TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WSAV) -Christmastime on Tybee Island means more lights, garland, and for business owners, more sales.
The storefront owner tellx News 3 that business has been booming, at least for the last few weeks, even though it's considered the off-season for the beach town.
"People like to come in the off-season," said Kelly Jones, co-owner of Sea Salt Ceramics, "It's easier to go out to eat. It's easier to get into the shops since the parking is free right now, so people can come out, shop, and hang out, and not really have to worry about crowds too much."
The free parking is offered through the holiday season through New Year's Day. It is something Tybee Island Communications and Outreach Director Cassidi Kendrick says is doing wonders for the economy.
"The businesses are very appreciative of the free parking during the holidays," said Kendrick, "They're all advertising that on their own websites and social media, just as the city is. I think that it's been a really big draw with helping people come out and maybe have a date night or do some Christmas shopping on Tybee when they won't have to pay for the parking."
The parking perks, in combination with the packed schedule of events on Tybee during this holiday season, including Tour De Art, Holiday Market, and the Christmas tree lighting are helping local stores thrive.
"They really help bring people to us this time of year," said Jones, whose store is located in the Tybee Oaks plaza, "because they don't just shop down there, LIKE they're here for the tree lighting, they come over here and they eat, and they get coffee and they do some of their Christmas shopping."
The next major happening on the island is the second Tour De Art event which is Saturday, Dec. 14, from noon to 5 p.m.