MONROE — Residents are encouraged to shop small this holiday season and Main Street Monroe is offering a chance to win up to $500 in prizes. 

Main Street Monroe’s Christmas Giveaway runs through Dec. 31 with weekly drawings and a grand prize drawing Dec. 31. 

“It’s a chance to win while you’re supporting our local businesses this holiday season,” said Main Street Executive Director Jordan Nordby. “We encourage people to visit downtown this Christmas. Not only to shop, but see the lights, dine and celebrate this festive season.”

Shoppers can pick up a punch card at any of the 20 participating businesses with a “Christmas Giveaway” sign. Six punches are needed to fill the card. Earn a punch by making a minimum $10 purchase or bring in a donation for the Green County Food Pantry. When the card is completed, drop it off at a business to be entered in the prize drawing. There is no card limit per person.

Main Street Monroe has a full holiday season planned. Don’t miss Shop Small Saturday, Nov. 30, sponsored by American Express. This 10th annual event happens nationwide to support small businesses during the busy holiday season.

In addition, more than a dozen downtown stores will be open until 7 p.m. for the First Thursday Shopping Night Dec. 5. 

Santa Claus is coming to town during the 18th Annual Lighted Christmas Parade, 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. Santa will host a meet-and-greet at Wisconsin Bank & Trust immediately following the parade. Crafts and refreshments sponsored by the Monroe Tuesday Noon Optimists.

More information about these events available at mainstreetmonroe.org or by calling 608-328-4023.