It’s hard to believe that the first quarter of 2023 is almost in the books already! It seems like just yesterday we were ringing in the new year with the apple drop and our Midnight Moment, and now less than three short months later everyone is already gearing up for spring.
The first quarter has certainly gotten off to a whirlwind start, with Chocolate Escape, Black History Month, and Celtic Fest happening in rapid succession (and a very rainy First Friday ringing in our outdoor event season with more of a splash than a bang)! We’ve seen the emergence of some fantastic new Old Town traditions and a fresh life breathed into returning favorites. Construction on Piccadilly Street has us excited to welcome some very cool new neighbors to town, and the promise of warmer weather has me thinking about parking space murals and parades.
As I’m reflecting on the first quarter of 2023, and the breath of fresh air that spring will inevitably bring, I find myself thinking about the sense of renewal and energy that seems to have taken hold in our Main Street program already. As you may already be aware, we’ve been having a lot of conversations lately with our incredible committee members and our various partners and advocates across the community–and the state of Virginia–about what the future of Old Town looks like. We are so fortunate to have all of the components of a really incredible neighborhood centered here in downtown Winchester. There’s gorgeous and distinctive historic architecture, a thriving small business community with a low vacancy rate, engaged and active nonprofit groups with powerful advocacy agendas, a wealth of artistic talent, and above all else, people who care tremendously about where they live and work.
So, while we take the rest of this year to revitalize our work, to refresh our vision and set bold new goals for what Old Town Winchester can be, I’d like to invite you to join us! Take an hour out of your month to attend one of our Community Input Sessions. Visit one of our Main Street Committee meetings. Volunteer for an event, or stop by the info table on a First Friday soon to introduce yourself. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram to learn more about everything that goes on in Old Town Winchester every day. Bring your voice to the conversation, and leave a handprint on the community. We can’t wait to have you!
Stay warm and dry, and we’ll see you all at Apple Blossom and KidzFest!
Alex Flanigan
Main Street Program Manager