Jean Bowman, Explore Alexandria Tourism | October 28, 2026
As election season approaches, we’re reminded that our voices matter. But there are other ways to make a difference right here in Alexandria, and they don’t require a ballot. We can show our support through our words, our spending and the choices we make every day.
One of the easiest ways to show appreciation for a local business is to leave a positive online review. Think about the places you enjoy visiting. Maybe it’s the restaurant where the staff remembers your name, the boutique where you find the perfect gift or the service provider who goes the extra mile. Have you told anyone else?
A few kind words online can go a long way.
Google reviews are especially valuable because people often search Google when deciding where to eat, shop or find a service. Simply search for the business on Google, open its reviews section and select “Write a review.” Share a few sentences about what you appreciated, whether it was friendly service, a favorite menu item or a great shopping experience.
You can also recommend businesses on Facebook, share their social media posts or tag them when posting a photo of a great experience. These small actions help businesses reach new customers and build trust with people who may not have discovered them otherwise.
You don’t need to write an essay or be a social media expert. Just be genuine and specific. If you appreciate a business, let others know why.
Another meaningful way to show your support is to spend your money locally. Residents can also help promote the Pride of the Lakes initiative, which encourages everyone to support local businesses whenever possible and celebrate the many shops, restaurants and services that help make Alexandria a vibrant community. Learn more at PrideOfTheLakes.com.
When you shop at a locally owned store, dine at an independent restaurant or hire a local service provider, you help keep dollars circulating in our community. Local businesses employ our neighbors, support community organizations, sponsor youth activities and contribute to the character that makes Alexandria special.
Shopping locally doesn’t mean you must buy everything here. It simply means considering local options first. Before ordering online, check whether a local store carries what you need. Instead of heading out of town for dinner, try a restaurant right here in Douglas County. Explore downtown, visit a shop you haven’t tried or recommend a local business to a friend.
And speaking of restaurants, there’s an excellent opportunity coming up to put that support into action.
Alexandria Restaurant Week returns November 2–8!
Restaurant Week invites residents and visitors to explore our local dining scene and try something new. Visit a restaurant you’ve never experienced, order a dish you’ve been curious about or revisit an old favorite. Your participation introduces restaurants to potential regular customers and reminds our local dining businesses that the community appreciates what they do.
Find participating restaurants and details at explorealex.com/restaurant-week.
Restaurant Week is also about investing in the next generation of community leaders. Explore Alexandria Tourism is proud to collaborate with local high school DECA students on this initiative. DECA helps students develop real-world skills in marketing, entrepreneurship and business. This partnership gives students an opportunity to connect classroom learning with the businesses that help our community thrive.
By participating, you’re doing more than enjoying a good meal. You’re supporting local restaurants, encouraging student learning and strengthening connections between our schools and business community. Brooke, Sabrina and Connor are doing a fantastic job!
This election season, remember that community support doesn’t end at the polls. Every thoughtful review, local purchase and new restaurant you try helps strengthen Alexandria.
Let’s celebrate the businesses that make our community special. Leave a review, shop locally and join us for Restaurant Week, November 2–8. Together, we can help Alexandria’s businesses—and the next generation of local leaders—thrive.