It’s rare to find businesses open Sunday in downtown Athens, but a new promotion could change that trend.

This Sunday, restaurants and a handful of businesses will test the waters by opening their doors from noon to 4 p.m. The “Second Sundays” promotion will run through August.

Tere Richardson, director of Athens Main Street, said up until now, only restaurants had been open on Sundays. On a lark, Boneyard Antiques recently opened its doors to customers on a Sunday and enjoyed one of its best sales days.

“That’s how that conversation started with the other businesses,” Richardson said.

She explained there are a lot of benefits for both businesses and shoppers on Sunday, including a more relaxed atmosphere. She said the hustle and bustle of the Limestone County Courthouse and delivery trucks aren’t a factor, and visitors can actually hear the music emanating from speakers around The Square.

“A stroll around The Square, some shopping and a great meal is a perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon,” she said.

Restaurants set to be open include Kreme Delite, Village Pizza, Terranova’s and Wildwood Deli, which will offer a brunch menu of pancakes, steak and eggs, bacon, sausage, hashbrown casserole and other selections from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“We are super excited about our Sizzlin’ Summer Sunday menu,” said Rhonda Fisher of Wildwood Deli.

Those looking for a sweet treat after lunch are invited to head to High Cotton Arts on Washington Street for an ice cream social from 1 to 4 p.m. Free crafts will be available for kids and adults and entertainment will be provided by Southern Splendor Barbershop Chorus.

Other participating businesses include:

• Belles and Beaus;

• Crawford’s Gifts;

• Pimento’s; and

• Boneyard Antiques.