cake!
Deals, Deals, and More Deals!
You’ll want to get to your favorite shops early for the best deals and selection, so before you go check out the participating-merchant map online at www.facebook.com/DBAStPete/ and at the Sunrise Sale Hospitality Tent on the lawn at the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg. It will come in handy as you plot the best way to navigate your shopping route because the Sunrise Sale is no longer confined to Beach Drive. More than 40 businesses throughout downtown, the Edge District, and north on Fourth Street have joined the fun. Look for the yellow and orange balloons, and you’ll find a Sunrise Sale participant. And remember, the earlier you arrive, the better the deals. It’s a fantastic opportunity to spend and save!
Let Them Eat Cake … in Their Pajamas
Great deals aren’t the only reason to set your alarm. If you think your pajama game is on point, then be sure to stop by the hospitality tent before 9 a.m., and register for the Pajama Party contest. This year, the DBA Annual Sunrise Sale will award a prize for the “most local” pajama ensemble and a prize for the “most unique.” Each of the two triumphant contestants will score a basket overflowing with gifts from participating merchants. Plus, at 6:43 a.m., the tent will be the site of the ceremonial “cutting of the cake.” This free treat, courtesy of Sweet Divas, has become a favorite addition to the Sunrise Sale tradition, but it won’t last all day!
Giving Back
Great deals aren’t the only reason the Sunrise Sale is special. Every year, it spotlights a deserving charity. This year’s beneficiary is the St. Petersburg Free Clinic. Since 1970, the Free Clinic has been “Changing Lives With Help and Hope” by providing food, shelter, and health care to those in need. Among other worthy efforts, it offers programs that help the homeless get off the street and the uninsured obtain access to primary health care. It also provides the most basic of needs: food. As the No. 1 emergencyfood distributor in Pinellas County, the clinic feeds more than 50,000 people every month, including the one child out of every four going hungry in Pinellas County. If you can, please help by sharing a bit of your Sunrise Sale savings dollars. Clearly marked bags will be available at each participating store for cash donations. Non-perishable food donations will be accepted at the Hospitality Tent until noon.
Cake, prizes, deals, and donations!
It’s a date. We’ll see you at 6:43 a.m. on July 18.
Want to Know More?
Visit the DBA at www.facebook.com/DBAStPete/ for up-to-date Sunrise Sale information and find out more about the St. Petersburg Free Clinic at www.stpetersburgfreeclinic.org.
