February is often associated with grand gestures of romantic L-O-V-E, but here in Arvada, love shows up in so many other ways: the small businesses we support, the friends we cheer for, and the neighbors we look out for. One of the best things about being a part about Arvada, is seeing local love in action every day. It's in the collaborations, the encouragement, and the way the community shows up for one another. It is what makes Arvada feel both welcoming and inspiring, making this a place many are proud to call home. Whether you have lived here for years or are just putting down roots, take the time to learn about what your neighbors do and how you can support them.
Local love doesn’t require grand gestures, big time or even financial commitments from you. Local love shows up in choosing to purchase an item at a local store versus a big box store or shopping online. It’s showing up to a community event. It’s choosing to support your friend trying something new, or recommending a business you genuinely believe in. These small acts of support create a ripple effect that strengthens our local economy in even bigger ways. Arvada is full of people who pour their heart and soul into what they do, so let’s show the love and support they deserve.
This month, we invite you to be mindful of the choices you make and the impact you have. When we choose to support local, we’re not just supporting businesses– we’re investing in the people, relationships, and Arvada as a whole. With that, we’re here to share intentional ways you can support local, strengthen the local community, and show appreciation for the people that make it a place to be proud to be a part of.
1. Support Local on Purpose
Whether it's intentionally stopping by a local coffee shop before work once a week or booking a workout class, where you spend your money matters. It’s choosing to stop by your local bakery or neighborhood cottage baker or making reservations at a local restaurant instead of a chain. Choosing to support local businesses keeps Arvada thriving and you may just make a new friend.
2. Leave a Kind Review
A positive Google, Facebook, or Yelp review might seem small, but for a local business, it can make a huge impact. The next time you have a good experience with a sales associate, waiter, stylist, advisor, or enjoy an outstanding dining experience: take two minutes to shout out the great service, a product you love, or how inviting or clean the space was. In just one to two minutes, your words can help another local find their next favorite hidden gem and bring in new business for the owner.
3. Choose Local Gifts
Valentine’s gifts don’t have to come from designer brands or big-box stores. Think local flower shops, chocolates, art, experiences, or gift cards. Check out our City Scene List in this issue for great recommendations or explore the Arvada Neighbors Facebook group where you can find a local artist to create a one-of-a-kind gift for you. You might be surprised by what all Arvada has to offer.
4. Show Up
Attend a community event, a pop-up, an art show, a workout class, or a local meet-up. Showing up is one of the simplest ways to support Arvada’s entrepreneurs, small business owners, and creatives alike. Our City does an amazing job of hosting events, markets, and concerts and by showing up, we help ensure these community experiences continue for us all to enjoy. You may learn something new or even find a new hobby.
5. Share the Love Online
We’re all online these days, and social media has become such an important tool for small businesses. Think of this as the 2026 version of word-of-mouth and the way we share our favorite restaurants, experiences, and people with our friends. Be sure to tag your favorite local businesses in your stories, share about a place you love, or shoutout to a great experience you had. Highlight your favorite local influencers page or recommend a business to a friend. When used genuinely and intentionally, it helps small businesses reach new customers and grow.
6. Bring a Friend Somewhere New
Introduce someone to a local business they haven’t tried yet. Invite a friend to a new coffee spot, workout class, or a restaurant you’ve never been to. Trying new things and visiting new places not only expands our world, but also introduces those we love to new people, places, and experiences as well. Sharing your favorite places is the easiest way to show some love and turn a local business into a new fan favorite.
7. Say Thank You
These days more than ever, a kind word can go a long way. You never know what kind of day someone may be having, so even if you see the same barista or shop owner every day, take a moment to thank them. Tell them what a wonderful job they do or the great service they provide and let them know they are appreciated. These are the people who make the world go round, and it costs nothing to be kind. What may seem like a small gesture to you, can be the moment someone remembers from their day and puts a smile on their face.
9. Love Local- All Year Long
Local love isn’t just for the month of February; it is an ongoing commitment to support the people and places that make Arvada thrive. When we choose local, we invest in our community and each other saying "we believe in you!"
This February, let's share the love all month long, right here at home!