10 Reasons To Shop Local this Holiday Season

It’s Christmastime in Summit County – which means it’s time to start planning your holiday festivities and shop local! Whether you love to window shop in Downtown Frisco or ski the slopes at Copper Mountain, Summit County is the place to spend the holidays! 

Our unique mountain town offers a wide variety of activities, from snowshoeing to ice skating to festive holiday-themed events and more. But beyond the breathtaking scenery lies another magic – the power of supporting our vibrant community through local shopping. 

If you are shopping around for someone special this Christmas, why not choose to buy local? Not only can you find unique gifts that can’t be found anywhere else, but by shopping locally-owned stores and businesses, you are also supporting the people and economy in Summit County.

Here are our top ten reasons why shopping locally this holiday season is the best choice:

1. Shop Local + Invest in Summit County’s Future

Every dollar spent at a Summit County business fuels our local economy, and the impact is undeniable. Studies show small businesses create two out of every three new jobs nationally, and right here in the mountains, they employ over 52% of the workforce. 

By shopping local, you’re not just buying a gift. You’re investing in your neighbors’ futures and building a stronger Summit County for everyone.

2. Buy Small to Unleash Local Prosperity

Money spent locally stays local. Unlike big-box giants, Summit County businesses reinvest $73 out of every $100 back into our community. This means higher salaries for local employees, more tax dollars funding essential services, and a thriving economy that benefits everyone. That’s your dollar going further this holiday season!

3. You’ll Be Giving Forward

Local businesses are champions of giving. They donate 4 times more to local charities for every dollar they earn than national chains. By shopping locally, you’re not just giving a gift; you’re supporting the causes that make our community strong. 

For example, many local Summit County stores give from their holiday profits to many of the region’s most important charities.

4. Find Your Perfect Fit, Unwrap Uniqueness

Forget cookie-cutter gifts! Summit County brims with talented artisans and makers who pour their passion into crafting unique, one-of-a-kind treasures. 

Find a hand-blown glass ornament reflecting our mountain sun, a cozy hat spun from locally sourced wool, or a gourmet food basket overflowing with some of the county’s best dining options! 

5. Get a Warm Welcome, Not Just a Click

Sure, online shopping is fast, easy, and convenient. But one of the best parts of shopping in Summit County is getting to meet the makers who bring our community to life.

Forget faceless customer service reps – at Summit County businesses, you’ll find friendly faces who know their products and our community. They’ll help you choose the perfect gift, offer wrapping tips with a smile, and ensure your loved one feels the warmth of Summit County in every unwrapped treasure.

6. Support Your Neighbors

Small businesses are run by your friends and neighbors — people who live in Summit County and pour their lives into growing vibrant, unique businesses that make our community special.

When you shop local, you’re not just getting great products and services — you’re also supporting the incredible entrepreneurs who call this place home. Your purchase helps them pay rent, keep the lights on, and continue creating amazing things for all of us to enjoy!

7. Shrink Your Footprint When You Buy Local

You may surprised to learn that holiday shopping often comes with environmental costs. Think of all those supply chains, the packaging, and the transport of items worldwide, not to mention the fossil fuels used in production. 

A study from 2018 found that 14% of the USPS 6.2 billion packages were delivered around the holidays – which is alarming when 30% of U.S. greenhouse gases come from delivery vehicles and other transportation methods.

When you shop locally, you’re cutting down on your carbon footprint. You’re supporting local production and production processes that are designed with sustainability in mind — reducing individual waste but also helping to create a healthier environment for everyone. 

8. Discover Hidden Treasures

Venture beyond the familiar and explore Summit County’s hidden gems! Tucked away on charming side streets or nestled in cozy mountain towns, you’ll find unique boutiques, artisan workshops, and family-run shops bursting with character and unexpected delights. 

Local boutiques and specialty shops offer a one-of-a-kind shopping experience and items that you simply won’t find anywhere else. With beautiful handmade crafts, unique clothing finds, and locally sourced goods, exploring Summit County will be an adventure.

9. Savor the Local Flavor

Summit County is home to some incredible dining and culinary experiences. From cozy cafes and family-owned restaurants to fine dining establishments, you’ll find a taste for every palette – plus gift cards to go along with them!

Nothing beats gifting the taste of our mountains, from farm-fresh produce to handcrafted chocolates to locally made spirits and baked goods. Support our farmers, bakers, and culinary artisans, and share the delicious spirit of the season that nurtures our community.

10. Wrap Up Memories, Not Just Purchases

Shopping local isn’t just about transactions; it’s about creating memories. From the snowy downtown streets of Frisco to the Keystone Village, there’s so much to explore and discover. 

As you shop, you’ll find unique gifts, get to meet the makers and spend quality time with family and friends. It’s a great way to make memories while you shop for those you love.

Shop Local in Summit County & Help Us Spread Holiday Cheer

This holiday season, choose Summit County local. Wrap up your gifts in the spirit of community, sustainability, and unique experiences. Let’s celebrate the magic of the mountains, support our neighbors, and build a brighter future together, one gift at a time.

Remember, shopping local isn’t just a trend – it’s an economic and cultural statement. It’s a commitment to our community, our environment, and the magic that makes Summit County so special. Let’s make this holiday season the most impactful one yet, by wrapping up Summit County local!

Check out the Summit County Chamber of Commerce’s local business directory for a comprehensive list of locations ready to spread holiday cheer!