WHAT’S UP DOWNTOWN – Some ideas for the Christmas shopping season

CHRISTMAS has always been a happy celebration in my family.

We were very fortunate and lucky enough to get to celebrate two different traditions. We celebrated our Dutch heritage with the arrival of Sinterklass, who would leave gifts at the front door. My three siblings and I would try every year to catch Sinterklaas and Zwarte Piet leaving the presents, but never managed to catch glimpse.

These times are special because along with the little gifts, chocolate letters and Dutch treats received, we got to spend time with our family. The second holiday tradition we celebrated was Canadian Christmas on the 25^th. As we get older, my family continues to keep our traditions alive, the only difference now is that my siblings and I are also tasked with finding the perfect presents.

We all know the hassle in trying to find the perfect gift for someone and my family is no exception. As we get older, it seems to get harder to find the perfect gift.

The great news is, we have plenty of local shops Downtown that are happy to help brainstorm ideas. From work boots to shiny bling, Downtown has a little bit of everything. One of the many bonuses to shopping in the downtown core is that it’s a great way to support local business and therefore our local economy. Downtown offers an unique shopping experience that you can’t get any where else.

Another reason to shop Downtown this holiday season is the fun promotions that are being offered. We’ve brought back the Christmas Cash Card; every $20 spent at a participating store gets you a stamp, $200 in spending fills your card with stamps and gives you a chance to win amazing prize packages. On top of that, if you spot one of our hidden elves, take a picture for social media using #hiddenelves for a chance to win more prizes. These promotions start Nov. 22, just in time for all of your holiday shopping.

Last but not least, if you’re still stuck on what to get for your secret Santa, I’ll suggest purchasing a Downtown Kamloops Gift Certificate. They come in increments of $10, $20 and $50 and are the perfect gift for that picky person on your list. They can be purchased at our office (#4-231 Victoria Street) and can be redeemed anywhere in the KCBIA area (1^st-10^th, Columbia to the River.) They are the perfect gift for that person who has everything, because you can use them anywhere Downtown, even the dentist!

If you’re like me, and have someone difficult on your list to shop for, hopefully I’ve helped guide you in the right direction. As for Sinterklaas, well, I think I know where he is going shopping.

This article was written by Alexis Proulx, Customer Care and Patrol (CAP) Team Supervisor. Reach them at 250-572-3008/3009 or the Customer Care & Info Centre at 250-572-3017. Email capteam@downtownkamloops.com. Follow on Facebook, Instagram (Downtownkamloops) and Twitter (@downtownkamloops) too.