Monday, December 18, 2017 11:16 am

Taking a cigar break from working the toy factory, St. Nick enjoys a draw on a fine stogie at Radloff's Cigar Shop on North Main St. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - Santa Claus has been spotted doing holiday shopping in downtown Rochester this year, and he hopes area residents are doing the same.

According to Rochester Main Street executive director Angela Mills, old St. Nick has been visiting various downtown businesses to spread some joy and goodwill, and the benefits of shopping locally.

Even Santa knows that shopping locally helps people find more unique gifts this holiday season, and it also helps keep money in Rochester, Mills said in a press release today.

To show their appreciation for shopping, dining, and doing business downtown, Rochester Main Street is hosting a Milk & Cookies with Santa event. For every $20 spent in downtown Rochester, this December, shoppers will receive one entry for them and their children to win milk and cookies with Santa Claus.

The Santa and cookies event will take place in Collec-tiques's Lego Lounge on Friday at 6 p.m.

Santa is looking forward to enjoying time with the children this holiday season.

To enter the contest, just send Rochester Main Street a photo of your receipt showing a transaction at a downtown business, and you'll be entered to win time with Santa. Send your photos via email at director@rochestermainstreet.org or message Rochester Main Street on Facebook.

For more info contact Rochester Main Street office at 603-330-3208 or director@rochestermainstreet.org.