PORTLAND, Maine — The months of January and February are traditionally some of the slowest months of the year for many Maine businesses. That's why the non-profit Portland Downtown has introduced 207 Day to help bring more Mainers and visitors out to dozens of local businesses throughout Maine's largest city.
"We're always looking for ways to try and help our downtown retailers, our independent retailers," said Portland Downtown executive director Cary Tyson.
207 Day will include a three-day citywide scavenger hunt throughout Portland. Participants in the free event will make their way around the city to scan QR codes, snap photos of various Portland landmarks, shop at city storefronts, and more to complete scavenger hunt tasks.
Players who complete enough tasks will be entered into a raffle for prizes.
"It's a great way to show local pride," said Tyson.
207 Day is modeled after similar celebrations in other cities across the country that mark a date based on a city or state's respective area code. Maine's 207 area code and the date 2/07/2022 was the perfect fit for Portland Downtown to mark its scavenger hunt.
"It's based upon our area code, and really should be a national holiday from my perspective," Ty son said.
The Scavenger Hunt began Saturday and participants can take part until Monday at midnight.
Many businesses featured discounts as well, such as coffee and tea for $2.07 at Copper Branch, and 20.7% off any order with 2 or 7 flavors at Gelato Fiasco.
"It's just been a blast seeing everyone enjoying themselves and supporting local," said Kevin Ouellette, owner of the Maine Souvenir Shop on Exchange Street. The Maine Souvenir Shop was offering free 207 pins to all coming into the shop.
Ouellette says his store has seen almost a 100% increase in business compared to the previous weekend.
"What's really been exciting is you're getting to see these families coming in, these couples coming in, these friends coming in and really, and really discovering new art, and new stores," said Ouellette.
The Maine Souvenir Shop features all Maine-made or designed items.
"It's been really nice to have something local where people have a reason to scavenger hunt around the city," said Samantha Allen, part-owner of the Grateful Cup on Veranda Street.
The Grateful Cup opened earlier this week in Portland and took part in the scavenger hunt. The new smoothie shop is offering $2.07 off each drink for customers.
"It's nice to have people seeking us out who wouldn't actually have heard of us without it," said Allen.
Tyson says he hopes to make this an annual tradition throughout Portland.
"Our inaugural 207 Day is a chance for us to celebrate all things Maine. We’ll offer some fun and creative ways to explore, unique opportunities to engage with our rich history, and offers from some of your favorite downtown shops. Every February 7 we’ll be celebrating 207 Day. This is only the beginning," said Tyson.