Collingswood Celebrates Christmas in July

Every year, around Christmastime, Collingswood gives away free cash with its Christmas in July promotion.

But this year, borough officials have decided to make the annual promo semi-annual—with Christmas in July.

This month, shoppers can purchase their Collingswood Cash for one day only, on Friday, July 22. 

That day, those who purchase $50-worth of Collingswood Cash—similar to a gift certificate, valid at any businesses in the borough—will receive $10 in bonus cash, bringing their credit to $60.

Collingswood Cash was first introduced in Christmastime of 2008, in an effort to stimulate business in downtown Collingswood during the shopping season. The borough gave $20 of free cash for every $50 purchased in Collingswood Cash. 

In the past three years, Collingswood Cash—between bonus cash and purchased cash—has generated over $680,000 for borough business.

"Businesses that pair the free money with (their own) specials do very well," said Mayor James Maley of the promo. "We see a significant uptick in shoppers and diners coming to town when we run these specials, and that's exactly what we're looking for. It's an added bonus to come to Collingswood." 

Collingswood Cash works like this: the giveaway is financed by the borough, through taxes raised by borough business owners in the Business Improvement District (BID). 

These BID members then accept Collingswood Cash at their establishments, and later take them to borough hall to redeem for cash.

Since the promo sold out within hours this past Christmas season, shoppers are urged to arrive at early on July 22. 

Collingswood Cash is always available to purchase at borough hall, "at face value," according to officials. But only during Christmas in July can shoppers receive free, bonus cash. 

The maximum amount of Collingswood Cash shoppers can purchase on July 22 is $100, bringing them $20 in free cash. 

"Shoppers commonly buy gifts and dinners, but many take advantage of the extra cash for car repairs, vacations, dental work and even had animals taxidermied because of the boost in spending power," said the borough's official Christmas in July release. 

In addition to , Collingswood Cash will be available to purchase at and . 

“In Collingswood, every day is Christmas, even in July,” said Mayor Maley.