How To Support Local Businesses Over The Holidays

A text-based photo on a white background. Text reads in blue font "How to support local businesses over the holidays" and the Taste of Nova Scotia logo is displayed below the text.

Though supporting local businesses is important year-round, the holidays are a particularly meaningful time to do so. Whether it’s showing some love on social media, giving a gift card, or incorporating local products into your holiday gatherings, there are SO many ways to show love to your favourites!

We’ve compiled a few of our favourite ways to support local businesses below. Even a small act can have a significant impact!

A text-based photo on a white background. Text reads in blue font "Show your love for them online. Follow them on social media. Like their posts. Leave a positive comment. Give them a positive review." There is an image of a social media toolbar, which shows icons for a profile (to view a profile), a heart (to like/react to posts), a word bubble (comments) and a star (signifying a positive review)

For many small businesses, social media is a quick and easy way to share news about their business with their customers. The more you engage with their social media, the more visible their pages become to other people! By liking/reacting to their posts, sharing their updates and leaving a positive review, you’re helping to boost their business to other potential customers – all with a few quick clicks. It’s a simple yet meaningful action!A text-based photo on a white background. Text reads in blue font "Enjoy food from local restaurants" and shows an illustration of a bag with a fork and spoon to signify take-out from a restaurant.

Restaurants across the province offer a variety of take out and dine in options. When you support local restaurants, you’re not only supporting those businesses but also the local producers and suppliers they purchase from.

A text-based photo on a white background. Text reads in blue font "Gift Certificates" and shows an illustration of a gift card below the text.

Purchasing gift certificates from local businesses is not only a great gift idea, but an excellent way to help support small businesses!

A text-based photo on a white background. Text reads in blue font "Look for local products at the grocery store" and shows an illustration of a magnifying glass. The entire Taste of Nova Scotia logo is visible through the lens of the glass.

The shelves of your local grocery stores are full of Nova Scotia grown, harvested and produced food and beverage for your holiday dinner. From local produce to poultry, even seasoning and spices, there are so many opportunities to incorporate local into your meals this season.

A text-based photo on a white background. Text reads in blue font "Shop at farmers' markets & indepdendent retailers" and shows an illustration of a bag below the text. The bag has an icon showing an illustration of a heart and two hands holding it.

Farmers’ markets and independent retailers are a great way to support our local farmers, fishers, artisans and producers! To find a farmers’ market near you, check out this map from Farmers’ Markets of Nova Scotia.

A text-based photo on a white background. Text reads in blue font "Enjoy local beverages" and has an illustration of two wine glasses about to cheers each other.

Nova Scotia has a vibrant craft beverage industry, including wine, beer, cider, spirits and mead. Order directly from local producers via their online stores or in-person shopping, and look for local options where you shop.

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