Chocolate Walk returns to Uptown Marion on Friday

Shoppers are invited to an evening strolling in Uptown Marion to sample chocolate treats at the Chocolate Walk on Friday from 8 to 10:30 p.m. Grab a friend and enjoy fall at your favorite spot and discover new stores.

Attendees can also grab an event map with participating stores listed and to help navigate construction in the area. Acoustic artist Billy Heller will perform on the Uptown Artway stage beginning at 8 p.m.

Enter for a chance to win $100 gift certificates to participating Uptown Marion businesses by presenting a receipt at the welcome booth located in the Uptown Artway, located in the alley of the 1000 block between Seventh and Eighth Avenues.

“It’s more important than ever keep local retailers and restaurants top of mind,” said Brooke Prouty, Uptown Marion Main Street director. “This night is the perfect opportunity to explore some of the shops in Uptown.”

Participating business will offer a complimentary chocolate treat while supplies last. For a complete list of Chocolate Walk participating merchants, visit facebook.com/MarionIAChamber

Making a debut on Friday, the Marion Welcome Center retail space will be open for attendees to shop fun, Marion branded items and apparel. The Welcome Center is housed in the front of the Marion Chamber of Commerce an Uptown Marion Main Street office at 1070 Seventh Ave. As Marion’s tourism grows with the addition of amenities like Prospect Meadows, the space will serve as a welcome mat to visitors and residents alike.