Georgia Street kicks off City Sidewalks holiday celebration

Christmas trees, holiday cookies, ice-skating, even elves -- Georgia Street is dressed in holiday style. 

"We thought it would be fun to do a little family Christmas together, so we thought we would check it out," said Kristi Durso, City Sidewalks on Georgia Street attendee.

Kristi and Tony Durso brought their kids to City Sidewalks not only for the opportunity to put ornaments on the Christmas tree along Georgia Street, but for another activity that grabbed their attention too.

"Ice skating," said Tony Durso. "The kids really enjoyed that tonight."

Replicating Super Bowl crowds along Georgia Street has become quite the challenge. The Dursos witnessed those crowds first-hand.

"That was crazy, but it was fun," said Kristi Durso.

Events since the big game have been sparsely attended at best.  Organizers said they are learning that teamwork is the key to making this 3-block stretch a more popular destination.

"When there is a mass of people at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, or at the Convention Center," said Georgia Street Organizer Melissa Thompson,  "that really draws people down so we look for ways to partner with both of those venues to use Georgia Street as part of what they are doing."

The city is willing to invest in Georgia Street's future.  This weekend's winter transformation comes with a $50,000 price-tag. Ice skating alone cost $15,000.

Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard said it was an investment in the street's future popularity.

"What we are trying to do is use this street the best way we can," said Mayor Greg Ballard.  "We have made it so that it is capable for almost anything and during the season I think it makes a lot of sense for a lot of folks."

On day one, attendees had to brave the rain, organizers hope Saturday and Sunday bring better weather and much better crowds.  The Dursos said they recommend these City Sidewalks for the holiday.

"Everyone I spoke to had not even heard of this, so in a few years, when word gets out, it could definitely build up," said Tony Durso.

Saturday, Dec. 8, City Sidewalks on Georgia Street opens at noon and is open until 8 p.m.  It will be open from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 9.