The “Ugly Holiday Sweater Stroll” took place Thursday night in downtown Columbus.

The event was put on by the Columbus Downtown Merchants Association and The Commons. Residents, visitors and business owners were encouraged to do their loudest Christmas sweaters, the walk through downtown and visit area businesses. Many businesses who took part stayed open for extended hours, as the event ran from 5 to 8 p.m.

Participation appeared light, on both the business and consumer side, but those who took part said they were pleased. Mike Dell, with Dell Bros., said that business was steady. Dell, who was sporting his own holiday sweater, noted that this was the first year for the Stroll and that overall, it was a “good start” to what he hopes will be an annual event.

Dell said that events like these are always welcome as a way to to get more people to visit downtown businesses like his, which is about to enter its 100th year in Columbus. He went on to say that even if new potential customers only take part in window-shopping, events like these make these people think of his business, and a potential return with an intent to buy.

Terry Whitaker, who was manning the register at Viewpointe Books, seemed to agree. He said that he saw several people out and about during this event. While his sales weren’t exceptional, Whitaker said that every extra sale is appreciated.