CHAMBER’S ‘SHOP ISLAMORADA’ KICKS OFF THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Shop Islamorada stores and visit the various holiday displays in the village this season. 

The pandemic brought challenges to small businesses this year, and the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce would like to encourage everyone to do their shopping in the village during the holidays. Known as Shop Islamorada for the Holidays, some 30 local shops have agreed to extend their shopping hours on the first four Tuesdays of December until at least 6:30 p.m. 

Shops will distribute tickets that people must take to all of the participating boutiques and stores for verification. 

Once someone has their list completed from every store, the ticket can be dropped off at one of the shops or at the Chamber office, 87100 Overseas Highway. A drawing will be held each week for three lucky winners.  

The first-place prize, sponsored by Centennial Bank, will be a $125 shopping spree at any of the participating shops. Second-place winner receives a bundle of gift certificates valued at $75, and the third-place winner will receive gift certificates for $50. Shoppers are only allowed to win once. At the end of the promotion a grand prize will be awarded with a bundle of gift certificates.

The promotion “is definitely the right thing to do this year,” said Judy Hull, executive director for the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce. “I believe shoppers will be thrilled with the unique and wide array of gifts they will find in our local shops and galleries. Couple that with shopping in small businesses where you will receive personal attention from the owner who cares about your needs. It is a win-win.”

For a list of participating shops visit the Chamber’s Facebook page, or stop by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce. Be sure to download the app Ride Freebee and call for a free ride making your shopping trip hassle free.  

In addition to shopping, the chamber is promoting a “Merry and Bright Holiday Lights Tour” for couples and families to enjoy at their leisure and in the safety of their vehicles. Driving tour details will be announced early in December. The popular 35-foot holiday tree, which is best known for blowing snow from its branches at the annual Holiday Festival, is being assembled along U.S. 1 for all to see starting Saturday, Dec. 5.  

Local artists have been busy for the past month creating original holiday ornaments. These hand-crafted gems will be available for online auction beginning Friday, Dec. 4 with the auction closing on Sunday, Dec 13, at 3 p.m.