Small Business Saturday is a national celebration of the locally-owned businesses that make our communities and our region what it is!  Please consider shopping locally as much as you can this holiday season.   The Local Multiplier Effect (LME) refers to how many times dollars are recirculated within the local economy.   A century ago, the LME was estimated to be in the 20s or 30s in thriving communities.  This is significantly reduced in today’s economic climate.  The consumer decision to purchase locally – when possible – can result in dollar turnover six, seven, or eight times.  This can improve the economic vitality of our region.  Come out and enjoy these fun holiday events!

Saguache hosts a December 3rd holiday bazaar that includes homemade fudge, craft-making, vendors, visits with Santa, the tree lighting, and live theatre or come enjoy a Winterfest Celebration (including a Chocolate Party!) November 25th and 26th in Crestone.  More information can be found at www.saguachechamber.org

Monte Vista has a Holiday Bazaar December 1st and 2nd at the Church of the Nazarene Gymnasium.  There is a parade of lights on December 2nd around 6 pm followed by fireworks at the High School.  Merchants throughout the city of Monte Vista are having holiday specials and offer unique items for everyone on your list. Check out www.montevistachamber.org

Del Norte hosts a 6 p.m. December 1st Parade of Lights with floats, fireworks, merchant open houses, and a visit from Santa.  More information can be found at www.delnortechamber.org

South Fork hosts a Yuletide Celebration on Friday, November 24th so enjoy the bonfire, hot chocolate, and snacks as we light up the Holiday season. Santa will be discussing wish list from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm.  There will also be a Winterfest on December 8th.  More information at www.southfork.org

Enjoy Creede’s  28th annual Chocolate Festival and Scoop Chase and Black Friday Shopping.  You will also find Mr. and Mrs. Claus throughout town for this two-day event (November 24th and November 25th).  More information at www.creede.com

Lake City hosts a town-wide “missing mistletoe” scavenger hunt with prizes and an annual Christmas in Lake City with a fruit cake toss, tree lighting and performances on December 9th.  Treats and specials are found throughout local businesses.  The full calendar of events for the month of December can be found at www.lakecitydirt.com

Alamosa is having the first annual Round-up Rudolph Run and hosts a Christmas Light Parade on December 23rd. More information can be found at www.alamosa.org