It’s one of St. Pete’s biggest shopping events, and it’s definitely the earliest. The 50th-Annual Sunrise Sale is back in the Burg on Thursday, July 20, beginning at 6:43 am.

Hosted by the Downtown Business Association, the blockbuster summer sale has been featured in the New York Times and is often referred to as “St. Petersburg’s Largest Pajama Party.” The event was originally created as a way to support local businesses during the slow summer months, and has since grown into a onesie-filled spectacle of sales and showcases.

Beginning at 6:43 a.m. and continuing throughout the day, tons of downtown and EDGE District shops and businesses will open early as they offer doorbuster sales and specials to early shoppers. The annual event sees streets filled at dawn with yellow flags (that’s how you know where to go), bright balloons, and eager shoppers.

Find great deals and big breakfasts at Sunrise Sale

It’s like Black Friday, but on Thursday in the Sunshine City. Shoppers are encouraged to wear their pajamas, and several participating businesses even offer additional specials and giveaways for those dressing for the occasion. And as it comes at breakfast and coffee time, many of the area restaurants will be open for Sunrise Sale specials, as well.

Maps will be provided at participating businesses, and more information on the free annual event can be found here.

This year’s event is bigger than ever, reflecting five decades of support for small, local businesses in St. Pete. Not only are more businesses than ever participating, but the walkable, sale-filled footprint has grown, running from Beach Drive all the way to the edge of the EDGE. In fact, nine EDGE businesses will be participating, and the district will host a special cake cutting after winning the award for best Sunrise Sale strategy.

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