Sanibel's Sunrise Sale draws shoppers in pajamas to 45+ local stores

SANIBEL, Fla. (WINK) — Dozens of Sanibel businesses opened early Saturday morning for a Black Friday-like shopping experience.

The Sanibel Island Sunrise Sale kicked off at 7:09 a.m. with more than 45 locally owned businesses taking part across the island. Shoppers were encouraged to wear their pajamas and take advantage of early-bird specials.

"I'm only getting up this early once a year," said Josh Stewart, Adventures in Paradise Outfitters owner.

The early wake-up seemed well worth it for store owners as dozens of shoppers lined up, ready for the doors to open at sunrise. 

“It kind of builds like a sense of camaraderie because you get everybody comes out, you get up bright and early. I mean, not everybody's going to get up, but they're all wearing their PJs. They got the curlers in their hair,” Stewart said.

Many took "shop till you drop" seriously, visiting dozens of shops across Sanibel. Shoppers could bring their Sunrise Sale passport with them, which sends them around the island to collect stamps at different stores.

Once they receive 10 stamps, they can enter for a chance to win one of three Sanibel vacation prize packages. The event is about more than just shopping, it helps support local businesses.

"We love supporting local communities. We love shopping small, and it's just amazing," said Ina Weissblatt, a Sanibel Island neighbor. "Where else can you shop in your pajamas and have mimosas? By what time is it now? Is it even like eight? Yeah. Yeah. So it's fun. We got some great deals. The girls love it, and we love supporting our friends."

The event also had something for younger shoppers.

"It's a really fun way to spend your weekends, and there's some really nice stuff here, and it's just really fun to come here and just have a great time," said Penelople Weissblatt, a Sanibel Island neighbor.

The sales ran until 5:00 p.m. Saturday, with local businesses remaining open throughout the Labor Day weekend.