The Innisfail and District Chamber of Commerce has launched the 2014 Santa's Sleigh Christmas promotion with upgrades from last year's campaign.
“I am excited about this year's Santa's Sleigh promotion and I wanted to make some changes that allowed non-retail businesses to be part of the shop local campaign,” said Carla Gabert, manager of the chamber. “We have nine corporate sponsors and 25 participating businesses in Spruce View, Bowden and Innisfail this season.”
The shop local program will start Nov. 25 and run until Dec. 16 when the entries will be entered in draws for the final winners on Dec. 17.
“Like last year, customers will have their ‘I Shop Local' cards stamped by participating businesses with $4 to $5 spots and $8 to $10 spots,” said Gabert. “Each merchant will draw one card per week for a prize, giving shoppers more than 80 opportunities to win. On Dec. 17, prizes of $50 and $100 chamber dollars will be awarded to those whose ‘I Shop Local' card is drawn.”
The manager noted they want to increase the number of winners over last year, generating happier customers.
“Participating businesses will display their Santa's Sleigh signs so customers will know who is part of the campaign,” said Gabert. “There is also a colouring contest tied into the promotion, so children can get involved with the final Christmas event being Innisfail's Hometown Christmas to be held on December 18. Downtown businesses will be open late for shopping and Santa Claus and Christmas carolling will fill the streets with yuletide joy.”
In addition to the chamber of commerce promotion, the Town of Innisfail will be “Lighting Up Innisfail” on Dec. 4 at 6:15 p.m. at downtown's Bankers Corner, complete with goodies from Nummies By Mummies with music provided by Tom Lindl.
“Laura Gillespie and her team put together some amazing decorations around town and we want to highlight that,” said Surina Carloni, the town's marketing and social media coordinator.
The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will be passing through town on Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. at the railway crossing at 50 Street and Highway 54. Innisfailians are invited to bring food or cash donations to help CP make a difference this Christmas to needy families.
The Innisfail Aquatic Centre will be hosting a Christmas program for children aged three and over on Saturdays, from December 6 to 20. The program will also be held Sunday, Dec. 7, and on Monday, Dec. 22 and Tuesday, Dec. 23. Games, crafts and swimming will be available for all participants. Contact the pool at 403-227-2924 for more information.
