Sunday rains kept many shoppers at bay during the 27th annual Christmas on Main.

While at times the streets downtown seemed nearly deserted, stores reported strong sales as many ventured into the shops to avoid the downpour.

Harley Norris, owner of Harley's Tuxedo and Gifts and LDRC chairman, was optimistic despite the gloomy weather. He reported strong crowds, noting that many stayed inside the shops because the performances were cancelled and the weather was dreary.

"There was an unbelievable number of people downtown," Norris said. "We know the weather was not the best, but we were happy about the people who, despite the negative weather, came out and made the positive day."

Revenues for his store were good, Norris said.

"Our store did really well," Norris said. "Sales were similar to last year. I had a steady flow of customers from 1 to 5 p.m."

Hi-Lites, a woman's apparel store, also reported strong sales.

"We had a full house almost all day," Hi-Lites Assistant Manager Jennie Mayo said. "I know we probably didn't have as many shoppers as we did last year. The rain kept a lot of people away."

Mayo says the store will have a special shopping day tomorrow to make up for the diminished crowds on Sunday.

Not as many people came out for pictures with Santa as in 2008, according to Chip Morton, owner of CM Studios.

He said the lower turnout was likely caused by the rain and he was still pleased with the numbers that came.

Norris also said the rain didn't dampen sales as much as performances. Only the first of the groups – Step 2 It Dance Studio – had a chance to perform, and their performance was cut short as several dancers slipped on a wet stage.

"I want to apologize to those groups who were here and ready to perform but were unable to due to the weather," Norris said.

Diane Poteat was browsing the inventory of the Plaid Piper with her granddaughter, Emma.

"We've enjoyed looking – we haven't done a whole lot yet. We're just browsing," Poteat said. "We came specifically to get her picture made with Santa because this is the first year that she is really into Santa. Last year she was frightened of him."