Festive Cheers and Cloudy Skies in Uptown Greenwood
In the charming streets of Uptown Greenwood, the spirit of the holidays is in full swing despite the cloudy skies predicted for today. A delightful blend of lingering warmth and festive anticipation fills the air, making it the perfect setting for the annual 2024 Grape Stomp celebration.
The weather may be overcast, with morning clouds giving way to partial clearing and a high of 68°F, but that hasn’t dampened the enthusiasm of the event’s attendees. A gentle ENE wind at 5 to 10 mph serves as a crisp reminder that, even though it feels like summer, Christmas is just around the corner. The evening promises to dip to a cooler 53°F, providing a cozy end to a bustling day.
A Stroll Through Greenwood’s Festive Wonderland
As we walked through the streets of Uptown, we were greeted by the bustling excitement of local shoppers and enthusiastic business owners. The energy was nothing short of contagious. Allison Erb and Lisa Curreri, regular faces at Grape Stomp, couldn’t help but show their joy. “It’s such a lovely way to discover all the little shops and tick off some Christmas shopping,” Erb shared brightly. “Bringing new clients to this event, it’s a pleasure to introduce them to Greenwood’s hidden gems.”
New Faces and Festive Places
This year, La Mesa Boutique was one of the fresh additions to the lineup. Katherine Lucas, co-owner of this cozy spot, beamed with pride. “We opened right after Hurricane Helene,” she recounted. “The holiday season’s joy is exactly what the community needs—to uplift spirits and gather amidst twinkling Christmas lights,” she added, gesturing to the beautifully decorated boutique.
This year’s event was a showcase of a vibrant community spirit, featuring 18 stops on the Wine Walk and offering a diverse range of wines, each a chance to taste something new and delightful. The President of the Chamber of Commerce, Trentsie Williams, explained the significance of Grape Stomp: “It’s more than just a wine walk. It’s an excellent opportunity to highlight Uptown retailers and introduce new customers to their offerings.”
Sips and Smiles Across Uptown
The event drew over 350 enthusiastic participants, all eager to explore the unique offerings in each shop. From the Pretty in Pink decorations at Sugar Boutique to the lively atmosphere at the Greenwood Gamer Arcade, there was something to please everyone.
As Beth Smith, Leigh Wolke, and their friend sipped wine at the Inn on Hampton, they reflected on the evening: “It’s magical seeing Uptown come alive like this. The whole community joins in to celebrate, which is lovely.”
The Grape Stomp isn’t just a local event; it’s a cherished tradition that brings the community together, encouraging residents to support local businesses while indulging in festive fun. As festive tunes played softly in the background, and glasses clinked with holiday cheer, Greenwood proved once again that its charm is unmatched, especially as the holiday season begins to take center stage.
