Early spring weather in North Idaho can often be described with three words: cold, windy, rainy. It's the kind of weather that makes people want to huddle indoors until warmer days arrive.

The Coeur d'Alene Downtown Association hopes to entice locals to head outside despite the gray skies and visit downtown shops with its inaugural "Weekend Getaway Giveaway."

"Spring is slower for the businesses downtown, so we wanted to do something that would spark activity," said Emily Boyd, association executive director.

People can enter to win through April 28 when they shop at any of the 34 participating downtown locations.

Two packages valued over $1,000 are being offered, including a one-night stay at either One Lakeside or The Coeur d’Alene Resort. 

Other prizes include $800 in gift certificates to downtown shops and eateries.

"You get the full downtown experience," Boyd said.

Last year, the association tried what was called "Winter Lights," from late January to early February. It was described as a “journey through an illuminated and immersive wonderland of large-scale, light-based artworks.”

Illuminated artwork was scattered across downtown, highlighted by “The Tunnel” on the front lawn of The Resort and “The Beacon” in McEuen Park.

Downtown businesses offered special events, sales and window displays.

The idea was to give folks a reason to get outside and visit local businesses in the lull following Christmas.

While Winter Lights did attract good crowds, the association didn't bring it back, as it was a substantial investment. Instead, it elected to do something that has long proven effective at getting customers into stores: Free stuff.

"It's incentive to bring people downtown and to support businesses during the shoulder season," Boyd said.

According to an analysis funded by the city, the downtown area plays a key role in economic development.

It said younger families are coming to downtown, visiting parks and then walking to the shops/restaurants.

"The downtown area is a charming element of the community that provides desired amenities such as restaurants and retail," the report said. "Focused attention on supporting the existing businesses and catering to the local community is important."

Entering for a chance to win the weekend getaway is simple and you don't have to buy anything. All you need to do is visit a participating business and submit an entry through the QR code near the store's checkout counter. 

But those who make a purchase will double their chances. Winners will be announced April 30.

Boyd said besides the prizes and opportunity to visit local shops and meet staff and owners, the giveaway offers something else at what can be a dreary time of the year.

"It will be fun," she said.

Info: cdadowntown.com/weekend-getaway