Shop Online. Shop Safe. Shop Edmonton.

With recent provincial announcements restricting business operations over the next few weeks, you might be wondering…how can I still support the local businesses that I know and love? This is usually a time of year when shops are hustling and bustling with opportunities to try, test, taste, and smell this year’s best gifts. But don’t worry, the shops may not be as bustling as we’re used to, but they are definitely still hustling! Here’s what you can do:

Stay home

As much as we LOVE having you in the district, if you feel under the weather for any reason, please stay home and take care of yourself. There are lots of different ways you can still show your support for the Whyte Avenue district.

Stake out a takeout

It can be stressful trying to figure where you can safely enjoy a meal with your family or cohort. But there’s really nothing like the cozy comforts of your own home (not to mention pajamas)! So take some time to stake out your next takeout order instead! Our restaurants and cafes are happy to serve you via a variety of delivery or pick up options. Consider phoning the restaurant directly and “skip” the usual apps. This helps keep more money in the local economy and directly supports your favorite local eats!

Shopping, but it’s free

Help US spend some money at our local shops simply by sharing your #WhyteWishes with us on social media. We’re granting a wish every day until December 15 and winners will be gifted their original wish! Check out the contest details here. It’s just like shopping, except we’ll be buying the gift FOR you!

Wait for delivery, but not too long

More and more of us are getting used to shopping online, and that won’t be changing anytime soon. But there are other benefits to supporting local over big box stores. Shipping times have been hugely impacted due to the pandemic, and on top of that we can expect the usual holiday delays. When you purchase from a local business, your package simply doesn’t have as far to travel, and you can take comfort in knowing it will arrive as soon as possible. Many of our shops also offer “buy online & pickup in-store” options! This limits your contact AND gives you an opportunity to take a stroll and enjoy our twinkling lights of the season!

Like, follow, comment, review, subscribe

If you’re not already following your favourite spots on social media, what are you waiting for?! Engage with their content, tag friends, and leave reviews when you love a product or had a great experience. These actions help bring more engagement to their pages, and ultimately helps new customers find them!

Whether you shop online or pay the area a visit, please continue to shop and eat locally. Businesses are ready to serve you in old ways and new ways, with the health and safety of our entire community top of mind!

Make sure you’re following us on social media, @oldstrathcona for gift ideas, promotions, and giveaways! & Check out our curated list of participating Winter Whyte Shop Hop retailers & cafes for exclusive deals!

Please check ahead to see if the stores or restaurants you plan to visit have altered their operating hours!

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