Eloise Ogden/MDN Minot Park District personnel moved and then placed, as shown here, the Christmas tree for downtown Minot at the north end of Main Street earlier this month. The tree will be lit throughout the holiday season beginning on Friday. There will be no tree lighting ceremony this year.

Downtown Minot is home to over 50 unique local businesses where people can shop, eat, drink, celebrate and have fun. The community is invited to shop and celebrate throughout the small business season, beginning Thanksgiving weekend, by coming downtown for Plaid Friday and Small Business Saturday.

While the annual tree lighting ceremony, which attracts thousands of spectators, will not take place this year, the tree will be lit throughout the holiday season beginning on Friday. A pre-recorded message welcoming the community downtown will be shared via social media. The donated tree was cut and placed by Minot Park District personnel on the north end of Main Street and is being decorated by a small group of volunteers.

“For such a popular tradition, we do not believe it is possible to host an event within public gathering requirements and in keeping with Covid-19 safety recommendations,” said Chad Thompson, president of the Minot Downtown Business and Professional Association.

While the COVID-19 pandemic has required adjustments to the traditional holiday schedule downtown, there are a number of activities planned this season with additional safety precautions in place. In addition, many neighborhood businesses are expanding online ordering and delivery options to help the community stay safe and stay local this holiday season.

“Downtown Minot’s small businesses, entrepreneurs, and restaurants are an economic engine for our community, and while the pandemic has created unique challenges, we are resilient and will build back stronger. We encourage folks to shop local this holiday season so we can support our small businesses that create local jobs, strengthen our communities, and fuel our economic momentum,” Thompson said.

Follow @downtownminot on Facebook for business-specific deals, specials, and hours. Additional holiday season activities include a Downtown Holiday Selfie Scavenger Hunt and both evening and daytime Holiday Window Walks where People’s Choice and Judge’s Choice awards will be handed out. Also visit www.downtownminot.com for more information.