“‘Twas the month of Christmas, and all through the City,

People were shopping for holiday gifts so pretty!

From Westfield Valencia Town Center to the shops of Main Street,

They bought scarves, and sweaters and lots of sweet treats!”

All those holiday purchases generate millions of dollars that come right back to our community. That is just one of the many bonuses of checking off the names on your holiday buying list right here in Santa Clarita.

By hitting up your neighborhood boutique or favorite local shopping destination, you will save yourself time – and gas money.

Shopping locally also helps keep small businesses open and thriving, which in turn means jobs for your neighbors.

For every dollar you spend in Santa Clarita, the city receives a portion back from sales tax. In 2016, that money added up to $31.7 million. The city puts those funds toward keeping our community safe by funding our Sheriff’s Department, providing free and fun events like the Cowboy Festival and Concerts in the Park, and by building vital infrastructure like roads, bridges, trails and community centers.

Keep these things in mind for your big-ticket items, too. Remember we have one of the best selections of new and used cars right here in Santa Clarita at the Valencia Auto Center.

Another way you can shop locally is to keep your holiday festivities in the city. Thanks to an influx of new businesses, you have many options of where to eat, and sip, for a night out on the town. Our local restaurants offer everything from tasty all-American cuisine and farm-to-table freshness to exotic delicacies and fresh seafood.

For those who are looking to try a bold new wine varietal or sip the latest craft beers, our local hot spots offer them as well. If you are looking to experience arts – cultural and entertainment – head to The MAIN in Old Town Newhall for an evening of music, laughs or theatre. And there are more entertainment options on the horizon as we look forward to the opening of the Laemmle Theatres just up Main Street.

When you shop and spend locally, your hard earned dollars go right back to your community. For a list of all the new businesses in Santa Clarita, and more information on some tried and true favorites, visit EconDev.Santa-Clarita.com.

“So rush to your car, but drive careful as can be,

Find the perfect holiday gifts to put under the tree.

All your loved ones will squeal with delight,

So shop local all season and to all a good night.”

Best Regards,
Ken Striplin