Calgary,
06
November
2026
|
10:00
America/Denver

Shop local, share the joy: Mayor highlights 2026 Support Local Holiday campaign in Bowness and Montgomery

As the holiday season approaches, Mayor Jeromy Farkas visited Bowness and Montgomery to kick off the 2026 Support Local Holiday campaign, encouraging Calgarians to shop local and show some love to the businesses that make our neighbourhoods special. Now in its eighth year, the campaign reflects The City’s ongoing commitment to supporting local business community.

“The holidays are about connection, and some of the most meaningful connections happen right in our own neighbourhoods,” said Mayor Jeromy Farkas. “Calgary is built on the hard work, determination and dreams of people who believe in what they do. More than nine in ten businesses in our city are small businesses, and behind them are our neighbours, friends and families who help make Calgary feel like home. This holiday season, let’s show up for them because a little local love goes a long way.”

Throughout 2026, City teams and community partners worked together on initiatives that helped Calgarians explore their neighbourhoods, discover local businesses and enjoy experiences close to home. Highlights include:

  • Bringing fresh, local food closer to home: The Farm Stand Program connected Calgarians with local and regional producers through 29 farm stands operated by seven different farmers at community associations, parks and transit-accessible locations across the city. From May 1 to Oct. 14, the Farm Stand webpage was viewed more than 26,000 times, reflecting strong interest in fresh, seasonal produce and local growers.

  • Making downtown a year-round destination: From summer festivals and lively patios to winter markets and holiday celebrations, downtown Calgary offers plenty of reasons to explore, shop and dine local. The Downtown Summer campaign highlighted festivals, attractions, restaurants and shops, helping residents and visitors discover what Calgary has to offer. International visitor spending increased 15.6 per cent year over year, including a 12.2 per cent rise in overseas visitor spending, contributing to Calgary’s economy. As winter approaches, the Chill Downtown this Winter Campaign will be in market from Nov.16, 2026 to March 31, 2027 and will feature monthly custom itineraries to entice Calgarians and visitors to come downtown during the winter months at www.exploredowntownyyc.com.

  • Bringing culture and connection to winter: Through Calgary’s Winter City Strategy and signature events like New Year’s Eve and Chinook Blast, The City is helping create vibrant winter experiences that bring people together and support local businesses, artists and creators. Making public spaces more welcoming in winter also create economic, social and cultural opportunities while helping Calgary grow as a world-renowned winter destination. Explore winter events, activities and initiatives here.

  • Promoting local businesses with BIAs: The City partners with Calgary’s 15 Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) to support local businesses, share events and help Calgarians discover the energy, creativity and local business spirit of our BIAs. Learn more about upcoming BIA Winter Events across the city.

  • Encouraging local shopping through the Winter Parking Contest: From November 4 to December 22, Calgary Parking’s citywide Winter Parking Contest will encourage Calgarians to discover, celebrate and support local businesses throughout the winter season. Participants can recommend a favourite local business for a chance to win one of seven weekly $150 parking-credit prizes. The campaign will also share practical parking and access information to help Calgarians plan winter outings and explore businesses, destinations and seasonal experiences across the city.

“After eight years of Support Local, the passion and determination of Calgary’s small business owners remain unchanged,” said Erin Chrusch, Leader of The City’s Business & Local Economy team. “We know many businesses continue to face challenges, and that’s why support matters more than ever. By working together with Calgarians, City teams, BIAs and community partners, we’re helping local businesses stay visible, connected and supported throughout the year. Whether it’s a coffee, a gift or a recommendation, even the smallest choices can make a meaningful difference.”

“Mainstreet Bowness is exceptional for holiday shopping because we have more than 60 independent local businesses, with something for everyone, from specialty grocery stores to creative studios and local makers,” said Kellie Freeman, Executive Director of Mainstreet Bowness BIA . “We also have a great small-town vibe, with lots of historic buildings and long-standing businesses. We hope everyone comes out to support local artisans, explore Mainstreet Bowness and enjoy our festive community markets starting with our Holiday craft fair this weekend.”

Jessica Lapuz, Executive Director of the Montgomery BIA added: “Montgomery has great main street charm right on the banks of the Bow River. This winter we’re kicking off the season at Light Up Montgomery on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Montgomery Town Square, and we welcome everyone to eat, shop and enjoy the outdoors with our vibrant mix of more than 115 businesses.”

Calgarians are encouraged to explore their neighbourhoods, discover local shops and restaurants, and keep supporting Calgary businesses into the new year. Learn more about the Support Local campaign at calgary.ca/supportlocal. For tools and resources to support business, visit Business and local economy.