Dine LI’s Holiday Gift Card Exchange Returns for Its Fifth Year, Supporting Local Restaurants

November 29, 2024 - by Lon Cohen

Dine LI, a popular Facebook group for Long Island food enthusiasts, is hosting its fifth annual holiday gift card exchange. Organized by group founder Alyssa Guidice, the exchange aims to support local restaurants while encouraging participants to try new dining experiences during the holiday season.

The gift card exchange, which began in 2020, has grown steadily over the years. Last year, 255 participants signed up, supporting 143 different Long Island restaurants. This year, the event promises to continue its mission of boosting small businesses during one of the busiest shopping seasons.

“This is all about supporting local restaurants and getting people out of their comfort zones by hopefully trying somewhere new,” said Alyssa Guidice, the event’s organizer.

Here’s how the exchange works: participants sign up through an online platform, Elfster, and purchase a gift card for a local restaurant or food service establishment of their choosing. The minimum purchase is $20, though participants can spend more if they wish. Chains and Amazon gift cards are excluded to ensure the focus remains on locally owned businesses, though locally owned franchises are permitted.

Participants will be matched with someone via email on December 2nd or 3rd. They then mail or email the gift card to their assigned person by December 18th, choosing whether to remain anonymous or reveal their identity. Once participants receive their gift card, they are encouraged to share their excitement by posting in the Dine LI Facebook group.

“This is such a simple and easy way to give back to our local restaurant community,” said Guidice. “And it’s fun for everyone involved!”

The gift card exchange has been a beloved holiday tradition within the Dine LI community, which boasts thousands of members passionate about Long Island’s diverse culinary scene. The initiative not only supports local businesses but also fosters a sense of connection among participants during the festive season.

Anyone interested in participating can sign up on Elfster via this link. Hurry the gift card exchange ends on Sunday, December 1st!