Shoppers at Lowes Foods in Clemmons found a special holiday item between the deli and seafood sections last Saturday afternoon.

American Idol winner Scotty McCreery.

In contrast to the cold and heavy downpour outside, fans of all ages were greeted by the warm and welcoming presence of McCreery — a season 10 Idol winner and former Lowes Foods employee who hails from Garner, N.C.

People started camping out in front of the newly-renovated Lowes Foods on Friday night. More joined them during the day on Saturday, huddling together in a large white event tent located in the corner of the Lowes parking lot. Most were there to get his Christmas CD signed, but a few creative souls brought other items for him to sign as well. Two girls brought their cowboy boots and another brought her guitar to the two-hour signing party.

The West Forsyth choral group also got in on the excitement. In addition to a personal meet-and-greet with the country music star, they were also given the chance to join him in singing a Christmas carol.

“The Lowes Foods marketing department called and asked if we could get about 10 students from the choral department to come and do a meet and greet with Scotty and then go caroling with him,” said Darlene Burris, West Forsyth coordinator for the event. “We were glad to accept.”

While the rain put a damper on the possibility of outdoor caroling, the choral group did get to sing “Let It Snow” with Scotty for all of his fans and customers at the grocery store.

West sophomore Katie Lyall said she was so happy to have gotten the chance to participate in such a fun afternoon.

“Scotty was so down to earth and sweet. It was really exciting,” she mentioned.

Along with the meet and greet, the West choral group enjoyed eating with Scotty as well.

“He was a really nice guy,” added William Hinson. “He was taking everyone’s order for food just like one of us.”

McCreery’s mom, Judy, was also on hand. Asked about the long line of fans — many of whom were frenzied young females — she laughed and said “This is great. Lowes has done a terrific job with this event. Scotty is having a good time.’

Judging from the smiles of his fans, he wasn’t alone.