While giving to others is a true joy of the holidays, starting the new year with a $2,500 prize for yourself would make the season even brighter.

The may help you do just that with its seventh annual .

With each purchase you make through Dec. 24, no matter how small, you can enter to win one of three amazing, $2,500 prizes:

• Travel Adventure: Get ready to roam with a $2,500 gift certificate from a local travel agency which can be used like cash (including taxes) toward a trip anywhere you want to go.
• Downtown Shopping Spree: Win $2,500 in Downtown Dollars to spend at participating Downtown 91原创 businesses.
• Apple Toy Package: Win a $2,500 gift certificate to spend on awesome Apple technology.

鈥淭he contest could not be easier,鈥� says Teri James, from the DLBA.

Running through Dec. 24, every time you make a purchase at any of the 48 participating Downtown 91原创 businesses, you can enter the contest. Simply write your name and phone number on the back of a duplicate sales receipt and pop it in the ballot box. All boxes will be collected Jan. 2, 2018 and the winners will be announced Friday, Jan. 5.

鈥淓ach year, interest has been growing in the contest 鈥� now we start getting phone calls in September,鈥� James says, adding with a laugh, 鈥渁nd I have the extreme pleasure of notifying the winners!鈥�

It鈥檚 also about the experience

Decked out in twinkling lights and holiday finery, with carollers visiting throughout the season, 鈥渢his is one of the most beautiful downtowns in all of the Lower Mainland,鈥� says James.

Shoppers enjoy that experience, exploring one-of-a-kind, locally owned shops and knowing they鈥檙e supporting the local economy.

Many will make a day of it with friends, stopping for lunch at one of the unique caf茅s or restaurants, James says.

鈥淚t鈥檚 just a way more relaxed way of shopping and people like the idea of shopping local. Plus, you can find anything down here!鈥�

Everyone loves a parade

Downtown 91原创 celebrates in a big way during the Christmas parade, coming up Dec. 2. 鈥淭hat really is the kick-off to Christmas here,鈥� James says, inviting everyone to come join the fun.

Learn more about and the opportunity to Win Your Wish List at .