ReDiscover Catonsville

Dial Down The Stress: Shop In Your Neighborhood

"Remember that feeling" of past holiday seasons, when life was simpler and less stressed? Remember when we felt connected to our community and took the time to slow down and enjoy the season's pleasures?

ReDiscover that feeling - shop, dine and enjoy the season in one of Baltimore County's 12 local neighborhood downtowns.Baltimore County's neighborhood downtowns are located in Arbutus, Catonsville, Dundalk, Essex, Landsdowne, Liberty Road, Overlea-Fullerton, Parkville, Pikesville, Reisterstown, Towson and Woodlawn Village.

A Holiday Gift: Convenient Free Parking

Baltimore County Economic Development and the Baltimore County Revenue Authority offer area shoppers free parking at all street meters and metered County parking lots Thanksgiving Day through the holiday weekend, November 27 - November 30, and December 14 - 21, 2008.

Dial down the stress: shop in your neighborhood

Enjoy the holidays without the hectic pace and stresses that can be associated with crowded malls and large retail centers. Local shops located in the County's "neighborhood downtowns" offer unique products and gift ideas, as well as a slower pace where you can engage wit the business owver and receive personalized service. In most cases, you can park your car close by and walk from shop to shop - avoiding the congestion and hassle of finding parking in a large crowded lot.

Get to know local businesses such as florist, bakeries and hair stylists that can help you prepare for this year's holiday season. Relax in a neighborhood restaurant - many feature made-from-scratch food items that you won't find in a chain restaurant. Many of the local businesses in Baltimore County's neighborhood downtowns are located in historic districts, adding traditional flavor to the season.