ATHENS, Ala. – Winter’s favorite drink will take center stage in downtown Athens, Ala. the second Saturday in December when Athens Main Street hosts the tenth annual Sippin’ Cider Festival.

The holiday affair, set for December 12, 2020, offers an evening of carolers, shopping among local merchants, visits from Santa Claus, and door prize giveaways as festival-goers sip on hot cider prepared by downtown merchants. From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., participating merchants will offer sample tastings of their favorite cider recipe. Guests will vote by a paperless ballot via a QR code from each merchant, for their favorite, and the cider receiving the most votes wins the coveted Cider Cup and bragging rights for the year. All COVID-19 local and state guidelines will be enforced including, but not limited to, physical distancing and the wearing of masks when six feet of separation cannot be maintained.

The following downtown businesses will have cider for their patrons: Terranova’s, Crawford’s Gifts, Frame Gallery Off the Square, Trinity’s, Hyatt & Sims, Square Clock Coffee, UG White, CEI Bookstore, High Cotton Arts, Hendricks Patton, Tammy’s Fine Jewelry, Pimentos, The Warten House B&B, Wildwood Deli, Snapdragon Kids, Belles & Beaus, Garnet’s, Tootlebugs, and The Broken Brush Art Studio.

QUOTES

Athens Main Street Executive Director Tere Richardson:

“This event is always a favorite for our community.  The cider is fantastic, and so is the shopping!  Plan to experience our beautiful, historic square all decked out for Christmas.  As a recent out of state visitor commented, “It’s like a Hallmark movie.”

Tracie Spain, owner of Frame Gallery Off the Square:

“We are excited to finally be able to participate in one of the great traditions on the square!”

Dawne Douthit, owner of Square Clock Coffee and Epiphany Boutique:

“Sippin’ Cider is one of our favorite nights of the year!  It feels magical with all the Christmas lights up and the yummy smell of warm cider in every store.  We love seeing everyone.  You’ve never been?  Come on out and enjoy a perfect Athens tradition!”