The holiday season has arrived in Downtown Colorado Springs, and few places capture the magic of winter quite like the city center. Bundle up and follow the glimmer of twinkling lights reflecting on shop windows, where every block feels like a snow globe come to life. With more than 85 boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops, Downtown is the perfect destination to discover gifts of every kind: from cozy sweaters and handcrafted jewelry to clever toys, original art, and stocking stuffers you won’t find anywhere else. Still need the coveted Downtown Holiday Coupon Book? Pick it up at one of the businesses listed here.
What makes shopping Downtown especially meaningful is that more than 90% of the businesses are locally owned. The products in the shops are created and curated by the people who live here — your neighbors, friends, and community members. It’s not uncommon to walk through the door and be greeted by name. And shopping local truly makes a difference: for every $100 spent locally, about $70 stays in the community, helping support jobs, schools, public safety, and local infrastructure.
Holiday shoppers also have a chance to win big this season. Now through Dec. 14, every $50 spent at Downtown retailers can be entered into the Shop Local, Win Local campaign. Submit receipts at DowntownCS.com/SLWL for a chance to win weekly gift baskets featuring $100 in Downtown products and a $150 Downtown Colorado Springs Gift Card, redeemable at more than 150 participating businesses. One lucky shopper will also take home the Grand Prize, a $1,000 Visa Card sponsored by Bank of Colorado.
Small Business Saturday, Nov. 29, is an especially prime time to explore local shops. To make the Downtown experience even easier, the City of Colorado Springs is offering free parking at garages, surface lots, and meters from Nov. 27–29. Shoppers can also pick up a limited-edition Small Business Saturday canvas tote at these two member businesses: MST Goods (109 E. Bijou St.) at 9 a.m. and Good Intentions (119 N. Tejon St.) at 11 a.m. (First come, first served; while supplies last; one tote per person, must be present.)
Adding to the atmosphere, carolers from the Soli Deo Gloria Choir and Christmas Brass will perform every Saturday through Christmas from noon to 2 p.m., bringing classic festive cheer to the sidewalks. The carolers will also be out on Christmas Eve from 2-4 p.m. for last-minute shoppers.
Even if you aren’t checking gifts off your list, there are many ways to support local businesses this season:
- Purchase a gift card from a favorite shop, café, restaurant, or salon
- Pick up a Downtown Gift Card, available as both a physical or digital card and redeemable at more than 150 businesses
- Leave positive reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook
- Share and engage with your favorite businesses’ social posts
- Post your own #shoplocal message and tag Downtown businesses
Beyond shopping, Downtown is filled with opportunities to create memorable experiences. Many local businesses offer workshops and activities such as candle and perfume making, art classes, tasting menus, curiosity courses, high tea, and more. A full directory is available at DowntownCS.com/directories to help you explore.
The holiday season also brings a full lineup of signature events, including the Festival of Lights Parade beginning at 5:50 p.m. on Dec. 6, the character stroll from 5-8 p.m. on Dec. 10, Skate in the Park at Acacia Park, and other festive celebrations throughout the month.
And when it’s time to warm up, Downtown offers more than 130 restaurants, coffee shops, dessert spots, and bars perfect for a winter cocktail, a cozy meal, or a sweet treat in between shops.
Make this the year you start a new holiday tradition in Downtown Colorado Springs!
Sponsored by Downtown Colorado Springs
