Smile Politely

Champaign Center Partnership is encouraging shopping local this holiday season

There is going to be a lot of temptation this year to make it an Amazon holiday. It’s so easy, it’s so fast, and right now — it’s fast. But shopping local is still possible and safe, and more important than ever if we want to have these places exist on the other side of this pandemic. We will share our more comprehensive guide soon, but here’s a start.

Champaign Center Partnership is promoting the Hometown Holiday Shop and Stroll, with participating businesses in Downtown, Midtown, and Campustown offering all sorts of deals and promotions beginning December 1st. From the Facebook event:

Pick up a map/punch card at any participating business at and go on a self-guided shopping tour throughout December. Covid-19 accommodations are available at all businesses including curbside delivery, web stores, shopping by appointment and over the phone. Visit at least 8 stops and collect 8 punches to enter to win a $100 gift certificate to the participating local business of your choice!

Stay tuned to the Facebook event for information about participating stores, a scavenger hunt, and horse and carriage rides. 

Photo from Champaign Center Partnership Facebook page. 

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