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Downtown Marion Inc. (DMI) exists to make downtown Marion a true destination for shopping, dining, entertainment, and community gatherings. For years, many in our community haven’t fully understood what DMI does or the impact it has on our area. At its core, DMI is a nonprofit organization focused on revitalizing downtown Marion and creating an environment where both residents and visitors can experience everything our downtown has to offer.
Through supporting local businesses, enhancing downtown’s appeal, and hosting engaging events, we work to bring people together and make downtown Marion a lively, inviting space. In this article, we’ll outline DMI’s mission, key initiatives, and the steps we’re taking to turn downtown into a thriving center for the community.
Our Mission: Supporting a Thriving Downtown
Downtown Marion Inc. is committed to making downtown Marion a vibrant, engaging area where businesses, entertainment, and community life can flourish. Our mission is to foster economic growth, support local businesses, and provide experiences that bring the community together. We believe that a strong downtown strengthens the entire Marion area, making it a place where people want to live, work, and visit.
Our Vision: A Welcoming, Connected Downtown
Our vision is to make downtown Marion the go-to destination for shopping, dining, entertainment, and community events in the region. We see a future where Marion’s downtown is known for its unique mix of local businesses, cultural experiences, and welcoming environment. By working to build connections between Marion’s past, present, and future, we aim to create a downtown that reflects the community’s identity and pride.
Why This Matters
A vibrant downtown brings several benefits to the community. It helps local businesses attract more customers, creates jobs, and enhances Marion’s appeal to potential residents and visitors. A strong downtown also fosters a sense of pride and belonging among residents, offering a place where the community can gather, celebrate, and enjoy entertainment together. This is the foundation of DMI’s work—ensuring that downtown Marion continues to grow and support the people and businesses that call it home.
DMI’s Key Programs and Initiatives
DMI has developed several key programs to strengthen downtown Marion’s appeal and support local businesses. These initiatives are designed to bring the community together, enhance Marion’s economic vitality, and improve the overall downtown experience.
Downtown Marion Dollars
This community gift card program encourages residents and visitors to shop and dine locally. Available as a digital card, Downtown Marion Dollars can be used at participating businesses throughout the downtown area, making it an easy way for people to support local businesses while exploring what Marion has to offer.
The Cardinal Project
As part of DMI’s commitment to cultural and artistic enhancement, The Cardinal Project features 17 five-foot-tall statues of Ohio’s state bird, the cardinal, each uniquely designed by local artists. These statues are placed throughout downtown Marion, adding an artistic and visual element that celebrates local creativity and gives residents and visitors something memorable to discover as they explore the area.
Adopt-a-Flower Bed Program
In partnership with the City of Marion, DMI’s Adopt-a-Flower Bed Program invites local businesses and residents to beautify downtown by adopting and maintaining flower beds. This program not only enhances downtown Marion’s visual appeal but also fosters community pride, encouraging residents to take an active role in creating a welcoming environment for all.
Window Decorating Contest
The annual Window Decorating Contest is a collaborative effort between DMI and downtown business owners. Local businesses are encouraged to decorate their windows, especially during the holiday season, to add charm and visual interest to the area. This contest attracts foot traffic and engages the community in creating a festive atmosphere in downtown Marion.
Downtown Street Christmas Decorations
DMI plays a key role in spreading holiday cheer by adorning downtown Marion with festive street decorations each year. These decorations create a warm and inviting holiday atmosphere, drawing visitors downtown to shop, dine, and enjoy the seasonal charm. This initiative enhances Marion’s appeal during the holiday season and adds to the overall festive experience for residents and visitors.
Historic Plaque Project
The Historic Plaque Project aims to educate residents and visitors about Marion’s rich history. Informative plaques placed on historic downtown buildings recognize their significance and celebrate Marion’s heritage, adding another layer of cultural interest to the downtown area.
Events That Bring Marion Together
DMI organizes a wide range of events that draw people to downtown Marion, creating experiences that foster community connection and drive traffic to local businesses. These events showcase the heart of Marion and give residents and visitors reasons to return downtown time and again.
Third Thursdays
Held on the third Thursday of each month from May to September, Third Thursdays is a popular series that transforms downtown Marion into a lively event space. The series features live music, food trucks, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities, offering a little something for everyone. Third Thursdays bring together Marion residents and visitors, supporting local vendors and creating a vibrant downtown atmosphere.
Downtown Marion Cookie Walk
The Cookie Walk is a new addition to DMI’s lineup, inviting participants to explore downtown Marion while collecting cookies from various local businesses. This fun and interactive event is a hit with families and anyone who enjoys supporting local shops while indulging their sweet tooth.
Annual Monster Dash 5K
As part of Marion’s Halloween festivities, the Monster Dash 5K invites community members to join in a fun and spooky race through downtown. The 5K promotes fitness and community engagement and has quickly become a seasonal favorite.
Annual Fall Festival
Debuting this year, the Fall Festival brings together live music, food trucks, and local vendors in a seasonal celebration. This festival encourages the community to celebrate autumn together in a fun and festive atmosphere, with activities and entertainment for all ages.
Annual Downtown Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
The Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony are beloved traditions that bring holiday cheer to downtown Marion. The parade features festive floats and community participants, while the Tree Lighting at Founders Park marks the beginning of the holiday season. These events are highlights of the winter season, drawing large crowds and enhancing the holiday spirit throughout Marion.
Annual Pictures with Santa and The Grinch
DMI offers family photo opportunities with Santa and The Grinch, bringing joy to local families and creating lasting memories. These events allow families to capture moments with iconic holiday characters while engaging with downtown businesses.
DMI Christmas Gala
The DMI Christmas Gala is a festive gathering that offers live music, food, a cash bar, and entertainment, adding to Marion’s holiday festivities. The gala gives residents a chance to enjoy the season while experiencing downtown Marion’s hospitality and community spirit.
Downtown Marion Inc. exists to make downtown Marion a vibrant and thriving place where shopping, dining, entertainment, and community life all come together. Through our programs like Downtown Marion Dollars, The Cardinal Project, and the Adopt-a-Flower Bed initiative, along with festive events that bring people together year-round, we’re helping Marion grow and connect as a community. These efforts are already making a difference, creating a welcoming environment that supports local businesses and draws visitors from across the region.
Our progress relies on the involvement and support of the entire community. By working together, we can make downtown Marion a destination that reflects the spirit and pride of everyone who calls Marion home.
We invite you to be part of this journey—visit downtown, join us at an event, or consider supporting DMI as a volunteer or sponsor. Each person’s contribution, big or small, helps keep downtown Marion moving forward
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