Christmas is alive in Allentown

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - Santa paid a visit to Allentown Friday night to spread holiday cheer.

Business owners want to spread the word about what the art district has to offer during the holidays and year round.

A tree lighting put an extra spotlight on Allentown's monthly, "First Friday Gallery Walk".

Allentown isn't thought of as your traditional retail corridor in Buffalo, but leaders want to change that thinking.

Matthew Ryan, the Allentown Association Board President said, "We are the place to buy art."

Studio Hart Gallery owner, Barbara Hart remarked, "You don't have to feel weird going into an art gallery. It's a friendly experience."

Art galleries up and down Allen Street, Elmwood, and Virginia Place kept their doors open into the evening, hoping to attract holiday shoppers with some good deals.

Barbara also said, "You are getting a one of a kind piece, especially this time of year. There's a lot of work available at a lower price than it normally would be."

Allentown business don't want to compete with the Elmwood Village. They just want people to window shop and hopefully see something they like.

Kathleen Shoemaker exclaimed, "It's a city village experience. They can come in and walk around and get the feel of a bigger place."

"Also get a sense of the role art plays in the life of Buffalo," Keith Elkins said.

Allentown leaders hope if they can hook 'em in with art, bigger things will follow.

Allentown Association Board President, Matthew Ryan explained, "We think they'll stay for dinner, realize what great restaurants we have and they might see some of the architecture and realize some of the great home values. Then see the people and realize what a great community it is to live."