Females are well-known for doing things together.

     Wherever you go, look around and you’ll usually see two or more females clustered together doing whatever it is that women like to do. It all starts in daycare and kindergarten when we start forming our lifelong friendships.

     Most women are naturally caring, and we get together from time to time to encourage one another and cheer each other on. Females are also good at fostering and keeping relationships. That’s why a lot of times you’ll see female friends who have been friends since they can remember.

     This coming Thursday you’re going to see a lot of females gathering in downtown, up and down Brookway Boulevard and Highway 51. If you’re wondering why, it’s because of Girls’ Night Out. The other reason is because females are natural hunter-gatherers, hence the reason we love to shop and collect such items as shoes and purses.

     The Brookhaven-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce is again sponsoring this special night just for us girls. No guys allowed.

     Thirty-six retailers in the area are all going to stay open a little later than normal, from 4 to 10 p.m., to allow those of the female persuasion to go out and do what we do best – shop.

     Last year, I, along with my daughter Liana and daughter-in-law Mica, took advantage of the shopping opportunity. We had a blast even though the shopping adventure was only from 4 to 8 p.m.

     In addition to expanded shopping hours this year, the number of participating stores has increased from 24 to 36.

     After seeing the special flyer in today’s newspaper with most of the specials published, I’m already formulating a plan of action. I’ll have my walking shoes on and my credit card in hand. I’ll be ready for a full-blown assault.

     I’m sure the retailers are also in full combat gear. I’ve heard that several of them had their best sales day ever during Girls’ Night Out last year.

     One particular shoe store had a line weaving throughout the store during last year’s event. This year they’re adding an additional register, I’m told.

     I even overheard one retailer say that this day might rival Black Friday as the best retail sales day of the year.

     Last year organizers were hoping for at least 350 or so people. They ended up with more than 750. This year they’re hoping that number is even larger; I believe it will be.

     There are only a few days left to get your tickets, which are $15 in advance. They are available at all 36 of the participating retailers. You can also buy tickets the night of the event, but be prepared to pay $20.

     Besides getting in on special deals, the ticket also entitles you to a box lunch from Broma’s Deli and a specially designed T-shirt, which will commemorate your Girls’ Night Out adventure.

     Organizers have worked super hard getting all of the details worked out for Thursday. One retailer is having special music, some are having additional food, others are having giveaways and drawings.

     To end the night, Dave Pace, Kevin Laird and Linda Rogers at Brookhaven Monument are inviting everyone to come out to their place on North Highway 51 to have ice cream.

     Kevin told me it was quite a sight last year to see folks sitting around on headstones eating ice cream and chatting about their Girls’ Night finds. I’m hoping Kevin’s mother-in-law will make another delicious strawberry cake to go with the ice cream, like she did last year.

     I’m looking forward to spending a little “girl-time” with my female family members and also to finding a few good deals! See you at Girls’ Night Out!

     And how was your week?

     Lifestyles Editor Tammie Brewer can be reached at The DAILY LEADER at (601) 833-6961 ext. 134, by e-mail at tbrewer@dailyleader.com or you can write to her at P.O. Box 551, Brookhaven MS 39602.