Spirit of Athens Executive Director Melanie Newton, left, presents the Cider Cup to Taylor Fisher, whose father Matthew Fisher and grandmother Rhonda Fisher own Wildwood Deli. The business received the most votes during the 2016 Sippin' Cider event.

Wildwood Deli in downtown Athens was awarded the coveted Cider Cup Monday, two years after last receiving the prize.

More than 350 shoppers cast ballots for their favorite cider during Sippin’ Cider, an annual holiday retail event held Dec. 10 and hosted by Spirit of Athens. The copper mug-topped trophy comes with bragging rights for another year.

“We will have it on prominent display,” said Wildwood Deli owner Rhonda Fisher of the trophy.

During Sippin’ Cider, merchants allow shoppers to sample cider and vote for their favorite. SOA Executive Director Melanie Newton said the voting was close with Snapdragon Kids, Pimentos and The Right Dress Boutique finishing second, third and fourth.

Each ballot asks for an address, since there is a drawing for a door prize. Newton said ballots submitted showed shoppers were not only from Athens, but also from Madison, Decatur and Tennessee.

Another event that drew visitors from surrounding areas was Christmas Open House held in late November. That event was hosted by the Greater Limestone County Chamber of Commerce and Spirit of Athens. This year’s theme was “Winter Wonderland,” and downtown merchants decorated their storefront windows in various winter themes from swans to ice skating.

The first-place winner was Garnet’s, which claimed the title for the third year in a row. Second place was awarded to Snapdragon Kids, while Trinity’s won third place.

“The storefront windows are a joy to see each year,” said SOA Promotions Committee member Holly Hollman. “When the merchants start decorating for the holidays, and the courthouse grounds are decorated, it feels like Christmas in Athens.”