(Atlantic, Iowa) – To celebrate being Iowa’s number one Christmas destination, the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce has launched a ‘Christmas in Atlantic Holiday Shop’ with custom gifts and more surprises for the holiday season.

Chamber Executive Director Bailey Smith says “We knew we couldn’t be the number one Christmas destination in Iowa without some ‘swag’ for residents and guests to purchase when visiting us this time of year. We’re kicking things off with three ornaments that are designed to represent the whimsical nature of our celebration, like Santa’s Cabin, and celebrate the nostalgia of what makes us unique, which is our downtown lights display. More items will be added to the shop as the holiday season continues.”

The ornaments are available for purchase at the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce and are $15 each or all three for $40. To sweeten the deal, ornaments will be available at a discount this Saturday, November 9th during the annual Discount AtlantiCash event, presented by First Whitney Bank & Trust. Saturday only, ornaments will be available for $12 each or all three for $35 when you purchase AtlantiCash.

“We wanted to offer a deal to sweeten the excitement of Discount AtlantiCash and give shoppers the opportunity to start the Christmas magic early,” Smith said.

From 9 AM – 12 PM Saturday, November 9th only, AtlantiCash will be available in packs of $100 for $80, a 20% discount. Shoppers can purchase up to three packs. Payment must be made at time of purchase in the form of cash or check only. There is a first-come, first-purchased basis with only a limited amount of AtlantiCash available.

Since AtlantiCash is money that has to be spent at local businesses, it boosts the Local Option Sales Tax, and supports businesses and what they offer this holiday season. Last year, Smith said, the Chamber sold $40,000 in about 45 minutes. The goal this year is to sell another $40,000.  Smith said “We wouldn’t be able to pull off this promotion without the help of our amazing sponsors and First Whitney Bank & Trust. Their partnership helps us support local merchants and put money back into Atlantic.”

The Holiday Open House will also be taking place on Saturday, beginning when retailers open. Businesses will be offering a holiday sneak peek as well as treats, giveaways and special promotions. For a list of participating retailers, visit www.atlanticiowa.com.

Pick up your Christmas brochure from area retail businesses, ‘like’ the Chamber on Facebook or follow on Instagram to find dates and details to celebrate Christmas in Atlantic. You can find a complete list of activities and a printable version of the brochure at www.atlanticiowa.com.

Capture the Christmas magic with #MyAtlanticIA and post to the Atlantic Area Chamber’s Facebook page or Instagram (AtlanticIowaFan). Contact the Atlantic Area Chamber with any questions at chamber@atlanticiowa.com or call 712-243-3017. Christmas in Atlantic is presented by Gregg Young of Atlantic.