People partying in pajamas

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
November 28, 2016 10:00 a.m.

Pajama clad shoppers jammed downtown Fernandina shops.
Pajama clad shoppers jammed downtown Fernandina shops the day after Thanksgiving.

dscn7916Youngsters and not-so-youngsters, families and friends both of the two- and four-legged varieties swarmed Centre Street for the annual Black Friday Pajama Party and costume contest sponsored by the Historic Fernandina Business Association.  Event organizers, in addition to providing music, managed to get cooperation from the weather as well.  Turkey-stuffed locals and visitors waddled from one downtown store to another, taking advantage of discounts and sales while sampling cookies and cider at every stop.

Pajama Dave presents contestants to audience as judges look on.
Pajama Dave presents contestants to audience as judges look on.

Pajama Dave Voorhees emceed the main event:  the 46-entry costume contest at the Train Depot.  Toy soldiers, snowmen (and snowwomen), elves, a dinosaur, and even a live bunny participated.  Judging by the applause and audience reactions, all the contestants were prize winners.

More photos of Centre Street visitors enjoying Pajama Day 2016 …

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Suanne Thamm 4Editor’s Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne’s many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.