Shop Small to Support Local in Stockton, California

It is officially holiday shopping season! Local chambers and merchant associations are encouraging everyone to shop early to avoid losing critical dollars to online purchases. So, here are 8 ideas to shop local in Stockton, California. Whether you’re visiting Stockton and want to bring home something special, or you are a local who wants to contribute to the success of your city, read on for some great options.

1. Support Small Businesses

Stockton is filled with locally-owned shops & small businesses that not only provide quality service & merchandise, but also fuel are local economy. We encourage you to try shopping at stores along Stockton's Miracle Mile and Lincoln Center every day of the year, or check our shopping page to see a list of local businesses that chose to make their home here in Stockton, California. Need plenty more unique shopping ideas? We've nailed down these local shops, perfect for shopping year-round.

2. The Stockton Savings Pass

Everyone enjoys saving money! Sign up for the FREE Stockton Savings Pass to get hundreds of dollars of savings at the area’s best establishments. Visit Stockton offers a mobile dine, drink, and shop pass consisting of annual deals and perks at locally owned businesses in the Stockton area. Find a curated list of professional services on the savings pass as well as local restaurants and attractions.

3. Stockton is Stocked Full of Flavor, literally!

Skip the Amazon gift card and buy gift certificates to local Mom-and-Pop boutiques and restaurants. Gift certificates get more popular every year. Plus who isn't happy to receive them for any occasion - including for food?! Gift certificates to a favorite eatery can really hit the spot, and help support local restaurants. You can also find a good list of restaurants on our outdoor dining page. If you still haven't found what you are looking for, you can just swing by a local restaurant of your choosing using our handy-dandy restaurant directory.

4. Membership Passes to Local Museums

Buying gifts for art lovers? San Joaquin County has an array of museums that offer unique gift ideas for a friend or family member interested in the arts. A museum membership might also be welcome a welcome surprise.

A few places to consider:

• The Haggin Museum (they also have a phenomenal gift shop full of unique gifts)
• San Joaquin County Historical Society and Museum
• Stockton Maritime Museum
• Mexican Heritage Center
• Children's Museum of Stockton

5. Membership Passes to Sports & Entertainment

"Are you not entertained?!" Well, change that with some membership and season passes to some quality sports & entertainment events in our city. Whether its basketball, baseball, theatre, or music you're looking for, you'll find plenty of it here!

• Stockton Ports
• Stockton Kings
• Stockton Symphony
• Stockton Civic Theatre
• Stockton Chorale

6. Exercise Enthusiast

Give something more healthy and beneficial to a loved one than something that will just sit in their house to gather dust. Why not give the gift of wellness? Giving the gift of health will make any workout enthusiast (or newly health-conscious friend) smile! With healthy dining options, fitness centers, and yoga studios in Stockton, taking good care of your health has never been easier. Check out our Health & Wellness page for ideas that will make everyone happy!

7. Makers and Artisans

Unique gifts for those you love and special treats for yourself are always money well spent. For many years, Stocktonians have been crafting specialty items right here in our city. They sell their wares at local festivals and markets on weekends in Stockton, and throughout the Central Valley and Bay Area. In order to give you access to those items all year round, we've gathered together a list of the best you can find. Check out what they are creating by visiting our Makers & Artisans directory.

8. Farmers' Markets

Stockton has a wealth of Farmers' Markets to choose from and they can be a great place to find some gifts. From fresh local ingredients for the home chef or foodie in your life to jewelry, art, and other fun items from local makers, these markets are filled with opportunity. Plus they're located all around town throughout the week, so no matter what your schedule is, you'll have time to visit at least one of them.

9. Stockton Souvenirs

Treat your special someone, friend, or family member to Stockton mementos from Visit Stockton! Explore the collection of Official Stockton branded shirts, hats, beanies, mugs, and even Stockton history books from local authors. All products sold on stocktonsouvenirs.com promote and celebrate Stockton. You can order all of the Stockton souvenirs online, and even have them shipped - for FREE!

Need more recommendations throughout Stockton? You can message us 7 days a week for assistance on shopping, dining, and things to do in Stockton.

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