The downtown streets were full of people carrying bags throughout the downtown district.

The weather couldn’t have been better, everyone agreed.

Smiles were everywhere, from business owners to the patrons enjoying special treats, promotions, and seeking out the new businesses located throughout Webster City.

“It was a huge success,” said Peggy Joslin, who stayed open beyond the 2 p.m. closing. “It was such a nice variety of people, and many from out of town.”

Submitted photo
The charcuterie boxes were a big hit. The boxes were available to pre-order and picnic tables were decorated in the Availa Plaza.

Joslin, who owns Country Twist boutique said she didn’t have enough dressing rooms. “I had people trying on clothes everywhere,” she said. “I need more mirrors.”

John Marvel, who opened his Mornin’ Glory coffee shop at 7 a.m. echoed Joslin.

“We stayed open a few extra hours,” he agreed. “People were enjoying the day. My hat’s off to the chamber for putting on a great event.”

Marvel offers charcuterie boxes for these types of special events, and those were popular, with the chamber pre-ordering so they had adequate supplies. But they did sell out of the boxes.

“Business has been actually very good in 2026,” said Marvel. “But you have to do something to get people to come into your store.”

Freeman-Journal photo by Kolleen Taylor
These ladies stopped strolling long enough to enjoy the charcuterie box they pre-ordered as part of the Spring Stroll on Saturday. From left to right are Amelia Oliver, Sherry Adams, Sara Trueblood, and Janet Adams. The charcuterie boxes were created by Mornin' Glory, with sponsorship by Tami Hejik.

Joslin agreed, “They love the little extras, I just love these events, we all increase our sales so much.”

Joslin figured she had over a 30% increase over last year’s event.

Robin Streigle said overall it went very well.

“Retailers that I checked in with were so very happy.” Streigle said.

People just didn’t stroll, they shopped, she said.

The turnout was a welcome relief for many of the businesses who have seen much lower sales ever since Christmas. The weather has been blamed for much of that, but it cooperated Saturday.

Many of the shoppers received the scratchoff discount tickets that can be used on a return visit.

That’s what they hope, and that is what they need.

The next major event coordinated by the chamber is on May 23, with JunqueFest 2026 and the citywide garage sales. Market Nights, the Thursday night farmer’s market and crafts and art, will begin on June 11.