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 Enjoy Evanston: Shop Small This Holiday Season
With the holidays coming up, gifts are on everyone’s mind. When you shop small, your dollars stay in the community providing jobs and opportunities for all. Get into the holiday spirit while supporting Evanston’s 10 business districts. Explore this list of holiday events and the Enjoy Evanston calendar.
Free Parking: The City is making local holiday shopping easy this year by offering a “Holiday Parking: Free for 2024” promotion. Community members and visitors to Evanston’s business districts will enjoy up to two hours of free parking daily from November 27 through January 1, 2025.
Users can simply enter the code "Holiday2024" while using the Park Evanston app to access two hours of free street parking. This offer is valid for app users once per day per account.
 Shop the Main-Dempster Mile this season!
The Main-Dempster Mile is full of local, independently-owned small businesses that offer something for everyone's holiday lists! Watch our video with MDM Executive Director, Katherine Gotsick, to hear about some of our holidays favs. Visit maindempstermile.com to learn more about the businesses along the Main-Dempster Mile!
You can also check out enjoyevanston.com for information about Evanston's nine other thriving business districts.
 The Celtic Knot is now open on Central Street
The Celtic Knot is back! Reopening their doors Thursday, Dec. 12, this time at 2022 Central Street, co-owners Liz and Patrick Breslin are once again serving up authenic pub grub along with your favorite drinks. Take a break from your holiday shopping to stop in and grab a pint!
 Church & Dodge Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting
Join in tonight, Fri., Dec. 13, from 5 to 10 p.m., for the Church & Dodge Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting at 1623 Dodge Ave. Celebrate the season with live performances, music, and games. Bring an ornament to decorate the tree or make one at the festival!
 Chicago Ballet Arts Winter Showcase December 21
Join Chicago Ballet Arts on Saturday, December 21 at 4 p.m. at the beautiful McGrath Family Performing Arts Center for their Winter Showcase! This family-friendly event is an opportunity for our students to learn and grow through performance. It features our Junior, Senior, and Adult Ensembles in excerpts from classical ballets and new works created by our Ensemble directors.
Tickets are $16 for ages 5 and up, children under the age of 5 are free. This performance is open seating and has an approximate run time of 1 hour.
See below for upcoming events and start planning your weekends! You can find the full calendar of events on the Enjoy Evanston website.
Downtown Evanston
Central Street
Ashland Arts
Howard Street
West Village
West End
Maple/Foster
Enjoy Evanston
Have a upcoming event?
Help us add to our calendar! We encourage you to submit all your upcoming events through our website.
Please review the following submission guidelines:
- Only public events may be listed
- Cannot be solely retail in nature
- Cannot be solely religious or political in nature
- Cannot be solely fundraisers or networking events
- Should be leisure time or recreational activities
Event eligibility is also evaluated on a case-by-case basis. At this time, we are only able to accept event listings in English.
 Shop Legacy Businesses for the holidays
As the holiday approaches, there’s no better way to embrace the spirit of giving than by supporting local businesses. In Evanston, Illinois, we’re fortunate to have an array of legacy businesses—those that have served our community for over 20 years. These establishments not only offer unique gifts and services but also carry stories and traditions that make Evanston special. This holiday season, let’s show our appreciation by shopping local and celebrating these time-honored institutions.
Virag Jewelers and Cottage Jewelers
For timeless gifts that sparkle, look no further than Virag Jewelers and Cottage Jewelers. These family-run businesses have been helping Evanstonians mark life’s milestones for decades. From custom-designed jewelry to heirloom-quality pieces, their expert craftsmanship and personal service ensure every gift feels meaningful. Whether you’re shopping for a dazzling necklace, elegant cufflinks, or an engagement ring, you’ll find something extraordinary here.
Dave’s Down to Earth Rock Shop
For the rock enthusiasts and collectors in your life, Dave’s Down to Earth Rock Shop is a treasure trove of natural wonders. This beloved store has been enchanting visitors with its extensive collection of fossils, minerals, and gemstones since 1970. With gifts ranging from stunning geodes to unique jewelry, you’ll find nature’s beauty in every corner. Don’t forget to check out the free Fossil and Mineral Museum in the basement for a fascinating trip through time.
The Chicago Newsstand
Do you know someone who loves flipping through magazines or discovering new reads? The Chicago Newsstand has been a haven for periodical enthusiasts since 1986. With an impressive selection of magazines, newspapers, and specialty publications, it’s the perfect spot to find a thoughtful gift for the avid reader or culture buff on your list.
Minasian Rug Company and Oscar Isberian Rugs
Elevate your home for the holidays with a stunning piece from Minasian Rug Company or Oscar Isberian Rugs. Both of these renowned businesses have been providing high-quality, handcrafted rugs for generations. Their expertise ensures you’ll find the perfect rug to add warmth and elegance to your space or as a luxurious gift for someone special.
Bookends & Beginnings
A cornerstone of Evanston’s literary scene, Bookends & Beginnings is an independent bookstore that has been inspiring readers since its inception. Nestled in a cozy alley, this store offers a curated selection of books, including bestsellers, classics, and works by local authors. Personalized recommendations from the knowledgeable staff make shopping here a joy. Plus, their holiday-themed books and gifts are sure to delight book lovers of all ages.
Comix Revolution
For the comic book fan or graphic novel enthusiast in your life, Comix Revolution is a must-visit. This vibrant shop has been a hub for pop culture in Evanston for over two decades. Whether you’re looking for the latest superhero adventures, indie comics, or collectibles, their diverse selection will inspire the geek in everyone.
Guitar Works, LTD
If you’re shopping for a musician or aspiring rock star, Guitar Works, LTD is the place to go. This long-standing music store offers everything from guitars and accessories to expert repairs and lessons. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect instrument or gear to make someone’s musical dreams come true.
Noyes Barber Shop
For over 50 years, Noyes Barber Shop has been a trusted spot for fresh cuts and old-school charm. Treat someone to a classic grooming experience or pick up high-quality grooming products for the dapper gentleman in your life. Supporting this iconic barbershop keeps tradition alive and ensures that a cornerstone of Evanston’s community thrives.
This holiday season, let’s come together to celebrate and support the businesses that have helped shape Evanston’s character. By choosing to shop local, you’re not only finding unique and meaningful gifts but also ensuring that these cherished establishments continue to flourish for generations to come.
Follow Evanston Legacy Business Alliance on Facebook and Instagram.
Happy holidays and happy shopping!
 What do YOU enjoy about Evanston?
With ten unique business districts, there is something for everyone to enjoy! We want to hear about your faves. Tell us about your favorite places for health and fitness, your favorite store or art gallery to explore, or your favorite place to eat! Send us an email about your favorite spots at hello@enjoyevanston.com.
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