Stillwater Supports Local Businesses Beyond the Holiday Season

When you walk through downtown Stillwater, Minnesota, almost every store is full. You pass by bustling retail shops, collaborative spaces, and restaurants ranging from high-end date-night locations to casual fare. This is the result of a concentrated partnership between the City of Stillwater, the Chamber of Commerce, and local businesses in the area. All three parties work together to do what’s best for businesses and residents alike.

“People in Stillwater are passionate about the community in ways I have never seen,” says Robin Anthony, Executive Director of the Greater Stillwater Chamber of Commerce. “Whenever there is a problem, we come together and find solutions to bring people downtown and create better experiences for the people who live here.”

As you plan your holiday shopping this winter, visit downtown Stillwater and see why this area is thriving. See how this community brings people back through January and beyond. 

The Business Community Has a Problem-Solving Mindset

The partnership between the City, Chamber, and business community didn’t happen overnight. It has formed over the past few years as the three parties worked together to overcome unexpected hurdles.

For example, when two blocks of downtown Main Street closed for construction in 2023, local businesses worked together to throw a dance party to draw people out. The event was inspired by a street dance photo from 1901 and highlighted how businesses were still open during the construction period. The dance party turned a stressful construction period into a celebratory, income-generating event.

Collaboration doesn’t just occur when major issues arise. It happens every day as business leaders ask for help securing permits or understanding various ordinances. When the City is active in providing answers and the Chamber uses its resources to provide assistance, the community moves forward all on the same page.

“Stillwater is a fantastic example of what happens when the City and Chamber listen to business owners,” says Chris Eng, Economic Development Director for the Washington County Community Development Agency (CDA). “The community has created an environment that supports companies, allowing them to create better experiences for customers. You see their success in the busy downtown area and lack of vacant storefronts.” 

Residents Benefit With Unique Holiday Shopping Opportunities

One of the best ways for people in Washington County to experience the collaborative nature of Stillwater’s downtown is to visit during the holiday season. Hometown for the Holidays takes place over the four weekends leading up to Christmas. There is a particularly fun lineup this year for kids and adults alike:

• November 28-30: Shop Small Weekend
• December 4-7: Twinkle Weekend with a tree lighting and fireworks
• December 11-14: Candy Town Weekend with an outdoor concert
• December 18-21: Furry Friends Weekend with a pet parade

The event includes a strolling Santa greeting families, special events at various businesses, and a Stuff the Bus fundraiser for Community Thread.

“Shopping in your hometown when it’s all lit up brings you back to original traditions with your family and friends,” says Anthony.

The Chamber also has a solution for people who are impossible to buy for: Chamber Bucks. These are gift certificates you can purchase through the Chamber of Commerce that are valid at any participating local business. There are more than 100 locations in Stillwater that accept these gift certificates, and participation is free for businesses. They are perfect gifts for teachers, employees, or anyone who cares about shopping local. 

Stillwater Has Events Planned for January

While December is a festive time full of colorful lights and events, January tends to be quieter. The short days and cold weather keep people indoors, slowing traffic to the downtown area. The City of Stillwater wanted to keep the community engaged during this period and has invested in events to make winter brighter.

The World Snow Celebration is celebrating its fifth year in Stillwater from January 13-25, 2026. Teams from 16 different countries are traveling to Stillwater to create amazing snow sculptures and compete for the title of World Champion (and the prize money that comes with it). This event attracts more than 50,000 people to downtown, filling hotels and driving traffic to local stores and restaurants.

“The World Snow Celebration has really fueled the economy,” says Anthony. “It brings diversity, culture, art, and sport to the Stillwater area in ways we’ve never seen. We couldn’t execute it if we didn’t have all the support from the community we have.”

This event aligns with the Taste of the Nations celebration, where restaurants create special menu items inspired by the countries visiting Stillwater to compete. This is a creative way to connect restaurants to the World Snow Celebration while encouraging restaurants to try new dishes from their favorite places. 

East Metro MSP Supports Its Small Business Community

Stillwater is just one town in Washington County that invests in small businesses and supports entrepreneurs as they grow. The City of Newport is practicing mindful growth that aligns with the needs of businesses and residents, while Forest Lake is known for its business expo and networking events. There are resources all across East Metro MSP for companies that want to grow and offer quality products to the community.

Washington County stands by its small businesses. Learn how the CDA can support your growth efforts and help you thrive in 2026. Shop local in East Metro MSP and see why entrepreneurs choose this region to grow.