Ice Lounge on Main sees extraordinary success during inaugural event
In a first-of-its-kind event for the Town of Newmarket, Ice Lounge on Main brought thousands of visitors to the downtown area to help support local businesses during the 4-day event held in February, a typically slower time for the business community.
During a presentation from Town staff, Council heard feedback from the businesses and discussed the success of this inaugural event.
Through a survey from 36 local Main Street businesses, which included a mix of establishments (restaurants, retail and services), more than 66% reported that they experienced higher or significantly higher than average sales compared to an average weekend in February. Moreover, more than 69% of the businesses reported that their sales were on par or higher than average when compared to a busy weekend any time of the year. When asked if they would support multi-day Main Street events in the future, an overwhelming majority of 78% said they would support this type of event both in February and in the summer.
To promote shopping during the weekend-long event, the Town's Choose Local program encouraged spending through gift card and grand prize giveaways. With a minimum spend of $50 (excluding restaurants) for participants to receive a ballot, 462 ballots were received during the event. This means that a minimum of $23,100 was spent at retail shops.
The Town will continue to work with local businesses and collect feedback about Ice Lounge on Main as they plan for future events.
Watch the presentation to learn more about the event and what businesses had to say.
Newmarket Library continues to be a beacon of discovery in community
In 2023, the Newmarket Library lent out more than 460,000 items for the community to enjoy and discover. At Committee of the Whole earlier this month, Council received a presentation from the Newmarket Library highlighting the 2023 successes outlined in their Annual Report to the Community [PDF/7.1MB].
With a foundation rooted in books, the Library has evolved into something greater – a multifaceted destination offering a host of programs and services, along with their robust book collection.
As a champion of inclusivity, the Library made some big changes in 2023, including going fine-free in an effort to provide equitable access to resources. They also expanded their operating hours to open at 9 a.m.
Aiming to get outside the four walls of the Library, community outreach played an important role in fostering curiosity and discovery throughout 2023 and will continue to do so as they keep building on their momentum. From pop-up programs in the parks to programs at the Newmarket Seniors' Meeting Place, the Library created connections throughout Town. Looking forward, the Library aims to increase the number of diverse programs, continue community outreach and keep building relationships in 2024.
Watch the presentation to hear more about the Library's successes in 2023 and what's in in store for this year.
Visit newmarketpl.ca to find Library programs, learn more about the Library, or sign up for a membership!
Newmarket Council shows support for local fundraising initiative, NWMRKT Proud
Newmarket Council showed their support for NWMRKT Proud, a grassroots campaign created by local Newmarket residents which is designed to foster community spirit by raising money to support the Newmarket Food Pantry.
The campaign, which also highlights Newmarket's appeal as a great place to live and work, raised more than $27,000 in 2023 through t-shirt and toque sales. This year, the campaign's goal is to surpass last year's total in the month of June, culminating with the York Pride Festival.
At a time where food banks are experiencing increased demand from communities, this year's campaign is particularly important to support those most vulnerable in our community and help combat food insecurity.
You can support the NWMRKT Proud campaign by purchasing a t-shirt with a $20 donation. NWMRKT Proud t-shirts will be available at the Newmarket Farmers' Market (200 Doug Duncan Drive) for several weekends leading up to the York Region Pride Parade on Saturday, June 15.
To hear more, watch the presentation.