Downtown PG hosts ‘virtual Summerfest’
Downtown Prince George has been working to support businesses in the city’s core during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Certainly COVID-19 has thrown a wrench into our plans this year, as it has for everybody,” Downtown PG president Eoin Foley said.
Foley, who is the co-founder of Nancy O’s and Betulla Burning, said many of the downtown’s businesses – especially those that rely on customers coming through the door – are struggling.
“At this time we’re just making sure we are keeping the doors open and surviving,” he said.
“Without some of the government assistance, a lot of those businesses wouldn’t be open, because they depend on being at 100 per cent (capacity) to stay open.”
Executive director Colleen Van Mook said the organization has shifted gears this year, putting less emphasis on events to supporting businesses adapt to the changing requirements and promoting cleaner streets.
“It’s not forever, it’s for now,” she said. “We have a lot of fighters in our downtown businesses. Everyone has had to think differently and we wanted to help our businesses... I guess the word is pivot.”
Downtown PG created grant programs to help businesses buy supplies or install barriers in order to meet their safety plans to reopen.
In addition, they created a second program to help businesses increase their online presence and engage in e-commerce.
Downtown PG is also offering gift card
Previously postponed due to the COVID19 pandemic the Saints And Sinners tour will perform in Prince George on Jan. 18.
The tour features Big Wreck, Headstones, Moist and The Tea Party. sales for downtown businesses through its website, downtownpg.com, Van Mook said.
One of Downtown PG’s signature events, Summerfest, will still be happening – in an at-home, virtual form.
On July 12, starting at 11 a.m., the downtownpg.com website will feature a “virtual Summerfest” – local music, entertainment, crafts, cooking classes and more, Van Mook said.
The virtual event will be available to stream for at least a week after July 12, so residents who miss it on the Sunday can still enjoy it, she added.
Tickers start at $49 and can be purchased through TicketsNorth.
Those who have previously purchased tickets and cannot attend on the new date can also get a refund through TicketsNorth until Fri., July 24 by calling 236-423-1157.