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Bristol wins online competition as "Most Charming" town in America

April 06, 2016

Source: Bristol Herald Courier | Bristol, Tennessee/Virginia has been named ShopOnMain’s most “Charming Town” in America and willnow be featured in an upcoming episode of the TVseries "Small Town, Big Deal."

The onlinecompetition separated various cities from across the country into three categories – bustling, charming and quaint – depending on population, with one winner named in each category.

More than 100 cities were part of the competition with more than20,000 votes cast. Bristol received 3,640 votes, garnering more than 700 more votes than the runner-up, Holland, Michigan, according to a news release.

The Bristol Convention and Visitors Bureau spearheaded a campaign to make local residents aware of the contest and get them to vote.

“We are very excited to see Bristol Tennessee/Virginia win the Charming Town category in the Best Shopping on Main Contest,” said Matt Bolas, executive director of the Bristol CVB. “Bristol’s downtown is so vibrant and unique that we knew once the local community and visitors realized that we were in the running for this prestigious honor, we had a great chance to win.

“The true winners of this contest are our businesses, restaurants and retailers who make historic Downtown Bristol a great place to shop.”

Believe in Bristol Executive Director Christina Blevins is thrilled that Bristol is being recognized nationally.

“Shopping in downtown Bristol is truly blossoming, from antiques to clothing stores and art galleries and so much more, Bristol really has it going on. Seek the unique! Believe in Bristol thanks everyone for their support downtown and we hope to continue with this type of success! Congratulations downtown Bristol!”

Along with being featured on "Small Town, Big Deal," Bristol also figures prominently on ShopOnMain’s website — www.shoponmain.com/l/bestshoppingonmain.