Cedarhurst Summer Sidewalk Sale thrives despite heat wave

Not even a heat wave could deter the shoppers at Cedarhurst’s annual Summer Sidewalk Sale, a four-day event hosted by the village’s Business Improvement District July 10, 11, 12 and 14.

Visitors crowded Central Avenue and several side streets, looking bargains at retail outlets and restaurants.

Known as the South Shore’s fashion center for over 100 years, central Cedarhurst saw the large crowds on Thursday, the sidewalk sale’s second day, with shoppers from the Five Towns, many surrounding communities and as far away as New Jersey and Connecticut roaming the upscale shops and boutiques.

More than 80 stores took part. In all, there are more than 280 storefronts in Cedarhurst, according to the Village Business Improvement District.

“I’ve been doing the sidewalk sale for as many years as the sidewalk sale has been in effect,” said Judy Kalatsky, owner of David’s Den, a modest women’s dress store. “I’ve been in this spot in town over 35 years.”

Kalatsky said she knows the community is grateful for the sale, but those who travel a ways to take part appreciate it even more. Some annual returnees look forward to the event’s one-time bargains all year long.

“It definitely generates a lot of foot traffic and a lot of business for the neighborhood,” Kalatsky said. “It definitely gets people out and gives them something to do on a hot day, because all the stores are air conditioned and it’s a fun thing to do.”

The clothing stores offer deals on a wide range of styles. Linor Azizian, 17, came to the sale expecting most “frum,” or religious, clothing, but instead was surprised to see so many options.

“I see a variety of different types of clothing for how religious you want to be, and I like how it has a little bit of everything,” Azizian said.

Jeremy and Cindy Merrill, the owners of Dimples, a custom baby gift store, have taken part in the sidewalk sale for 18 years. “We created a gifting category, and it’s very much a part of babies being born in this neighborhood,” Jeremy said.

This was their last sale, because they were planning to close their business this week, in order to pursue a different path and send time with family. In the meantime, Dimples’ outside tables featured not only the usual baby items, but also offerings like magnets and baked goods that the proceeds were being donated to help Israel amid its ongoing war in Gaza. The Merrills have raised $100,000 for Israel in the past nine months.

“It’s a very emotional experience,” Cindy said of shutting the business down. “We’re getting rid of whatever we can and donating the rest. We always love the sidewalk sale.”

She added that she was blessed to have been part of such an extraordinary, welcoming community and to have seen all the babies in town grow up.

“It’s the best time of year,” she said of the sale. “You get to see all your amazing customers come, and you’re happy to be able to give them the deals.”