The Oakdale Chamber of Commerce will host its Pours in Stores event in downtown Oakdale Thursday, Oct. 11 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Attendees will find a selection of wine or brews at each of the 17 participating merchants, close to doubling last year’s numbers.

“It’s the merchants talking to other merchants,” Mary Guardiola, Oakdale Chamber of Commerce CEO said of the event’s growth and the power of word of mouth.

According to Guardiola the event is planned twice yearly, early April, just prior to ramping up for rodeo and the second week of October, just prior to the holiday season.

The Chamber encourages participants to wine taste their way through area shops to improve the local economy by promoting the downtown as an entertainment district; thus, increasing patron’s awareness and building future clients for these businesses. Guardiola said the Chamber “wants to promote an Eat, Drink and Be Local mentality” and “events like Pours in Stores and Taste of Oakdale help showcase the very best of our community.”

This time patrons can start their night off at one of two check-in locations; Bordona’s Furniture and Appliances at 102 W. F St., or at Oak Valley Community Bank, 125 N. Third Ave. Upon check in, attendees will receive a commemorative wine glass and a map of pouring locations. They will also offer the first tasting for the night. Fine wines, brews, hard ciders, sangrias and non-alcoholic choices will all be available.

“This time we have people that are participating on First, Second and Third avenues,” Guardiola said of the growth and true “stroll” opportunity for attendees.

Pre-paid tickets are $25 and they will be $35 at the door. Online registration is available at oakdalechamber.com or purchase tickets at the Oakdale Chamber, 590 N Yosemite Ave. Additional event information can also be found on their Facebook page.

Participating merchants include: Alexandra’s Home & Garden, Antique Emporium, Astro Thrift & Gift, At the Corner, Femme Bricoleuse, Foxy Designs by London Fox, Lori’s Frame Shoppe, Oakdale Museum, Pamyla’s Salon Spa Retreat, Past and Present Antiques, Remember When Again at Nicole’s, Rustic Market, S&C Insurance Agency, State Farm Insurance and Financial Services and Valley First Credit Union.

The CEO further stated the initial concept for the event was taken from a Chamber event in Washington State, one which concluded with more of a party atmosphere.

“I don’t want a party,” Guardiola said of eliminating that portion of the adapted event. “I want to keep them shopping.”