City leaders approve $45,000 investment aimed at creating a festive downtown experience for residents and visitors alike.
LORIS, SC — The City of Loris is looking to transform its downtown into a holiday destination after city leaders approved $45,000 for new Christmas attractions designed to encourage visitors to stop, explore and make memories in the community.
During its November 2 meeting, Loris City Council unanimously approved the funding request presented by Angel Neighbours, who described the city’s vision for the holiday season as “more, larger, and a better aesthetic.”
The plan goes beyond traditional holiday decorations. Among the proposed additions is a 22-foot-tall candy cane chair capable of seating up to five people for holiday photos, along with a 15-foot reindeer display and decorative carolers that will be placed at entrances to the city, including locations along Highway 701.
City officials also plan to decorate large trees at downtown intersections with hanging white Christmas ornaments, creating what Neighbours described as a “walkable experience.” Visitors will be encouraged to stroll from display to display, stopping for photos along the way, including opportunities with Santa Claus.
The effort reflects a broader goal of giving people a reason to spend time in downtown Loris rather than simply passing through. Neighbours said she hopes the city can continue adding new holiday attractions each year and eventually create an experience that draws visitors from outside the community.
“It would be great” to create something for both “outsiders and insiders,” Neighbours said, according to meeting reports. She indicated future additions could include a lighted train display designed as another family-friendly photo attraction.
The decorations will be funded through Hospitality Tax revenues. During council discussions, Mayor Michael Suggs said the expenditure qualifies as an allowable use of those funds because the project is intended to attract tourists and visitors.
Neighbours initially estimated the decorations would cost about $42,000, but Mayor Pro-Tem Carroll Padgett recommended increasing the authorization to $45,000 to cover any unexpected expenses. Council approved the higher amount unanimously.
If successful, the project could mark the beginning of a multi-year effort to establish Loris as a seasonal destination, creating a holiday experience city leaders hope will attract visitors while giving residents new traditions to enjoy close to home.
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