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December 2020

#ShopInDurham this holiday season
Join Durham Tourism and the Durham Region Joint Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade, BIA's and Municipalities to celebrate #ShopInDurham Week from December 14 to 20. We have a special request for residents this holiday season: shop local.

The goal of the campaign is to spread the message that buying local will have a big impact for small businesses, while encouraging residents to shop local for their holiday gift-giving.

Shoppers can help spread the message of support by using #ShopInDurham when sharing their holiday finds on social media; this is an opportunity for consumers to participate in the campaign and enter to win local products and services from Durham-based businesses.

Follow @DurhamTourism on TwitterFacebook and Instagram, and use #ShopInDurham for your chance to win one of eight grand prizes—including gift cards to businesses, restaurants and accommodations across the region, and free opportunities to safely explore some of the amazing experiences Durham has to offer. Giveaway details will be posted on Durham Tourism’s social media accounts.

To learn more about the campaign and how you can support local, visit ShopInDurham.ca.

For a list of local businesses in Durham Region, visit DurhamTourism.ca. To find “main street” shops, restaurants and virtual services, visit DowntownsOfDurham.ca.
A trail of brilliant lights, festive windows,
and a wave from Santa!
The Uxbridge Holiday Trail is a safe and festive journey through the Uxbridge Optimist Fantasy of Lights and the downtown holiday shopping area. The Fantasy of Lights is a long established driving tour being held daily (6 to 9:30 p.m.) from December 5 to January 2 in Elgin Park featuring holiday light displays installed by local businesses, organizations, and individual families. This year, the downtown shops are joining in on the festivities with their windows decked out with holiday themes such as “The Nutcracker comes to Life” presented by the Bridge Social and Blue Heron Books, Santa’s Workshop presented by the Lemonade Stand, and a wave through the window from Mr. and Mrs. Claus themselves hosted by H. Bee Architecture. 

Drive or stroll along Brock Street to browse the beautiful scenes, pick-up unique gifts, and snap a selfie in front of the spectacular Santa’s Sleigh and Snowflake display presented by Rutledge Jewellers. With the white lit trees, the chime of the clock tower and the sounds of the season along the way, a journey through downtown Uxbridge it is a safe way to enjoy some festive family time. The shops are also offering online shopping, so it is a great way to shop ahead and then coordinate your curb-side pick-up on your way through.

To fuel up along the journey, the food establishments along the Culinary Trail offer a full selection of hot beverages, snacks, and meals to go. 
Celebrate the season in Durham Region!
Although our favourite holiday events will look a little different this year, Durham’s organizing committees have been hard at work to make sure we can safely and virtually celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!
 
Check out the Durham Tourism Blog for a list of what’s happening across Durham Region this holiday season.
Durham Tourism launches modern, exciting and vibrant new brand
Durham Tourism is excited to announce the launch of a new brand that celebrates our unique blend of urban excitement and country charm; the heart of our brand. Although 2020 has looked a little different, Durham Region—in a typical year—is a place where you can spend your afternoon on a scenic country drive, visiting a farm or boutique. That same evening, you can head to one of Durham’s downtowns to dine at an urban bistro offering a farm to fork menu.
 
The new logo shape is made of the letters D and T, as well as a map to create a single shape. Your mind may start to visualize an arrow, symbolizing exploration—or a map, which is a nod to tourism.
 
As part of the new brand, Durham Tourism is developing icons to represent the array of distinct communities throughout the region, each with their own value propositions and key features. These icons will be featured on merchandise, including t-shirts and hats that will be available for purchase on the Durham Tourism E-commerce Marketplace, launching in early 2021.
Holiday happenings with Theatre on the Ridge!
On December 19 and 20, Theatre on the Ridge’s live production of Norm Foster’s The Christmas Tree returns outdoors to the Scugog Arts Space with Frances Loiselle and Michael Williamson. Only 40 minutes long, with hot beverages and warm blankets available, this delightful story is filled with laughs, heartache and good old-fashioned Christmas spirit—the perfect break from the bustle of holiday preparations and shopping in downtown Port Perry.
 
COVID-19 protocols will be in place in accordance with current health regulations and guidelines.
 
Space and quantities are limited so purchase early!
The votes are in!
Toronto Star Readers' Choice Awards 2020
Each year, the Toronto Star hosts an online Readers’ Choice recognition program where people can nominate their favourite businesses and/or professionals from their community. This year, 11 Durham Region businesses received Readers’ Choice accolades spanning eight categories.
 
Congratulations to all for this well-deserved recognition!
 
Diamond
Orono Antique Market, Best Antique
MacMillan Orchards, Best Orchard/Fruit Picking
 
Platinum
Lucy Maud Montgomery House, Best Museum
Forsythe Farm, Best Orchard/Fruit Picking
Casino Ajax, Best Casino/Slots
 
Gold
Deer Creek Golf & Country Club, Best Golf Course & Best Banquet Facility
Wooden Sticks, Best Golf Course
Dagmar Ski Resort, Best Ski Resort
Lakeridge Ski Resort, Best Ski Resort
Great Blue Heron Casino, Best Casino/Slots
Pickering Playing Fields, Best Mini Putt
For unique trip ideas or to plan your perfect day, visit DurhamTourism.ca, or call 1-800-413-0017. If this information is required in an accessible format, contact Durham Tourism.