With such great neighborhoods in SF it’s easy not to have to leave your ‘hood. For many residents, you can get groceries, grab a coffee, read a book and go to the gym all within blocks of where you live. This can also be applied to holiday shopping. Neighborhood businesses are encouraging residents to keep it local this year by hosting various block parties featuring discounted goods and services. Tonight Bernal Heights merchants and businesses hosts their first annual Holiday Evening Stroll from 6-9pm.

Cortland Avenue is a charming hub full of great cafes and shops and has increasingly become a foodie destination within the city. The following places will be offering treats and special deals:

Integral Body: Japanese tea tasting, ear needle demo

Avedanos: Lardo and some other tasty tastys

Spice Hound: Serving hot mulled cider

Heartfelt: Grog and cookies!

Inclusions Gallery: Refreshments. Perhaps some live music.

Stray Bar: Drink specials, Hot Cider, Holiday cookies, and more!

fit Bernal fit & Jean Pedigo Photo: “Holiday-wear” contest for Bernal dogs, win a 1-hour photo shoot

Reinvintage: DJ Music and buzz

Neighborhood Center: Reception w/ live music. Happy Cowboy BBQ in front.

Liberty Cafe Wine Bar: Wine tasting and hors d’oeuvres (in the back)

Chuck’s Store: Learn from Leblon how to make Caipirinha your holiday drink

Four Star Video: 2-for-1 deal on used DVDs

Kingmond Young: 15% off family photo sessions

Succulence: 10% off everything in the store

Sounds like a good time. I like these kind of things as they spread community spirit and create neighborhood cohesiveness. Happiness for the holidays!

• Tag: deals, festivals, holiday, Neighborhoods, shopping