Save your pennies, Ridiculous Day in downtown Newton is Saturday.
Back at the end of July, Ridiculous Day, sponsored by the Newton Chamber of Commerce, has new activities and entertainment for shoppers looking for a bargain.
“We are going to have Art Junkie do some face painting, an acoustic guitarist will be playing music for shoppers and the Fairy Godmothers will be selling lemonade as a fundraiser,” Newton Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Amanda Price said. “All of those people will be scattered around on the sidewalks as their own little sidewalk sale. They hopefully will also guide people all the way around the square and make it a fun shopping atmosphere.”
New this year, a “Ridiculous Race” will take place throughout local businesses. Based on the television show “The Amazing Race,” a team of four people will get clues that will lead them to local businesses and landmarks. Teams will participate in challenges at the businesses with prizes for those who place first, second and third.
“It will be really fun. Some of the businesses involved are getting some really cool and unique challenges for the teams to do. I’m really excited to see how it goes,” Price said.
Also for the first time, shoppers will have the opportunity to sign up for a special giveaway — a one-of-a-kind ring from the Jeweler’s Bench. Owner Jeff Roush designed a ring just for Ridiculous Day. It’s valued at $180, Price said.
Shoppers will be able to sign up at each chamber business around the square, giving them more than one shot at the ring, depending on how many times they enter.
Ridiculous Day is moving back to its regular end of July time slot after moving to be a part of the inaugural Newton Fest in 2015.
“The business owners asked to back to the end of July date because it can be a slower time of year. They like to have the sidewalk sales to get some more profit,” Price said.
Price has also encouraged all chamber members throughout the community to have their own Ridiculous Day sale or specials for their customers, even if they are not located in downtown.
For more information about the Ridiculous Race visit the chamber's website at www.experiencenewton.com or stop by the office at 113 First Ave. W.
Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com