I am no Mall-hater by any means. As a matter of fact I actually enjoy a good Mall, outlets are a bonus - just not in December! Shopping at the Mall between Thanksgiving and Christmas is like the Running of the Bulls in Spain! You better watch out, walk fast and get out of everybody's way ... or else!
Call me crazy but having to circle the parking lots for an hour until possibly lucking out and scoring a precious parking spot does not really help me get into the holiday spirit. Neither do those stalkers that follow you driving 5 mph when you are walking back to your car - on the other end of the lot of course since that was the only place you could score a spot! CREEPY! It does get interesting when those people being followed are just unloading their stuff and go back into the madhouse ... and just thinking about the 84 times of Jingle Bells one is subjected to during just one visit is giving me a headache.
In my humble opinion the best place for holiday shopping is still Main Street USA. Fortunately, I have quite a few of Main Streets to choose from in Central Maryland and shopping there is an entirely different experience. People are pleasant, you are greeted with a smile, Christmas music actually does just run in the background and hunting for those unique presents is actually fun!
One of my favorite Main Streets is in Ellicott City, Maryland (love Annapolis and Frederick, too). It's just a charming street with its historic buildings and great mix of antiques, collectibles, wine, home decor and toys. Being able to find lots of items Made in USA is also to its advantage.
The town of Ellicott City is again offering free parking this holiday season to encourage people to shop along historic Main Street. There's also the Annual Ellicott City Historic District Photo Contest going on:
check out the storefront windows while you are out and about Ellicott City's historic district and vote for the best holiday decoration. You can enter to win a $75 gift certificate to one of the shops or restaurants. Ballots are available at the Howard County Tourism Center which just recently relocated to 8267 Main Street!
While you visit you may also want to stop by the B&O Railroad Museum Ellicott City Station - it's very charming and practically on your way, you can't miss it!
Friendly people, decorated storefronts, charming historic buildings, free parking (at least in Ellicott City), unique gifts and support of local small businesses - all reasons why Main Street USA is still the best place for Holiday Shopping!
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