6 Keep It Local Holiday Shopping Guide
SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS I GETTING INTO THE SPIRIT
Check for Special Events
C hristmas festivals: There may not be one in your town, but if not, it stands to reason
there's probably one nearby. In November and December, small and mid-size towns
across the country host downtown Christmas festivals, with local stores and organizations
participating to encourage folks to shop and spend some time outside the big box stores.
LOOK FOR DEALS
Most shops offer deals or coupons as part
of a Christmas festival event, and it’s a great
time to get some shopping done while tak
ing advantage of the sales. With so much
foot traffic hitting the area at one time,
shops are usually fighting it out for attention
— which is good news for shoppers. Also
check with the local Chamber of Commerce
to see if there might be a local coupon book
for an event.
MAKE MEMORIES
Along with getting some shopping done,
these festivals often also feature caroling,
Christmas tree decorating contests, and
sometimes even horse-drawn carriage rides.
If the weather cooperates, it can be a great
way to get into the Christmas spirit and have
a fun and affordable night out. Be sure to see
if there’s a schedule available for live music
and events, so you can plan accordingly.
DON'T FORGET DINNER
With shops trying to lure in customers
around holiday events, local restaurants
often get in on the festivities, as well. Some
will have special meals and promotions
around the holiday season, so you might
even be able to change things up with a
Christmas-themed dinner to go along with
all the shopping.
REMEMBER TO EXPLORE
Having everyone out around downtown
means local shops are often putting their best
foots forward, so it’s a great opportunity to try
out some stores or restaurants you’ve never
visited — or perhaps even noticed — before.
Make it a point to visit at least one place
you’ve never been, just to see what you might
be missing.