Celebrate the season, shop local

As the holiday season approaches, Carlsbad is ready to sparkle with joyful cheer. Twinkling lights, festive banners, and charming storefront displays will be popping up across the city, setting the stage for a season filled with joy, creativity, and community spirit. This year, make your holiday shopping more than just a to-do list — turn it into a full-day adventure that celebrates the heart of Carlsbad: its small businesses.

A Village & Community of
Holiday Cheer

Carlsbad Village transforms into a festive wonderland each year, where shoppers can find one-of-a-kind gifts crafted by local artisans. Boutiques offer everything from handmade jewelry and eco-friendly home goods to coastal-inspired fashion. Each purchase supports the independent shop owners, artists, and creators who make Carlsbad unique.

Beyond the Village, Carlsbad’s neighborhood boutiques, maker markets, and family-run stores provide a wealth of one-of-a-kind finds that you won’t discover online or at large retailers. Take the time to explore multiple areas of town, and you’ll find treasures that make your gifts truly special.

Savor the Season at Local Restaurants

After a day of shopping, indulge in Carlsbad’s vibrant culinary scene. Carlsbad’s restaurants are rolling out seasonal menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative twists on classic favorites. Whether it’s a cozy seaside café, one of our Michelin-starred restaurants, a neighborhood bistro, or a sweet stop for handcrafted chocolates and pastries, the city’s culinary scene adds another layer of delight to your holiday outing.

The Power of Shopping Local

Small businesses are the backbone of Carlsbad. Roughly 98% of the city’s businesses are independent establishments that offer personalized service, unique products, and a deep connection to the community. Every dollar spent locally has a ripple effect — supporting jobs, sustaining creativity, and strengthening the local economy. In a national retail study, small businesses generated 3.7 times more direct local economic benefit than spending at chains, according to a memo from the U.S. Committee on Small Business.

Exploring digital tools to help you Shop Local supports our community’s small business growth. This holiday season, your choices have the power to help local entrepreneurs flourish and keep Carlsbad’s distinct character alive.

Strength in Community

The holidays are a time to come together — to share joy, give generously, and celebrate what makes our community special. As you craft your holiday plans, consider the difference your shopping can make. Choose to celebrate the season locally — explore Carlsbad’s boutiques, savor its restaurants, and embrace the joy of discovering gifts that can’t be found anywhere else.

Carlsbad’s small businesses have shown remarkable resilience and creativity year after year — now it’s our turn to show our appreciation. Let’s celebrate the season by shopping local, spreading cheer, and keeping the heart of Carlsbad shining bright this holiday season.