Historic Downtown Sikeston is trying something different this year for Valentine’s Day.

After years of holding the Chocolate Walk on Valentine’s Day weekend, Historic Downtown Sikeston is changing things up and holding Love Local Extravaganza.

“We wanted to try something different,” said Jason Davis, director of Historic Downtown Sikeston. “The Chocolate Walk seemed to have run its course and we always want to be improving events. Many of the merchants thought this would be a great change and so we went with it.”

The event will take the form of a holiday open house from 5-8 p.m. Saturday. There will be carriage rides, roses for sale by the Historic Downtown Sikeston Garden Club, and in-store specials.

“I know some stores will also have treats to offer shoppers as well,” Davis said.

They chose the name, Love Local Extravaganza for two reasons.

“First, we want to encourage people to come out and celebrate Valentine’s season, the season of love, with their significant other and friends,” Davis said. “Second, this is another chance to shop local and show our local small businesses some love.”

The event is an ideal time for residents to visit Downtown Sikeston and see some of the new businesses that have opened as well as some of the work that has been done to Downtown buildings.

“I am very excited for the entire event,” Davis said. “With everything going on Downtown, we have new businesses like Stage and Play and Carson’s opening, as well as our long-time staple stores. It’s sure to be a great night of food, laughs, love, and fun.” (Feb. 8, 2023)