You know those old Christmas movies set in small towns where people walk around in the evening and the towns are lit beautifully as the snow magically swirls around. Wouldn't it be amazing if we could have that same sort of ambiance in downtown Binghamton? The Gorgeous Washington Street Association thinks so too, but they need your help making it happen.

Today marks five months until Christmas and the Gorgeous Washington Street Association is holding a special Christmas in July event where all proceeds will be used to help the City of Binghamton purchase, install and maintain new holiday lights and decorations for downtown Binghamton.

Stop by Atomic Tom’s at 196 State Street from 6-10pm tonight for Christmas in July, featuring gift basket raffle and door prizes, a fine art auction, paintings, craft beers and Finger Lake Wines. Tickets are $25 per person and includes event admission, appetizers, door prizes, musical entertainment and more.

A limited number of advance tickets are also available at Lost Dog Cafe, River Read Books and Orion Beauty and Balance. You can also purchase tickets here.

The Gorgeous Washington Street Association has partnered with the City of Binghamton and the Downtown Binghamton Business Association to bring a renewed holiday spirit to downtown Binghamton this year. The initial focus this year is to increase the overall lighting of: Court Street from the traffic circle over to and including the Court Street Bridge, Gorgeous Washington Street from Hawley Street to Court Street and the Artists Row section of State Street between Henry Street and Lewis Street. If there's sufficient funding, a 20-foot lighted tree will be placed in the Metro Center courtyard on Court Street.

The Gorgeous Washington Street Association is made up of more than 50 local businesses, organizations and individuals who are all committed to a vibrant arts community in downtown Binghamton. Through their efforts, we’re able to enjoy First Friday Art Walk as well as the ongoing beautification projects that have enhanced the community and its businesses.

If you’d like to learn more about Christmas in July, please reach out to Kim DeLisa at 607-724-0080.

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