While the summer months bring relief to many locals – with less traffic, smaller crowds, and dreams of jetting away on summer vacation – for local business owners, it’s something else entirely.

During the time period often known as the “Summertime Slump,” many of Bradenton’s small business owners are faced with empty stores and quiet cash registers. For some, these slow summer months are a time when they’ll either “make it or break it.”

This year, Discover Bradenton is asking YOU to make a difference by choosing to support local whenever the opportunity arises. There’s no better time than now to stop and browse that boutique you’ve been meaning to visit, try a new restaurant, or revisit an old favorite.

Looking to beat the heat? Gather up the family or some friends, and head out to take an art lesson, dance class, or other fun local activity. You’ll find that there are shorter waits and many merchants offer summertime discounts.

And – we’re sweetening the pot for you! We’ve gathered a large group of local businesses who are participating in our Summer “Hot Spot” Crawl. Here’s how it works…

1. Click the link below for a list of participating merchants
2. Visit as many merchants as possible! While you’re there, look for the Shop Crawl QR Code
3. Scan the code, add your info, and you’re in!

The Hot Spot Crawl runs from June 1st through July 31st, 2024. You can enter once per day, per location.  Each week, we’ll randomly select winners to receive gift cards and other prizes from participating merchants. If you win, you’ll be notified via email and you’ll have 5 days to claim your prize.

Winners will also be announced on Facebook.com/DiscoverBradenton. Follow us so you don’t miss a thing!

Ready to get started? Click here to check out the current merchant list 👇