Albany, NY (WRGB) -- Restaurants and shopping centers are thriving as the holiday season brings an influx of customers, offering a final boost before the quieter months ahead.
At Artisanal Brew Works, a brewery and bistro in Saratoga Springs, co-owner Kurt Borchardt said the holiday season is critical for their business.
"This is our last big push where we get a lot of people to visit us before January and February, which are very quiet," Borchardt said.
The brewery, which typically closes on Mondays, is making an exception this week and next to capitalize on the festive season. It is also hosting community events, including Breakfast with Santa on Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon. The event features a brunch buffet and photos with Santa.
"Shop local," Borchardt said. "Every dollar you spend at a local establishment stays in the community -- money used to pay employees and buy supplies like the cans I get from Ball Metal in Saratoga."
Artisanal Brew Works is also planning a benefit concert next weekend, with 100% of donations going to Shelters of Saratoga.
"They're all about helping homeless people," Borchardt said.
The Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce is encouraging holiday shopping through its "Love Our Locals" campaign. Shoppers who spend at least $20.24 at local businesses in the county can enter to win thousands of dollars in gift cards.
"We've already had over 3,000 contestants and have given away $6,100 in gift cards," said Todd Shimkus, president of the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce. "They've spent over a quarter of a million dollars locally, and we still have 10 days to go."
In Albany, Stuyvesant Plaza is drawing crowds with holiday events, including live music, horse-drawn carriage rides, and photos with Santa Claus.
"People are always super excited to be on property, see all the holiday decor, listen to live music, and visit Santa," said Leah Homkey, marketing manager for Stuyvesant Plaza. "Then they grab a bite to eat."
More information on the "Love Our Locals" campaign or holiday events at Stuyvesant Plaza can be found here.