Any time a business closes in Marshall a lot of criticism is directed toward the city, especially on social media.

While businesses do close now and then, new businesses are opening up as well. Take a stroll down Main Street and you will notice the changes. You will also find a vibrant retail atmosphere that offers a variety of products and services.

It’s not the city’s responsibility to advertise for a particular business. But several organizations connected with the city work tirelessly to market the retail community as a whole. On Thursday, the Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce, the Marshall Downtown Business Association and the Visit Marshall will be working together to promote retail outlets by hosting Crazy Days during the day and Eats and Beats on Third Street in the evening.

There will be enough activities, food and entertainment to keep people busy throughout the day and evening. And don’t forget the opportunity to shop for bargains.

Merchants on Main Street will move sales racks onto the street that will be closed to vehicle traffic. While there will be numerous food trucks in the street; established Main Street restaurants will be offering deals as well.

Crazy Days activities include a scavenger hunt at the Lyon County Museum, kiddie parade, dance party and story time for children, live music by the Music Street music store, a candy drop, petting zoo and a happy hour.

As Crazy Days concludes, Eats and Beats will kick off with the band Buffalo Alice playing dance-floor ready classic rock and country music. Outdoor alcohol sales will continue as well, with food trucks operating on Third Street. And some retail outlets will join the local restaurants and bars to remain open.

Again, the Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce, the Marshall Downtown Business Association and Visit Marshall are doing what they can to market and offer opportunities to support the Marshall business community.

Crazy Days and Eats and Beats are great opportunities for all of us to show support businesses to not only remain open, but thrive and offer services for years to come.