Shoppers in Sumner will have a little extra opportunity this year to pick up gifts as many of the stores downtown have announced plans to stay open late on Thursdays through the holiday and potentially beyond.

According to Sumner Downtown Association President Arla Holzschuh, the merchants chose to stay open until 8 p.m. on Thursday evenings at least through Christmas.

The businesses may also consider extending evening hours next year.

Holzschuh said the lights on the old buildings on Main Street give the area a special feel to do holiday shopping and keeping the shops open a little later than their usual closing time of 5 p.m. will give more shoppers more opportunities to discover downtown Sumner.

For more information on the Sumner Downtown Association visit www.sumnerdowntown.com.