Local merchants participating in Saturday’s holiday open house reported fewer visitors this year than in previous years, but still touted the event as a successful day for the Libby business community.

Event organizer Allen Olsen of Antler Tree Nursery & Gifts said more than 1,000 people visited participating retailers and entered the gift-basket drawing. It was the fifth year of the pre-Black Friday shopping event, in which participating businesses in Libby offer sales, extended hours, free holiday munchies and prizes to give people an incentive to shop local.

Gloria Harris, owner Fresh Beginnings Spa, echoed Olsen’s sentiment.

“It was not as busy as last year, but it was still fun,” Harris said. “Even if it’s one new customer, it still helps.”

Harris said two new people mentioned to her that they didn’t even know her spa existed.

“I’ve been involved every year and plan to keep it that way,” she said.

Stephanie Lacoss, owner of Studio 310, thought it was strange that the numbers were down from last year.

“Maybe it was the weather,” she said. “It was a little slower than last year, less people. But it’s definitely worth it.”

Margie Kratofil, an employee at Rivermist Home Décor, reported a great turnout.

“It was great for us, a really good day,” Kratofil said. “We had lots of people and really good sales for the day. We were hopping.”

Shopping locally benefits the entire community, Olsen said.

“Local businesses are the ones who support community events and provide jobs to local residents,” he said.

Diane Troyer, who sells her artwork at Montana Gallery USA, said the same thing: “It’s very important to get that local exposure. I believe it was very good, and we look forward to doing it again next year.”

Many of these local businesses, as well as several others, will also be participating in Girl’s Night Out from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Dec. 4. Girl’s Night Out will feature one-night-only sales, door prizes, and a drawing for a $100 gift card to any of the participating businesses.