Keep the Cheer Here: Chamber Launches 2026 Shop & Dine Campaign
The holiday season is one of the most important times for small businesses, and the Henderson County Chamber is encouraging residents to make a conscious effort to support our small business community. As part of Small Business Season (November 1st –December 31st), the Chamber is once again highlighting the power of local shopping and dining through its annual Shop & Dine Campaign.
Every time a purchase is made at a Henderson County business, that investment reaches far beyond a single transaction. Local dollars help create jobs, support entrepreneurs, strengthen community organizations, and contribute to the economic vitality that makes Henderson County a special place to live, work, and visit.
According to the National Retail Federation, holiday spending is expected to increase by 4.2% over 2025, with consumers projected to spend an average of $1,013.20 per person on gifts and seasonal items this year. If Henderson County residents chose to keep even a portion of those holiday dollars local, the impact on our community could be significant
Consumer interest in supporting local businesses is also on the rise. Recent research from Constant Contact found that the percentage of shoppers planning to increase spending specifically to support small businesses has grown from 11% in 2024 to 20.2% in 2026. Consumers cited supporting local merchants, finding more unique gifts, and enjoying personalized customer service as top reasons for shopping small.
Studies show that for every $100 spent at a locally owned business, roughly $48 - $68 stays in the community. That money helps pay employees, support local charities and children’s programs, and keep the lights on for other small businesses, a ripple known as the “local multiplier effect.”
This holiday season, the Chamber is adding an extra reason to keep your spending close to home. For every $100 spent with Henderson County merchants between November 3rd and December 15th, shoppers earn an entry for one of two local gift basket drawings. Bring your receipts to the Henderson County Chamber to enter. Winners will be drawn on December 17th during the Chamber’s December Business After Hours at the Mercedes-Benz of Asheville.
Some exclusions apply: fuel, groceries, prescriptions, and real estate purchases do not qualify, and receipts are capped at $1,000.
Join the Henderson County Chamber, along with Discover Hometown Magazine, Hendersonville/Mills River/Arden/Fletcher Family Dental, Hulsey Media, Noble Pest Solutions, Romeo Harrelson & Mullen P.A, Times-News, The Van Winkle Law Firm, We Sell WNC and WTZQ, as we keep the cheer here this holiday season!
For more information on the Shop & Dine Henderson County campaign, please call the Chamber of Commerce at 828.692.1413.