Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce: Rekindle the Spirit of the Season with 'Holidays in The Shires'

(Originally published in the Bennington Banner, November 21 2023)

BENNINGTON — The Shires of Southwestern Vermont Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) – operating under the Southwestern Vermont Chamber of Commerce – offered an invitation to both residents and travelers to enjoy the "Holidays in The Shires" this November and December, in a Tuesday release.

The holiday marketing campaign encourages patrons to explore, shop, savor, create, and revel in quality family time throughout the Southwestern Vermont region by enjoying community activities. Positioned as the "Official Holiday Calendar of The Shires," the campaign promises a memorable seasonal experience for all.

Matt Harrington, executive director of the chamber, introduced the campaign's hallmark feature – an interactive and dynamic holiday events calendar –saying, "We've crafted a platform that offers an engaging and comprehensive calendar of holiday events, providing everyone with an opportunity to explore and discover what piques their interest this holiday season."

Local businesses, nonprofits, and community members across the region are encouraged to contribute to this calendar by uploading their events, free of charge.

"The 'Holidays in The Shires' campaign is committed to promoting these events and driving digital viewers to the calendar," the release said. "The calendar already features an array of events including Thanksgiving public dinners, delectable baked goods from area restaurants, kids' activities at cultural institutions, holiday craft fairs, tree lightings, lighted parades, and seasonal sales, among others."

Both organizations and individuals eager to promote their public holiday events, sales, causes, or promotions are encouraged to upload their offerings at exploretheshires.com/holidaysintheshires.

The "Holidays in The Shires" campaign will be amplified through social media, digital advertising, and local media channels and will conclude after New Year's Day.