Last-minute Christmas shoppers still have time to get a one-of-a-kind Bogalusa gift, and on Thursday, a group of local business owners are making shopping even easier with a special event.

Aundriea Mitchell, the owner of Cajun Canvas, said she and some of her neighbors are hosting the Columbia Street Christmas Open House once again. Mitchell said this is the third annual event and it’s meant to revive a tradition from several decades ago.

“A long time ago they used to have Late Hours Shopping on the Road, and we wanted to jump start that tradition,” Mitchell said. She said that at one time, Columbia was simply known as the Road, and the idea was to give working people a chance to shop after they got off work.

“To make it convenient,” Mitchell explained. “So they wouldn’t have to go out of town.”

In that tradition, Cajun Canvas, as well as Wild Blu Boutique, Gayle’s Jewelers and Esma’s Antiques, will all be open from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Mitchell said the event has proven popular in years past and typically brings out dozens of shoppers eager for special discounts, door prizes, refreshments and other treats.

“We’re going to be painting ornaments at my shop,” Mitchell said. She added that adults and kids are welcome.

“Come down,” she said. “I’d like to thank everyone for supporting our local businesses.”

Cajun Canvas is located at 425 S. Columbia St. and the other businesses are adjacent.