My only addition to Rosa Dixon's reasons is that this is a traditionally slow time for all businesses in Humboldt; not just the hospitality industry

 

Humboldt Made just issued a press release to support local businesses. My only addition to Rosa Dixon's reasons is that this is a traditionally slow time for all businesses in Humboldt; not just the hospitality industry. 

Local businesses should also do their part by offering incentives. The uber wealthy of Humboldt may have money to spend; most of us don't thanks to the dwindling economy of Humboldt and not everyone gets paid via grants.

Most businesses should take a lesson from Scrapper's Edge owner Sondra Kirtley. For 22 years, people support her all year around because of her marketing but also because she treats all her customers well and is innovative in incentives to support the business and stays open most of the time except for minimal holidays when everything is closed.

Press Release:

Humboldt Made is encouraging locals and visitors to keep choosing local through the winter and early spring with the Dine, Drink & Stay Humboldt Digital Passport, a free, interactive challenge designed to spotlight restaurants, cafés, breweries, bars, and accommodations across Humboldt County during the slower season.

Running January through March, the passport rewards people for dining out, grabbing a drink, or booking a stay at participating local businesses — all while earning points, collecting badges, and getting entered to win local prizes.

“The hospitality industry is the heartbeat of our communities — and winter can be a tough stretch,” said Charlene Cook, Program Director of Humboldt Made. “The Dine, Drink & Stay passport gives people a fun, easy reason to keep showing up for these businesses while turning everyday outings into something rewarding.”

“So much of life in Humboldt happens around a shared table,well-loved local spot, or a place to stay when friends and family visit,” said Rosa Dixon, Executive Director of Humboldt Made. “This passport encourages people to keep choosing those local gems, even during the quieter winter months.”

The Dine, Drink & Stay Humboldt Passport is powered by the free VibeMap app and features hospitality-focused businesses throughout the county.

Participants can:

●      Check in when visiting participating restaurants, cafés, breweries, bars, or accommodations

●      Leave reviews and upload photos

●      Earn points, unlock badges, and receive entries into prize drawings featuring local gifts, experiences, and more

The more you explore, the more you earn — and every check-in directly supports a local business during a critical time of year.

January through March is traditionally the slowest season for Humboldt County’s hospitality industry. The Dine, Drink & Stay Humboldt Passport is designed to encourage locals and visitors to continue dining out, enjoying local breweries and bars, and booking stays close to home during the winter months.

By participating, users help generate foot traffic, online engagement, and visibility for local restaurants, cafés, breweries, bars, and accommodations — providing meaningful support at a time when it matters most.