Downtown Winchester wants to be your destination for holiday shopping.

To make it easier and more convenient, participating shops are staying open late every Thursday through the holiday shopping season. Fourteen downtown retailers plus Engine House Deli + Pub will be open until at least 7 p.m. every Thursday through Dec. 15, with some (like the pub) staying open even later.

Many of the retailers are pairing the later shopping hours with special events and promotions. The Prissy Peach Boutique, for example, will be offering Thirsty Thursday promotions and will be open until 8 p.m. Several retailers are also offering free gift wrapping with purchase — which truly makes downtown your one stop shop for completing your holiday gift list.

“Once you get home, all you’ll need to do is place your gifts under the tree, kick up your feet, and give yourself a pat on the back for supporting local businesses,” Main Street Winchester Director Rachel Alexander said.

Don’t forget the gift of experience.

“Many people would rather receive an experience rather than more stuff,” Alexander said. “They prefer to receive something like an art class or even a gift card so they can come downtown and experience the fun of downtown shopping on their own.”

Most downtown retailers offer gift certificates. Dirty South Pottery, Created by You Ceramics Studio and Mason on Main all offer classes or workshops throughout the year, she said.

“Is someone on your list artsy or creative?” Alexander said. “Maybe they’d liked like to learn to throw their own pottery or they’ve been dying to learn how to DIY a wreath — you can find that here! And while you’re at it, you can join in the class with them. What better gift is there than quality time with the people we love?”

A wide range of retailers are participating in shop late Thursdays, which ensures that you can find just the right gift for every person on your list.

Find unique items and a personal shopping experience every Thursday this holiday season at Eklektic Alchemy (mid-century modern antiques and collectibles), Dirty South Pottery, Court Street Gifts, Mason on Main, Jako’s Boutique & Candles, The Prissy Peach Boutique, Bentley & Murray, Sugar Belle’s Boutique, Created by You Ceramics Studio, Plowshares Trading Post, Bargains on Broadway & Café, Harper’s Jewelry, Winchester Glassworks and Wizards of Game.

For more information visit www.downtownwinchesterky.org or www.facebook.com/downtownwinchester.