Welcome to the Fort Collins Business Digest Holiday Shopping Guide! This guide is your essential resource for finding the perfect gifts while championing the local businesses that make Fort Collins unique. By choosing to shop local this holiday season, you’re directly contributing to the vitality and growth of our community while finding unique gifts that friends and loved ones are sure to remember.
Why Shop Local This Holiday Season?
Shopping locally is more than just a transaction; it’s an investment in Fort Collins. Local businesses recirculate a significantly higher percentage of revenue back into the local economy compared to large chains. When you spend money at a neighborhood boutique, a local restaurant, or an independent bookstore, you are supporting local jobs, funding community services, and ensuring our city remains vibrant and diverse.
| Reasons to Shop Local This Season | The Positive Impact on Fort Collins |
|---|---|
| Economic Impact | More money stays in Fort Collins to support other local businesses and jobs. |
| Unique Selection | Find one-of-a-kind gifts that you won’t find at major national retailers. |
| Community Building | Support the business owners and employees who are your neighbors. |
| Sustainability | Local shops often have a smaller carbon footprint than large retailers. |
Featured Local Shopping Districts
Fort Collins is home to a variety of unique shopping areas, each with its own charm and specialty.
1. Old Town Square
The heart of Fort Collins, Old Town is home to a dense collection of independent boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. It’s the perfect place for a festive stroll under the holiday lights.
- Retail Focus: Clothing, art, gifts, books, and gourmet food.
- Must-Visit: Independent book sellers like Old Firehouse Books, or the unique jewelry shops, including Darvier Jewelry Design Studio for something you won’t find anywhere else.
2. Jessup Farm Artisan Village
This historic farm turned retail village offers a curated collection of businesses, focusing on quality, craftsmanship, and local sourcing.
- Retail Focus: Home goods, artisanal foods, craft beverages, and handcrafted items.
- Unique Offering: Experiential gifts, like a coffee tasting or a cooking class.
3. Midtown and South Fort Collins
This area offers a blend of established local businesses, larger anchor stores, and specialty services, making it a convenient stop for a wide range of needs. Foothills mall anchors the district, surrounded by restaurants, retail and the Cinemark Movie Bistro. Visit with Santa, shop the Winter Farmers Market, or catch a movie.
- Retail Focus: Outdoor gear, furniture, and local services.
- Tip: Look for businesses hosting special holiday markets and events.
Shops for Every Person on Your List
Find inspiration with these local retailers and service providers.
| Your “Target” | Gift Idea | Local Business |
|---|---|---|
| The “Foodie” | Locally roasted coffee or a gourmet spice collection | The Cupboard offers kitchen and gourmet accessories for your favorite home chef. |
| The Home Decorator | Hand-thrown pottery or a locally made candle | Trimble Court Artisans features works from over 50 local artists. |
| The Outdoors Enthusiast | Hiking gear or accessory from a locally founded outfitter | Tellus is an outdoor gear brand based in Fort Collins. |
| The Experience Lover | Tickets to a local theater performance or a spa day package | Try the unique sensory deprivation float tanks at Samana Float Center |
Fort Collins Business Digest 
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