From Valentine’s booms to new beginnings, Salisbury celebrates economic wins

SALISBURY, Md. — Valentine’s Day may be over, but the City of Salisbury’s Shop Small Saturday was a hit. WMDT’s Haley Rae spoke with city officials about the holiday’s economic impact and a new hotel coming to town.

Bill Chambers, CEO and president of the Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce, said, “This was a big weekend for our area. With Valentine’s falling on a Saturday, we saw restaurant revenues up 30 to 40 percent.”

Takeout sales also saw a 20 percent increase above the average weekend. Valentine’s Day is a major consumer holiday that supports local businesses, even through the slower months.

“Typically, January, February, and up until Saint Patrick’s Day are tough for the hospitality industry — not only in Salisbury but on the Lower Shore. So, this was a good boost for that industry,” Chambers said.

He emphasized that shopping local supports more than just businesses — it supports neighbors.

“It’s your neighbors and their children, and your friends who are employed by these mom-and-pop local establishments. If you want to keep the character of the community, you have to support local businesses,” Chambers said.

The movement doesn’t stop at candy, flowers, and restaurants. On Thursday, Salisbury will introduce a long-awaited hotel to town.

“The DoubleTree by Hilton property features a brand-new restaurant, completely renovated rooms, meeting spaces, and public areas. It’s going to become a real jewel for downtown,” Chambers said.

The goal is to bring more visitors to downtown Salisbury.

“We hope those guests will venture out of the property and explore some of the other restaurants, shops, and retailers downtown. I know the retailers and other businesses have been eagerly awaiting the opening of this property,” Chambers said.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new DoubleTree will take place Thursday at 4 p.m. The hotel is located at 300 S. Salisbury Blvd., Salisbury, MD 21801.