Shop Local, Win Big: How $25 Days of Christmas Boosts Our Community

For over 16 years, the Wilmington-Clinton County Chamber of Commerce’s “$25 Days of Christmas” campaign has helped to make the holiday season more rewarding for Clinton County businesses and patrons. As part of the campaign, the opportunity to turn every purchase into the potential to win big while supporting local businesses has significantly impacted the community. This program is a powerful example of how shopping locally keeps our community vibrant and thriving.

Making Every Dollar Count

Starting on Black Friday and running to December 19th, every time someone spent $25 at one of the 39 participating businesses, they earned a chance to win cash prizes and locally donated gifts. There were about $2,000 in prizes up for grabs—including two $500 cash prizes and 56 amazing gifts from local businesses—it’s no wonder this program has become a holiday staple!

But the real magic happens behind the scenes. This year, there were 5,025 entries, representing at least $125,625 spent locally and generating over $211,050 in total economic activity. That’s money reinvested into the community—helping businesses succeed, creating jobs, and putting more money back into the Wilmington-Clinton County economy.

Why Shopping Local Matters

When you shop at a local store instead of an online retailer or shop outside the area, you invest directly in your community. Studies show that for every $100 spent at a locally owned business, approximately $73 stays within the community, compared to just $43 when shopping at national chains. The money spent in the community gets reinvested in other businesses, fueling everything from job creation to improving local services. 

Programs like $25 Days of Christmas also showcase the unique shops and businesses that make Wilmington and Clinton County special. From the charming Lumberton General Store, The Banned Book Nook and Other Curiosities to the Wilmington Yoga Collective, these businesses make our community feel like home.

Building Community Spirit

While the primary goal of the $25 Days of Christmas is to increase holiday shopping in Wilmington and Clinton County, creating connections is just as important. Weekly live drawings at participating businesses bring people together, turning shopping into a community event. Local businesses donate prizes and encourage shoppers to explore new places.

And it’s not just for locals. By promoting the campaign regionally, $25 Days of Christmas draws visitors to Wilmington and Clinton County. These shoppers come for the prizes but stay for the welcoming atmosphere, great dining, and unique finds—boosting tourism and giving our community more reasons to shine.

A Tradition Worth Celebrating

Whether you were hunting for the perfect gift, looking to support your neighbors, or hoping to win a little extra cash, the $25 Days of Christmas had something for everyone. It’s a holiday tradition that reminds us all why shopping locally isn’t just good for business—it’s good for our community.

So, mark your calendars for next year. Your $25 could turn into $500—or even better, it could help keep Wilmington and Clinton County growing and thriving. Now that’s a win-win!

Clinton County Port Authority

For businesses seeking growth and new opportunities, the Clinton County Port Authority is the first stop, offering support for expansion into Clinton County or local business development. Clinton County, Ohio, located at the heart of major transportation corridors, provides an ideal location for industries ranging from transportation and logistics to aerospace and manufacturing. With easy interstate access, the Wilmington Air Park, and a skilled talent pool nearby, Clinton County fosters a thriving environment where industries like agriculture, manufacturing, and aeronautics interact and excel.

Clinton County and the Clinton County Port Authority are here to help your local business grow to meet the needs of residents. Please contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you!