Whether or not the spring-like temperatures last, many downtown Winchester businesses are planning a special mid-winter event Thursday evening.

Beginning at 5 p.m., the third annual Winter Walkabout will involve 17 businesses throughout downtown will each have special sales and other things for customers to experience and see.

“It gives other people a chance to come down and see some of the stores,” said Anne Baldwin of Court Street Gifts. “It’s always fun because there’s usually a good crowd wandering around.”

Businesses are participating including local restaurants, antique stores and clothing stores, she said.

“I know most businesses will have refreshments,” she said. “Some will be having sales and try to showcase some of their merchandise.”

Court Street Gifts is partnering with Harkness Edwards Winery, she said, and Elizabeth Saint will be on hand making floral arrangements.

Participating businesses will also be open until 8 p.m.

Past events have attracted people from the surrounding counties as well, including people from Mount Sterling, Paris, Lexington and Richmond, she said.

“It brings in people from all over,” she said. “We still need to get people downtown.”