Unbox the Holidays – Ferndale Has Ways to Be Festive and Love Local
(Crystal A. Proxmire, Nov. 27, 2020)
Ferndale, MI- As closures and social distancing requirements put strain on small business owners, the Ferndale community is coming together with a series of promotions and opportunities to “Unbox the Holidays.”
“2020 is the perfect year to ditch big box and support the local shops and restaurants that make Ferndale great. Unboxtheholidays.com allows you to easily shop for gifts online, buy gift cards, find safe self-care options, or order amazing take-out for those days when you just don’t want to cook,” said Joy Wells, Director of the Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce.
The Unbox the Holidays campaign is a collaboration between the Chamber, the City, and the DDA, with all organizations working in unison on this #ShopLocal initiative.
“Our new website allows you to shop for the perfect gift online, buy gift cards to your favorite local businesses , find safe self-care options for the hectic holiday season, and order delicious take-out or delivery from a variety of local restaurants,” said DDA Director Lena Stevens.  “When you shop local, you create more local jobs, keep more funding within the community, reduce environmental impacts, and simply, keep Ferndale unique!”
BONUS DOLLARS
One part of the promotion is an eGiftCard system that awards bonus dollars to shoppers.
In collaboration with Yiftee, purchasers can buy a gift in any dollar amount up to $250 and send it virtually to the recipient of their choice. Recipients can then redeem their gift card balance at ANY participating Ferndale business.
Thanks to the good tidings of DTE Energy and Level One Bank, this promotion will include a gift of $25 for every $50 gift card purchase through Dec. 4 or while supplies last.  Learn more at Yifee.com.
BEST IN SNOW DECORATING CONTEST
Visitors to Ferndale can vote  for their favorite decorations in the “Best in Snow” contest for businesses. “The businesses of Ferndale are working hard to spread joy, festivity, and cheer by decorating their space in seasonal décor,” Stevens said.  ““While you’re out shopping for the perfect gift, whether in-person or online, cast your vote for your favorite “Best in Snow” display!”
Online voting runs from December 14 through December 27. Winners will be awarded in four categories, including Best In Snow (Best Overall), Eat, Drink, and Be Merry (Most Festive Outdoor Dining & Carryout), Santa’s Workshop (Best Window Shopping Display)   or Clark Griswold (Most Over-The-Top Display). 
LEGACY DAYS
Legacy Days is designed to let customers shop for local retail items and have their order brought to their door for free within 15 miles of Ferndale. Powered by the Ferndale Area Chamber, United Specialty Services will pick up all items for delivery from participating shops and deliver them to front porches  safely.
DECORATE THE DOT
The spirit of the season continues with the Parks and Recreation Department bringing a few more fun-filled festivities this holiday season. Decorate the tree at Ferndale’s brand-new parking structure, The dot! Residents will be given the opportunity to decorate their very own ornament for the Holiday Tree at The dot and other Evergreens around the City. Choose from three different ornaments each with space to add a family photo or name.
SANTA PARADE
Santa Claus is coming to town! The all-new Santa Parade will take place on Saturday, December 12 from 12:00-3:00PM. He will be traveling all around Ferndale to give his season’s greetings.  See Santa at a local park, or wave to him as he passes your house. Be sure to wear your mask, or you may end up on the naughty list.
Find out more about these opportunities and more at http://www.unboxtheholidays.com.