Now into its fifth week, organizers say the Passport to Christmas Program is trending ahead of the previous year.

After the latest round of completed passports were collected, organizers report over $1.7 million in local shopping has been tracked.

That’s eight per cent higher compared to the same point in 2023, says Michelle Meatheringham, executive director for the Rocky Chamber.

For every $10 spent at participating local businesses, one stamp is earned. Once participants collect 10 stamps, they can enter the draw.

This year’s prizes include a first-place prize of $1,000, a second-place prize of $500, and a third-place prize of $250—all awarded in Chamber Bucks, to be spent locally.

Additionally, Meatheringham says a number of new sponsors have come on board to allow the daily $100 chamber bucks prize to be extended longer into December.

Participating businesses are recognized on air on 94.5 Rewind Radio.