LAKEVIEW — Businesses on Lakeview's west side are helping commuters jumpstart their holiday shopping with a gift card giveaway Friday.
From 7 to 9 a.m., the Lakeview Chamber of Commerce will give away 100 gift cards that can be used at 80 shops and restaurants in the neighborhood.
The gift cards will be worth anywhere from $5 to $100, and the chamber will have Santa's helpers handing them out at the Paulina Brown Line "L" station, 3410 N. Lincoln Ave.
"Lakeview is the perfect holiday season destination for shopping, dining and getting in the holiday spirit," said Lee Crandell, the chamber's executive director. "We're working with our businesses to create a 'one-stop-shop,'" with shopping, entertainment and visits from Santa.
The chamber gift cards are valid at shops like Army Navy Sales, Building Blocks Toy Store, David's Tea and Frankie's on the Park, as well as many restaurants along Southport, Lincoln and Ashland avenues. A full list can be found here.
Those who purchase $100 gift cards at the chamber office, 1409 W. Addison St., or online will receive bonus $20 cards through Dec. 31. The chamber is also providing holiday gift guides with the cards, including ideas for unique local gifts.
Holiday festivities will begin in west Lakeview on Dec. 2 with the Holiday Southport Stroll. From 5 to 9 p.m., restaurants and local businesses will stay open late along Southport Avenue from Belmont Avenue to Irving Park Road.
Along with holiday specials and entertainment, Santa will be at Sheil Park, 3505 N. Southport Ave., for free photos from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
It won't be the last chance to snap a pic with Santa — additional free photos with the big man will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 10 at Arthur Murray Lakeview, 3301 N. Lincoln Ave.; and Dec. 16 at A Little Photo Studio, 2868 N. Lincoln Ave.
For more neighborhood news, listen to DNAinfo Radio here.
