PITTSFIELD LAUNCHES 'PASSPORTS TO DOWNTOWN' SHOPPING PROGRAM

PITTSFIELD, Ill. | A new initiative designed to encourage residents and visitors to explore downtown Pittsfield businesses officially begins Thursday, October 1. The city's Passports to Downtown program invites participants to shop, dine, and visit participating businesses around the historic downtown Square while collecting stamps for chances to win prizes.

The program will continue through the end of December, giving shoppers three months to discover local businesses and participate in monthly prize drawings. Visitors can collect stamps in their passports as they patronize participating establishments. At the end of each month, winners will be drawn to receive gift certificates redeemable at participating businesses on the Square.

Passports are available at 213 North Monroe Street, the former S&S Dance Studio next door to Pittsfield City Hall. Pickup hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Signs outside the building will direct visitors to the entrance. If the building is locked, participants can pick up passports next door at City Hall, 215 North Monroe Street.

City officials are encouraging area residents to take advantage of the program throughout the fall and holiday shopping season. The initiative combines an opportunity to explore Pittsfield's downtown shopping and dining destinations with an incentive to support locally owned businesses. Additional details and updates are available through the City of Pittsfield's official Facebook page.