Started nearly a year ago, Ladies Night Out, an event held on the McDonough Square the second Thursday of every month from 6 to 9 p.m., continues to be an event for women of all ages to enjoy.

The night was started to encourage women to spend a night on the town locally, supporting McDonough restaurants and businesses.

“It started in April of last year,” said Casey Case, spokesperson for the city. “We worked with the businesses to organize the ladies night out. Most of the businesses stay open late to accommodate the shopping and the eating.”

According to Case, the night has been a success since the beginning.

“The restaurants are usually packed or very full from this event,” she said. “The merchants all seem to really enjoy having a lot customers visiting their shop or restaurant.”

All of the businesses on the square participate in the night, including Bliss Bakery, a stomping ground for sugary sweet concoctions housed in paper liners and topped with oodles of icing.

“I love ladies night because it is a place for women to have a place to go and enjoy having a little time to themselves,” said Owner Shelley DeLisle. “They usually come here after they finish dinner and it seems to be a well-received event.”

Case agreed.

“It’s a very positive thing,” said Case. “The ladies love coming out with their friends or lady family members. Women have come from Covington, Milton and Conyers. They just have a wonderful time.”

Attendees not only have a chance to peruse local business but also can enter into a drawing. A gift basket is given away to one lucky resident at the conclusion of the evening.

Upcoming Ladies Night Out dates include Sept. 13, Oct. 11 and Nov. 8.