Chickfest: A first timer’s experience
By Amie Johansen
amie@charlescitypress.com
I have never been one for shopping. My idea of shopping is going in, getting what I need and getting out. I do not browse.
Chickfest is designed for the shoppers, perusers and browsers. When a friend asked if I wanted to go I said to myself, “Amie, at least it’ll be a nice day out with someone you enjoy. You don’t have to shop, just go out and enjoy the company.” So I said “sure,” and we made a plan to meet at the Chamber by quarter to 8 a.m.
I drove into town on a tailwind causing me to arrive a little early. I expected to see a long line ladies curling around the block. Nope. I was going to be the second lady in line. The woman beating all others arrived to get in line at about 7:30 a.m. She has tried for years to be number one, and 2016 Chickfest was her year.
The wind hollowed and she invited me into her corner of warmth where the wind couldn’t quite whip our faces. We stood chatting and she shared tips as to which stores to hit up first. As we sat nestled in the corner, my friend arrived — also a Chickfest newbie. She was number three. We were feeling fairly proud of ourselves having arrived early enough to ensure we’d get a bag, we even beat some veterans!
At last the doors opened, we were given our tickets holding our spots in line. We could officially go grab a cup of coffee and relax for a bit before hurrying back to begin the festivities.
As we walked from store to store, I soon realized the day wasn’t about shopping, it was about seeing who you’d run into at the next shop. It looked as though half the town was out to enjoy a ladies-only party.
At the end of the day, I saw a lot of friendly faces and even made a few purchases. All in all, my first ever Chickfest was a success!
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