El Paseo kicks off “Summer Chill” shopping, dining deals

Foot traffic tends to die down in the desert as the temperatures rise and some businesses on El Paseo in Palm Desert start to feel the “June gloom.”

“The summer’s slow. Everyone knows the snowbirds have left. We try to be creative,” said Sherry Mesa, owner of Sherry Mesa Salon.

This year 250-plus retailers and restaurants will stay open and welcome June with “Summer Chill,” a program for the mile-long shopping district that offers special promotions, discounts and events through summer.

“It’s probably a good idea because it’s extremely hot,” said Kylie Wiltman from Wisconsin. “I really like shopping out here. They have a lot different styles than in Wisconsin. I kind of spend a lot here.”

Mesa salon said it’ll offer happy hour Fridays, complimentary hair how-to’s and more.

“Putting ourselves out there, and bringing people to El Paseo. It’s about keeping our stores open we don’t close in the summer like we used to,” said Mesa.

With pre fixe menus or a shuttle rides to these blow out sales and new art exhibitions. The hope is to attract locals and visitors alike.

“If we could all work together and keep the street alive, it would be great, a lot of fun for everybody,” said Mesa.

You can find the full list of Summer Chill participating businesses at www.elpaseosummerfun.com