Do you love shopping and supporting local? Do you want something fun to do and like a bit of a challenge? If you answered “yes” to any of those questions, get your “shopping passport” and “hop” to all of the events at the very first Northeast Florida Holiday Shop Hop!

The Northeast Florida Holiday Shop Hop is a multi-week holiday shopping event featuring some of the area's best pop-up markets, local makers and small businesses—running on weekends from November 5 through December 18 in Jacksonville, Atlantic Beach, St. Augustine and St. Johns, as well as online.

So, how does this work, you might ask? Shoppers are encouraged to “hop” (visit) all events on the shopping passport to collect stamps on their shopping passport (code words will be provided during online events in place of stamps). Participants will turn in their completed passport at the last market for a chance to win a prize pack. This is an exciting way to discover local treasures, locations and talent. Be sure to join our Facebook group to interact with us, find information, and share pictures of the fun you are having while “hopping” around!

A list of events can be found on the shopping passport on the outside back cover of this issue of Natural Awakenings magazine or online at our Facebook group page (see endnotes). 

The first event in the lineup is the Vintage Arts Christmas Makers Market, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on November 5, in Jacksonville. While there is no admission fee for these shop-hop events; some event hosts are requesting donations of nonperishable foods as to further support local charities for people and pets.

Come see local talent, finish your holiday shopping list, and have some fun exploring Northeast Florida. Let us show you why our local crafting events and small businesses are treasured and beloved traditions!

Many thanks are to be given to the event coordinators, small business owners and to Natural Awakenings magazine for their combined efforts on this unique first-time event supporting the best of what local Northeast Florida has to offer!

For more information, visit Facebook.com/groups/2735721536561884. See shopping passport on the outside back cover.