Once the turkey settles and the naps are through, the holiday shopping season begins. While big box retailers get most of the attention, there’s an effort to support our neighborhood mom-and-pop shops on the Saturday after Thanksgiving.
Small Business Saturday is an annual push to support local, independent retailers. Across San Diego County — from North County to East County — neighborhoods give small businesses the spotlight, encouraging shoppers to spend locally and support community stores throughout the holiday season.
The annual shopping day launched in 2010, backed by American Express as a response to the 2008 economic crisis, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Since then, U.S. consumers spend an estimated $223 billion at small businesses on Small Business Saturday.
This year, local shops across San Diego County open their doors Nov. 29 to keep the discounts going — but with a little extra charm, creativity and human connection waiting behind the register. Whether it’s a hidden-gem bookstore, a family-owned café, or that artsy boutique you go to, this Saturday is your excuse to show them some love.
Here’s a guide to support San Diego’s local businesses — this weekend and all holiday season long.
North Park is the place to go for coffee shops, locally-owned boutiques, unique gifts and small business fun. The North Park Main Street Association has planned a variety of festive activities throughout the Business District, setting the stage for a fun, holiday-filled day of exploring the neighborhood.
What is special about this year is the new Sip & Shop Small initiative. North Park Main Street is helping local coffee shops by giving customers free coffee when they spend $10 at participating shops. Sip, shop and spread a little holiday cheer with your favorite local North Park spots.
For more information, visit North Park’s official website.
Little Italy is celebrating Small Business Season all month long, starting with Small Business Saturday until Dec. 31. As one of the largest Little Italy neighborhoods in the nation, San Diego’s Little Italy is home to a variety of unique boutiques, galleries and shops.
Many locally owned businesses will be offering in-store specials, discounts and extended hours on Saturday. If you prefer to shop from home, many businesses offer online shopping, gift cards and even virtual personal shopping with curbside pick-up. More details here.
Enjoy a day of culture, creativity and community, with more than 75 Chicano-owned businesses in Barrio Logan. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. get ready to shop at local gift shops, artisan record stores and vintage shops in celebration of Small Business Saturday.
‘Tis the season to shop local in Ocean Beach. The Ocean Beach Main Street Association offers various local shop discounts. Shoppers who spend $50 or more between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., will have the opportunity to spin the wheel to win Ocean Beach merchandise, gift cards and more.
OB Beachy Bingo offers shoppers the chance to win prizes at select businesses throughout Ocean Beach. Click here for more information.
The Carlsbad Village Association (CVA) is hosting a celebration with approximately $2,000 in prizes, including gift cards and prize packages from local restaurants and retailers. Complimentary free tote bags and Carlsbad swag giveaways will also be available while supplies last.
This year, Carlsbad is also hosting a Village Scavenger Hunt, where attendees can get the opportunity to enter a prize drawing. For more information about how to enter the giveaway, click here.
This Small Business Saturday, explore downtown Escondido with shopping, dining and a local bingo challenge for a chance to win prize packages.
Free trolley rides return for the event, letting shoppers hop on and off all afternoon to visit Escondido’s favorite small businesses. The day begins at noon at Heritage Garden with family activities, music and photos, then wraps at 5 p.m. at Maple Street Plaza for Escondido’s tree-lighting celebration. Along the way, shoppers can collect stamps at participating stores to complete bingo cards and enter to win holiday prize bundles. More details here.
If shopping near the seaside is more your speed, you’ll want to check out Highway 101 from Encinitas to Leucadia. The stretch of small businesses along the 101 will features locally crafted products that highlight the creativity of the city’s small business owners.
Expect to see live music, storefronts adorned with holiday decorations and perhaps even some seasonal treats as businesses embrace the holiday spirit. The town transforms into a warm and inviting environment that encourages attendees to linger, explore and enjoy the day.
El Cajon serves as East County’s hub, where local restaurants, retailers and shops help shape a welcoming, community-centered atmosphere. On Small Business Saturday, shoppers can visit El Cajon to support its local economy and neighborhood businesses.
Chula Vista is supporting its small business owners by encouraging shoppers to turn up for its 15th annual Small Business Saturday. South Bay shoppers can stroll 3rd Avenue for some unique items from a variety of small businesses.
