Tybee Island launches winter incentives to boost off-season foot traffic

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (WTOC) - Tybee Island is launching new winter incentives to attract visitors during the traditionally slow season, including free ice skating on the pier and extended parking discounts.

“The city and the Main Street Program are just looking for really exciting, family-friendly ways to bring people out here during the off-season,” said Cassidi Kendrick with the City of Tybee Island.

Free parking runs through New Year’s Day, with half-price parking continuing through Feb. 28.

“Tybee is primarily a business community of locally owned businesses, mom and pop shops,” Kendrick said. “So anything that we can do to support our entrepreneurs out here on the island, we want to do that.”

Local businesses say the winter incentives are welcome during the slower months. Seth Musler, at Sand Cat Coffee, said the support is especially appreciated during their first year on the island.

“Anything that the city wants to do to try and bring more folks in this time of year is really great for us,” Musler said. “And I think for a lot of other business owners on the island.”

Holiday events scheduled

The island is hosting several festive events during the holiday season to attract more visitors.

The Tybee Island Christmas Parade of Lights is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m. The Tybee Island Holiday Market will be held Saturday, Dec. 13 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

New Year’s Fireworks are planned for Wednesday, Dec. 31 at midnight, followed by the Tybee Island Polar Plunge on Thursday, Jan. 1 at noon.