Businesses in West Hollywood are receiving a boost from several initiatives aimed at increasing patronage and support for local merchants still feeling the aftershocks of recent difficult times. First up is the "WeHappy Wednesdays" program, which will offer free parking every Wednesday night throughout April from 4:00 p.m. to midnight. NBC Los Angeles reports that this initiative, spearheaded by the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, intends to encourage community members to revisit their favorite spots and check out new ones by removing the obstacle of parking fees. Normally, parking meters on thoroughfares like Sunset Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard cost up to $2 an hour.
As part of WeHappy Wednesdays, patrons will not only enjoy complimentary parking but are also set to score deals and discounts at restaurants and bars in the area. NBC Los Angeles quoted Genevieve Morrill, President & CEO of the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, saying, "This initiative removes a common barrier to visiting local establishments and encourages the community to rediscover favorite spots and explore new ones —all while directly supporting local businesses."
The West Hollywood Chamber also introduced the "WeHo Gives Back" campaign. According to a post on the Chamber's Instagram, this initiative places QR codes on napkins at small businesses, allowing customers to seamlessly donate funds to aid in recovery and sustainability efforts. West Hollywood Chamber's Instagram post stated, "The small businesses of West Hollywood are resilient, but they need our community’s support now more than ever. WeHo Gives Back is our way of ensuring these establishments receive the support they need to recover and thrive."
The free parking and incentives to visit local establishments on Wednesdays extend to various districts within West Hollywood, with deals such as discounted drinks and special happy hours. According to the West Hollywood Chamber's website, participating venues range widely, offering everything from $5 beer and $8 cocktails at the Formosa Cafe to exclusive discounts at retail stores like Atacama Home and Bloom Boom. Additionally, the Chamber has made it simpler to donate to the recovery fund, with direct links for contribution available through their platform.
