’Tis the season of twinkling lights, bright decorations, gift shopping and of course- holiday events! The holidays may look different this year because of the pandemic, but there are still many ways we can bring on the cheer! To help you fill up your calendar for the rest of the month, we’ve compiled a list of just a few things you can do in Downtown Stockton this year. Happy Holidays!

1. Vote in the DSA Holiday Contest

WHEN: Dec.14th – Dec. 17th at noon
WHERE: DSA Facebook and Instagram pages
This year, the DSA is hosting a Holiday Contest to challenge our Downtown Stockton businesses owners to share creative holiday photos featuring their business. Even if you’re not a downtown business owner, get involved by viewing the awesome photos and voting to help your favorite businesses win! To vote, head over to our Facebook and Instagram pages and leave a like on your favorite photos. The voting period begins on Monday, December 14th, and will end on Thursday, December 17th at noon. The photos will definitely have you feeling the spirit of Christmas! 

2. Virtual Visits with Santa

WHEN: Book now! Available dates: Dec.16,19, 22 & 23
WHERE: Anywhere you want!
This year, the Children’s Museum of Stockton is hosting virtual visits with Saint Nicholas himself. Create a magical moment for you and your loved ones with a visit from the North Pole right into your home (no milk and cookies required!). Imagine how excited the kiddos will be to see and interact with the one, the only, Santa Claus right in their living room for a personalized visit. All proceeds will benefit the Children’s Museum of Stockton and Children’s Museum members receive special pricing. End the year with some magic!

3. Gift Shopping

There are two kinds of people: those who get their Christmas shopping done early, and those who scramble for those last-minute gifts! Whichever you are (we fall into the second category), we’re here to give you some ideas. Our local businesses need our support more than ever, and the holidays are the perfect time to shop local to find fun gifts for your friends and family. Walk into the Freckled Moon for unique gifts and trinkets of all kinds or visit FarOut Foliage to pick up a lush plant that can up the aesthetic of any room. Venture into Edible Arrangements to pick out a beautiful (and delicious) arrangement made of your favorite chocolate covered fruits or opt for a more traditional floral arrangement from Alex Floral. Several downtown restaurants, eatieries, and coffee shops, such as The Downtowner and Trail Coffee Roasters also offer gift cards, which can make great stocking stuffers or gifts on their own. Take a look at our complete directory of downtown businesses to plan your gift search and happy shopping!

4. Treat yourself

Anytime is a good time for self care, but its especially nice to treat yourself at the end of a long year- especially this one! Downtown Stockton is full of salons and barbershops, such as Natural Do and The Golden Rose Barbershop, ready to give you a fresh cut or new look for the holidays. If you’re looking for a refreshing skin treatment, head over to The Beauty Base. During the month of December, 20% from all of their sales/appointments will be used to create care packages for the homeless. Enjoy smooth skin and support a good cause. Speaking of skin, why not gift yourself a brand new tattoo for the holidays? We know you’ve been thinking about it. If you’re unsure about a new hairstyle, facial, or new tattoo, just remember these words: treat yo’self. 

5. Indulge in sweets

Add sweet treats to the holiday menu by picking up some scrumptious goods downtown. D’lilah’s Cakery is having their end-of-the-year sale from December 23rd to December 24th from 11am-4:30pm! Don’t miss out on the opportunity to score cupcakes, sweet jars, and cheesecake for some insanely low prices. If you’re looking for some homemade pie to add to the table on Christmas Day, look no further than Trail Coffee Roasters. Choose from sweet potato pie, pear crumble, and mixed berry pie (or get all three) and place your order today. Order by December 17th and pick up at the downtown Trail location on Christmas Eve. Delivery is also available.

Now, we hope you’ve made some new plans for the remainder of December. Thank you for your continued support of our wonderful downtown businesses. We wish you Happy Holidays and look forward to seeing you next year!