Photo: Courtesy of Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce & Industry
NEWBURYPORT, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — It was a spellbinding evening in Newburyport on Friday as the city held its annual Witches Night Out celebration.
Nate Allard, chief of the Greater Newburyport Chamber of Commerce, told WBZ NewsRadio the event would attract a “jam-packed” crowd dressed in bewitching costumes.
“It’s a way for adults to kick off the fall season," Newburyport Chamber of Commerce President Nate Allard said.
Shops were encouraged to stay open late.
“Some of the shops are usually closing around 5 or 6," Allard said. "They’re staying open [until] 9, so you’re seeing a later night crowd [and] more exciting deals.”
Allard said participating retailers often provide spooky-themed adult beverages and small bites.
The Partridge in a Bear Tree shop has been partaking in Witches Night Out for years, but this year was a little different for them. The shop's owner, Kevin Riley, passed away in August. Allard told the Newburyport News Riley was known to be an active participant in chamber events and "a well-known character loved by all."
The shop kept up the tradition, conjuring up its signature drink with a kick for their customers. “We serve our famous champagne punch,” one of the store clerks told WBZ NewsRadio. “We call it ‘witches brew.’ Everybody will be dressed up ready for a fun night.”
A local resident said the night was all about the fun vibes and, obviously, about the witches hats too. “Have a taste of the drinks, talking and hanging out, I think it’ll be more of a fun, chill, shopping vibe than a day time thing.”
Witches Night Out was a one-night-only event at downtown Newburyport and The Tannery Marketplace.
WBZ NewsRadio's Kendall Buhl (@WBZKendall) reports.
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