It?s not every day that Elvis, Santa Claus, a few World War II vehicles and wall-to-wall shoppers get together to stroll the streets of Ellicott City.
But tonight, those elements converge on the historic downtown row for Midnight Madness, the biggest shopping night of the year and launch of the holiday season.
“It has just gotten bigger, and more people want to be involved with it,” said Barry Gibson, chairman of the Midnight Madness committee for the Ellicott City Business Association.
Businesses have been preparing for weeks for the 30th anniversary Midnight Madness, during which they will stay open late tonight to accommodate crowds. The event continues Saturday and Sunday with Hospitality Weekend, when stores will lure in shoppers with treats and deals.
“Sometimes you can hardly get in the door,” said Enalee Bounds, owner of Ellicott?s Country Store, a four-floor emporium of antiques, gifts and furniture.
“It?s the busiest and best” night of the year,” Bounds added.
For Shoemaker Country, the event might not be the highest-earning night, but it creates a buzz, and many who wander through the furniture store return later, manager John Shoemaker said.
The lingering snow likely won?t dampen the evening, and businesses have been working with the county to make sure the streets are cleared, Gibson said.
This year?s event coincides with the Pearl Harbor anniversary and the 30th anniversary of Elvis? death, which explains the World War II vehicles and Elvis impersonator. Added to the mix are roaming magic groups, bagpipers, a walking Christmas tree and a parade with Santa as the headliner.
Traffic is sure to be heavy, and parking lots fill up fast, but it?s usually a safe event, Gibson said.
An additional 10 officers will patrol the area tonight, and nine will be added to the streets Saturday and Sunday, said Howard Police Department spokeswoman Cpl. Tonya Riffle.
The officers will mainly be on foot patrol and will handle traffic snags if it becomes a problem, she said.
IF YOU GO
What: Midnight Madness and Hospitality Weekend
Where: Main Street in Ellicott City
When: 5 p.m. to midnight today; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
