Shopping in, and for, the Square
The party outside the Holyoke Center, complete with Oggi’s pizza, hot apple cider, and musical performances by the co-ed a cappella group the Harvard LowKeys, was more than a festive way to kick off the season. It was also a reminder of Harvard’s ties to the local community, even when making a holiday shopping list. Dozens of staff, faculty, and students — along with local business owners and Harvard President Drew Faust — turned out at Forbes Plaza on Thursday (Dec. 2) to kick off Crimson Shops Local, an annual effort by the University and the Harvard Square Business Association (HSBA) to encourage shopping nearby this season. The event also featured discounts to Harvard Square restaurants, retailers, and other businesses. From their morning coffee to their evening errands, many members of the Harvard community patronize local businesses almost every day. But holiday sales are crucial for many retailers’ survival, especially in Harvard...