The Downtown Lincoln Association would like to thank all of the businesses, restaurants, and shoppers who participated in Shop the Blocks Holiday Celebration on Thursday, November 15th. The event brought over 800 shoppers, volunteers and staff downtown between 5:00-9:00 p.m. In just four short hours, shoppers spent more than $50,000 at participating boutiques to show their support for local businesses.
The event kicked off at Single Barrel on 10th & P Street, and shoppers had several hours to walk, or ride in style with Leisure Limousine, to the 20 participating retail stores that stayed open late and offered discounts just for them. Appetizers, desserts and beverages were served inside the stores by local restaurants and caterers.
At the after party, 375 shoppers attended for the chance to be rewarded for spending their money locally by being entered to win shopping prizes. Over $1,000 in gift cards and merchandise were given away, including a $250 Downtown Lincoln Gift Card. On Friday, seven lucky shoppers were chosen to win an additional $1,000 in prizes that were announced online.
Thank you to everyone who helped make the event a huge success in supporting Lincoln’s small-business owners. Be on the lookout for another Shop the Blocks this coming spring!
Downtown Business News
Q&A: Welcoming Raising Cane’s Downtown
One Love. No, we’re not talking about Bob Marley but the newest eatery to occupy the streets of downtown Lincoln. That is Raising Cane’s philosophy; they only have one love—chicken fingers. Raising Cane’s is no stranger to the Lincoln community. Their location on 48th Street has become one of the most popular spots in town. We spoke with Jennifer Jones, Raising Cane’s owner, about their move downtown.
Tell me a little bit about Raising Cane’s history.
Jennifer: Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers was founded by Todd Graves and first opened for business in -Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The Lincoln Raising Cane’s Franchise was opened in 2006 by [my husband, Justin, and I], who moved from Baton Rouge to bring this chicken finger concept to Nebraska.
What makes Raising Cane’s unique compared to the many other restaurants occupying the downtown area, especially with all the new restaurants?
Jennifer: For most other restaurants, chicken fingers are just one more thing on the menu, but at Raising Cane’s, it’s the ONLY THING so they are able to concentrate on that and doing it better than anyone else. In addition to their fresh, NEVER FROZEN chicken fingers, Justin & I have set out to be active in the community since opening their first location at 48th & R Street and they will continue this at 14th & P. This Raising Cane’s Franchise has started many annual programs in Lincoln (Cell Phones for Soldiers, Raising Coats with Raising Cane’s, Stuff the Bus) and is continuously supporting many other organizations and individuals throughout the year.
Can you describe the atmosphere of your restaurant for someone who’s never been there?
Jennifer: Raising Cane’s has a great crew that loves what they do and this is shown by their service. You can always expect a cool, upbeat and fun atmosphere.
Read the rest of the Q&A at downtownlincoln.org. Raising Cane’s is located on the corner of 14th and P Street.
Downtown Gift Cards Make the Perfect Holiday Gift!
Downtown Gift Cards are available online at downtowngift.org. Recipients of the gift card will have the luxury of spending their funds at more than 200 restaurants, boutiques, movie theatres, parking garages, bars, hair salons and other establishments downtown!
For questions about the Downtown Lincoln Gift Card program call 402-434-6900.
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Founded in 1967, the Downtown Lincoln Association provides services and champions initiatives for maintaining and enhancing our vibrant downtown. Our vision is to create an energetic downtown environment where we live, learn, work, invest and play. DLA has evolved into a multi-faceted organization supporting a wide range of programs and activities including maintenance, economic development and advocacy.
For a complete listing of downtown businesses, events and residences visit: downtownlincoln.org. ‘Like’ us on Facebook at facebook.com/downtownlincoln.