The City of Hobart is inviting everyone to make the most of the festive season by not only shopping locally but turning it into a memorable experience.
December is the most important trading period for Hobart's businesses and a perfect time to enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Recent figures show spending in Hobart reached $446.5 million in the December quarter last year, up 17.5% on the previous quarter, with strong growth in hospitality and entertainment. Attractions and events spending jumped 26% year-on-year, highlighting the city's vibrant festive atmosphere.
Quotes to be attributed to Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds:
"Being in the heart of Hobart feels so vibrant and special at this time of year.
"Our city looks great, and our traders have done so much work to prepare their shops and venues for the festive season.
"The wonderful thing about being in Hobart city is that you can make a day of it!
"There's so many experiences as well as shopping - great cafes, restaurants, bars, parks and galleries. The city has everything from music to massages and markets!
"Central Hobart is a wonderful place to find special products, unique locally made things and it's also a place to have a lovely pre-Christmas day out. And every dollar that we all spend locally supports jobs and the economy."
Quotes to be attributed to Institut Polaire director Louise Radman:
"We encourage everyone to come into the city this festive season. There's fantastic gift shopping, you can take a break in a cool cafe, drop into a wine bar or book a pamper session in one of Hobart's beautiful day spas.
"The whole city comes alive and it's an important season for small businesses in the city.
"We work with lots of small local growers, farmers and fishermen so you are also supporting a community of small businesses."
Quotes to be attributed to Fellini Tasmania owner Pina Angelone:
"Keep it local, keep it in your city. Quality never goes out of style, and in Hobart, fashion is our language. This Christmas, choose local and celebrate what makes our city unique."
Quotes to be attributed to Homeroom Design co-owner Lucy Gott:
"December is such an important time of the year for retailers, as for many it sets us up for the year and quieter times ahead. It's important now, more than ever to support your local stores - it means the world to small businesses and business owners.
"For us we are coming into our 10th Christmas and couldn't have got this far without the local community and their support every year."
Quotes to be attributed to Florage Tasmania owner Tom Miller:
"Christmas in the City brings a genuine sense of joy to Hobart. It is a time when the community comes together to explore the city, enjoy local experiences and share in the celebration. At Florage Tasmania we value being part of this event and contributing to moments of happiness throughout the season.
"We're in the business of helping people make other people happy, especially at this time of year. Christmas in the City is a great opportunity for Hobart to come together, find thoughtful gifts and share a little kindness. The whole team at Florage Tasmania really values being part of this experience.
"Christmas in the City is an important event for local retailers. We encourage the Hobart community to shop local, and we're proud to stand alongside other Tasmanian businesses who are committed to quality and sustainability."
