HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) - The Saint Patrick's Committee of Holyoke brought the community together for an evening of holiday cheer and shopping, to support local businesses and a beloved tradition. Dozens came out for The committee's first "Holiday Sip & Shop" at the Holyoke Elks Lodge Wednesday night. Shoppers had the opportunity to support their favorite local businesses and find unique gifts for their loved ones. All proceeds from raffles and table fees from vendors..go to support the Saint Patrick's parade. Chair of the event Craig Haslam told 22News, "We know we have it every year, it's community-driven and we wanted to plan this event because these are all local vendors and crafters." "We're seeing a lot of friends, a lot of people in the community and we're just thankful to see everyone here to support us," adds committee member Carolyn Edwards. The countdown begins for the 72nd Holyoke St. Patrick's Parade on Sunday, March 23rd, which will be aired live in its entirety on 22News and right here on WWLP.com. Local News Headlines Holyoke exhibit highlights Latinx transgender voices Holyoke ‘Holiday Sip and Shop’ supports St. Patrick’s parade AIC hockey moves to Division 2 after 27 seasons Mass Clean Energy Week brought EVs to a Palmer racetrack WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.