Downtown Kalamazoo is gearing up for the holiday season with a city‑wide “Find the Holidays Downtown” campaign. Starting now and running through Dec. 31, residents and visitors can explore a brand‑new digital holiday hub on the city’s website. The hub features a curated gift guide with direct links to local merchants, a customizable itinerary tool for planning specific shopping days, and the ability to use “Downtown Dollars” toward purchases at participating stores.
Free Downtown Dollars for Shoppers
On Saturday, Nov. 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., downtown ambassadors will distribute 250 free envelopes containing Downtown Dollars. These vouchers are intended to encourage holiday shopping at independent businesses and keep money circulating within the community.
Holiday Events Schedule
The campaign is anchored by several festive events. The city’s Holiday Parade is set for Nov. 21, showcasing local bands, floats and community groups. A tree‑lighting ceremony will take place at Bronson Park on Nov. 27, followed by the launch of Santa’s Workshop and the Holly Jolly Trolley on Nov. 28, offering family‑friendly activities throughout the season.
Meghan Behymer, Downtown Coordinator for Kalamazoo, told the FOX 17 Morning Mix that the initiative aims to highlight the unique offerings of downtown merchants while providing a convenient, digital way for shoppers to plan and save. “We want families to experience the joy of holiday shopping right here in our own community,” Behymer said.
How to Participate
To join the campaign, visitors should visit the city’s holiday hub website, browse the gift guide, and select an itinerary that fits their schedule. When shopping downtown, they can present their Downtown Dollars at participating retailers to receive discounts or special offers. The free envelopes on Nov. 28 are available on a first‑come, first‑served basis, so early arrival is encouraged.
In addition to the parade and tree lighting, downtown businesses will host seasonal promotions, live music, and holiday décor displays, creating a vibrant atmosphere for shoppers and families alike.
Supporting Local Economy and Community
By directing holiday spending toward local shops, the “Find the Holidays” campaign supports Kalamazoo’s small‑business ecosystem and reinforces the city’s commitment to a thriving downtown core. The initiative reflects the community’s shared values of family, faith, and individual liberty, offering a safe, family‑friendly environment for holiday celebrations.
Follow the FOX 17 Morning Mix on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for updates on event times, special offers and additional holiday activities throughout downtown Kalamazoo.
Original reporting: FOX 17 WXMI Grand Rapids (local) — read the source article.
