So much is different about the holidays this year. With dear friends and family far away, gift giving takes on a whole new meaning. Channeling that effort locally is a great way to also support the friends and neighbors who run our local shops and restaurants. That support means so much to them – and they are showing the love right back, by working hard to make shopping local both safe and fun this holiday season.

Concord shops and restaurants have put in place several measures to make shopping and dining safe, fun, and festive this holiday season. Plexiglass barriers, hand sanitizing stations, and new configurations to ensure social distancing give customers space and reassurance.The Town of Concord created a rebate program to help businesses purchase high grade air filters – adding a breath of fresh air to the shopping and dining experience.

“We work hard to keep our customers, and our team, safe and healthy here at the store,” said Jen McGonigle of Joy Street Life + Home. “We also keep the fun factor high – with lots of funny and thoughtful presents, music that makes you tap your feet, and gift options for everyone on your list. For those who prefer to peruse at home, our new website offers an easy shopping experience too!”

A festive and fun atmosphere can be found all around town. Verrill Farm’s “Christmas Nook” and the Colonial Gardens greenhouses offer a haven of holiday greenery and delectable seasonal scents. Revolutionary Concord and The Concord Toy Box are all about sparkle and holiday fun - you can count on seeing owner Marie Foley wearing anything from an elfin headband, to a Santa beard mask, to a full-on princess dress! Nesting features a wonderland of magical holiday décor. Debra’s Natural Gourmet’s window displays and festive sparkle invite you in to discover organic and fair-trade delights. And the West Concord 5&10 may be closing at the end of the year, but until then, they are absolutely “Stocking Stuffer Headquarters” – with everything from penny candy, to finger puppets, to rubber duckies, to gizmos and gadgets that everyone will love this holiday. And those are just a few of the many creative and unusual shops you’ll find around town!

When families are hungry after a day of exploring the town greenery and shopping locally, our delicious restaurants are ready to offer socially distanced dining (also with extra air filtration), as well as curbside pickup, and even some delivery options.

So please shop locally this season. Not only will you find the perfect gift for everyone on your list at our charming and unique shops, you’ll be supporting a friend and neighbor who needs you more than ever. Wondering where to get started? If you haven’t seen our Discover Concord 2020 Guide to Holiday Gift Giving, it’s available in many shops around town, on our website for free, or just scan this QR Code with your mobile device to get started. On behalf of all the shops and restaurants in Concord, thank you – and happy holidays!