There's always something special about shopping downtown during the holiday season.  There, you find tradition, unique stores, a festive atmosphere, and a vast variety of cozy restaurants and coffee shops when you need to supplement your shopping strength.  It's also a great place to catch up with friends during a holiday brunch, lunch or dinner.

And while metered parking is always free on Sundays, you can also park in the metered spaces at no cost on the first three Saturdays in December - the 6th, 13th, and 20th. 

If you're attending the Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 6th, it's best to be downtown early, so it's the perfect time to work some shopping in and grab a bite to eat before the parade starts. 

For a list of downtown services, shopping and dining, and to call for holiday hours, visit the Downtown Guide.

If fine jewelry is on your Christmas List, be sure to visit D. Bierfeldt Master Jeweler at 107 E. Pikes Peak Avenue (227-1361).  You can choose something gorgeous from the showcase, or for that spectacular gift, have an heirloom custom made.  Dale Bierfeldt has an eye for the exquisite, and will help you design a true treasure.

Our assistant's pick for her favorite downtown restaurant:  The award-winning Mediterranean Cafe at 118 E. Kiowa (633-0115).  She tells us even though she seeks out Mediterranean restaurants wherever she goes, this gem remains her favorite, for the superb tasting dishes at a very reasonable price.  Try the spanakopita!

Ken and Sandy Wickham are long-time realtors in beautiful Colorado Springs, CO.  To contact them, call 719-534-7919 or 800-599-8500 ext. 1120. 

www.wickhome.com