With the familiar Chocolate Stroll taking a break this year, Mount Vernon and Lisbon small businesses are stepping into summer with a fresh and festive alternative.
The Mount Vernon-Lisbon Community Development Group (CDG) is introducing the “Hello Summer Shopping Kickoff” on Saturday, June 21, as the first of two new events designed to support local retailers during the slower summer months. The second, a community-wide Sidewalk Sale, will follow on August 9.
“In past years, the Chocolate Stroll brought great foot traffic and helped businesses connect with new customers,” said CDG director Jessie Thurn. “We didn’t want the summer to feel empty without it. So, we asked, what can we do to keep the energy alive and encourage people to continue shopping locally?”
The result is a summer-long shopping incentive featuring a punch card system that rewards shoppers for spending locally. Participating businesses will provide a punch for every $10 spent.
Once shoppers hit 10 punches — a $100 total — they can turn in their card to the CDG or a sponsor participating business for a chance to win over $500 worth of prizes, including gift cards and “CDG Community Cash” usable at local shops.
While June 21st and August 9th are the anchor dates, the promotion runs all summer giving shoppers nearly seven weeks to browse, support businesses, and complete their punch cards.
More than 20 Mount Vernon and Lisbon businesses are taking part in the initiative. Each will offer special deals, discounts, or giveaways during the kickoff weekend. For full event details, participating businesses, and prize information, visit the CDG’s website visitMountVernonLisbon.com or check out the event page on Facebook at @HelloSummerShoppingKickoff.
Local favorites like Iron Leaf Press, Scarlett Boutique, Little Scratch Coffee Roasters, and The Local will be among those participating. From home décor and clothing to coffee, self-care, and even records at Hilltop Plants and Records, shoppers will find something for everyone.
“This is a great opportunity for people to come in, see what’s new, and participate in their community,” said business owner Danielle Chargo. “Summers can be a little slower for us, so an event like this helps keep energy in town and it’s a lot of fun for customers too.”
The CDG, a volunteer-led nonprofit, sees this new event as part of a broader effort to stay responsive and innovative amid changes in the community. The group’s leadership emphasized that even without longtime traditions like the Chocolate Stroll, the goal remains the same: create opportunities for connection, commerce, and community pride.
“This summer is all about reminding people how much Mount Vernon and Lisbon have to offer,” Thurn said.