30 Years of Strolling: Best Out West Looks Forward to Christmas Stroll All Year Long

After nearly 25 years at Best Out West Antiques and Collectibles – first as a vendor and later as the manager – Darla Judes still looks forward to Christmas Stroll every year.

“Sheridan is a wonderful community and Stroll is an event to behold,” Judes said. “At Best Out West, we talk year-round with visitors to the area about Christmas Stroll…the sparkling lights, the beautiful store windows, the carolers and musicians and Mr. and Mrs. Claus!”

Best Out West has helped welcome in the season with Christmas Stroll every year since its inception. Below, Judes shares a bit about why she continues to get excited about the event, year after year.

Why has your business been a longtime supporter of Christmas Stroll?

 Since 1996, the very first Christmas Stroll, we have enjoyed being involved with the hub-bub and festivities of the day! While it brings throngs of shoppers and great sales to the store, it is the feelings of family togetherness, community unity and excitement that keep us participating. 

Do you have a favorite Christmas Stroll theme?

12 Days of Christmas Stroll, which, in our windows, included the “Partridge Family” in a pear tree! That is followed by Sugar Plum Stroll featuring  shimmering crystal, sugar frosted, pink, blues and purples! (Editor’s Note: “Sugar Plum Stroll” was the 2014 theme while “12 Days of Christmas” was the 2019 theme.)

How has participating in Christmas Stroll benefitted your business?

The customer traffic and sales are always amazing. Many store regulars, new customers and family groups take the opportunity to venture in and take a gander. They use Stroll day to jump start their holiday shopping and pay close attention to each other to get the best holiday gift ideas. But Stroll day isn’t the only great day for holiday shopping. People come back the next day and week after to grab various items they spied earlier!