Walking the Courthouse Square

Before I moved here, visiting Prescott was a favorite destination spot of mine. It was a short drive away and I was able to escape the insanity of the bigger cities for a few hours or a few days. Sometimes I was able to rent a small place close to the downtown area or stay in a local hotel just walking distance from the square. Other times I stayed in places just a bit further down the road from the square.

No matter what though, I loved making a point of heading downtown to explore the wonderful shops, visit some great locations for coffee or food, and sometimes just to wander downtown and take in the views and people watch.
I’ve walked through the Courthouse Square when it was loaded up with people during the summer months. Vendor booths and arts and crafts were proudly displayed in hopes that a passerby might stop and purchase some of the wares they had to offer.  I’ve taken in the beauty of the fall weather as the leaves began to fall during a quieter day where most people at the square are doing much the same as I was. Wandering the shops and taking in the sights. I’ve wandered after dark in the cold chill of winter, snow on the ground and lights strung in the trees in a breathtaking Christmas display. I’ve marveled at the beauty of spring as life returned and the chill of winter slowly gave way to warmer temps and a promise of upcoming summer fun.

I’ve had the pleasure of watching countless parades circle the Courthouse Square. It has been wonderful seeing the Rodeo Days Parade, the Veterans Day Parade, the Lights Parade to kick off the Christmas season. One of my favorite times to visit the square before and after moving here is Acker night. This night the entire downtown area is filled with people from one end to the other but it never feels overwhelming. If the crowds in one area get to be too much, one can easily move to another spot and find some room to breath. No matter how busy though, I’ve seen amazing talent from brass bands and  ukulele groups to wonderful bluegrass bands and violin performances. Hands down, Acker night is a favorite time to explore the square.
From all my visits to Prescott Courthouse Square, I’ve had a unique experience each time. It is something I definitely look forward to doing each time I head down to the square, even now that I live here.