Uptown Businesses Prepare for First-Ever 'Cocoa Crawl' Shopping Event on December 13

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Uptown · December 3, 2025

Uptown residents will soon have a sweet new way to support local businesses this holiday season. The neighborhood is preparing for its first-ever 'Cocoa Crawl' on Friday, December 13, where participating businesses along key commercial corridors will offer special cocoa-themed treats and promotions to encourage local shopping.

Organizers at Lost Girls Vintage, one of Uptown's popular boutique retailers, expressed optimism about the event despite recent challenges from Chicago's snowy weather. "We remain hopeful we'll hit our holiday numbers, especially with the upcoming Cocoa Crawl shopping event," said store owner Kyla Azzouzi. The free event will feature musicians spreading holiday cheer while shoppers enjoy complimentary cocoa samples, special discounts, and festive activities at participating locations.

The Cocoa Crawl comes as Uptown businesses face increasing economic pressures heading into the crucial holiday shopping season. Community leaders encourage residents to participate in this and other local events like the annual Winter Walk on Wilson later in December. "Even if it is more expensive, maybe just buy one item from a small business, because one item makes a huge difference," Azzouzi noted. "The money you spend is directly going to people in your community."

Sources:
1. https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/12/02/after-snowy-small-business-saturday-chicago-shop-owners-urge-neighbors-to-buy-local/