Hundreds of shoppers lined Lincoln Avenue in Groves Sunday afternoon.

The occasion was the kickoff of the annual Christmas Tree Trail to Groves, an annual Chamber-sponsored push to get locals to do their Christmas shopping locally. If Sunday was any indication, the effort was off to a good start.

“It’s very good,” said Barbara McDonald, an employee at Shoogz on the Avenue.

Shoogz is one of several boutiques inside the Olive Branch suite of shops offering everything from clothes to crafts.

Christine Bergeron said she and her family were out to find ideas as well as gifts.

“It’s a day out to enjoy the weather and to support the community,” she said.

If shoppers did not make it out Sunday, there is still time as many of the stores will continue to offer holiday discounts and supplies.

Besides the Lincoln Avenue shops, stores around Groves are also offering specials and discounts, including Dairy Queen.

For a list of all participating retailers, go to the Groves Chamber of Commerce website at www.grovescofc.com.