Sequim Gazette staff

The longest day of the year in Sequim goes retro this year as 20 downtown businesses are slashing prices 60-90 percent on the summer solstice to bring certain items to 1960s prices for their first Moonlight Madness Sale from 5-8 p.m. on Friday, June 21.

Eateries to art galleries and supplies to books to retailers come together to celebrate the Sequim Centennial’s theme of the Sixties for the event. People are encouraged to dress up.

Nancy Lawrence with the Blue Whole Gallery suggested the idea and local businesses jumped at the chance to participate, said Liz Harper, co-organizer.

“There will be lots of things for five or 10 bucks or less,” Harper said.

“It’s regular and discounted merchandise at even lower prices and everything is within walking distance.”

The event is rain or shine and if weather permits businesses will place discounted wares on tables outside.

While the event is similar to the First Friday Art Walk, Shirley Mercer, owner of the LARC Gallery, said they hope to reach a new audience.

“Art walk people know where we are but what about everybody else?” she asked.

Other retailers such as Danielle Owens with Heather Creek and Eileen Cummings, co-owner of Colors of Sequim, also see it as a chance to sell merchandise to make room for even more new items.

“We also want to keep bringing people downtown,” Cummings said.

While all participants are having significant markdowns, Nora Polizzi, co-owner of A Dropped Stitch, said it’s such a special event that the regular-priced items are for this event only and will go back to 2013 prices the next day.

For a complete list of participants, look for a green map inside downtown businesses on Washington Street, Sequim Avenue, Bell Street and Second Street.

For more information, contact Liz Harper at 683-7698.