56 attendees with the Destination Downtown Conference arrived at Denham Springs Old City Hall today at 2:30 PM to partake in local shopping at several stores along the Antique District as well as enjoy the quaint scenic sights and local entertainment.
As described on the event's website and their social media posts, the annual Destination Downtown Conference is a dynamic regional gathering that brings together community leaders, preservationists, and economic development professionals. Hosted in partnership by Louisiana Main Street, Main Street Arkansas, Mississippi Main Street Association, and Main Street Alabama, the conference celebrates the power of historic downtowns and neighborhood commercial districts as drivers of local vitality and identity. Attendees engage in inspiring sessions focused on revitalization strategies, placemaking, small business support, and sustainable growth.
This year, three locations were chosen for historic shopping and downtown walking: Downtown St. Francisville, Downtown Baton Rouge, and our very own Denham Springs Antique District.
The attendees who chose the Denham Springs tour were driven to Old City Hall by charter bus, and during their trip Denham Springs Mayor Gerard Landry gave a bit of background on how the Antique Village got its name.
In the late 1980s and 1990s, antique dealers began restoring businesses in the nearly deserted center of the city of Denham Springs. Thanks to those antique dealers' vision and commitment, they transformed the area into a thriving shopping destination that continues to bring visitors from all over the country.
After stepping off from the bus, attendees were welcomed into Old City Hall where cookies and cake pops, courtesy of Denham Springs City Councilmember Lori Lamm-Williams, and cold refreshments awaited them.
Once everyone was settled and had something to eat or drink, tote bags filled with goodies, including a $20 gift card to several stores along the antique district and gift vouchers, were given to each attendee and they were offered the choice of a personalized walking tour or a solo shopping experience.
Along the sidewalks and in participating stores, refreshment stands were also set up to help attendees beat the afternoon heat as they enjoyed the shopping and sights before the event’s tour portion concluded.
