Small Business Saturday is held the Saturday after Thanksgiving to help promote the importance of shopping local during this holidays. This year, it falls on Saturday, Nov. 27. Of course, there are many ways to participate and support local retailers — here are several ways you can celebrate Small Business Saturday in the Iowa City area.
Celebrate Small Business Saturday in the Iowa City Area
Attend an Iowa City Area Small Business Saturday Event
- Small Business Saturday in Downtown Iowa City: includes free photos with Santa, wagon rides, and more.
- Small Business Saturday at WineStyles Iowa River Landing: Come visit for hourly specials and giveaways.
- Small Business Saturday in Uptown Marion District: Shoppers receive a free gift (while supplies last) and can be entered to win a $100 Uptown Dollar gift certificate.
- Small Business Saturday at Fireside Winery: Purchases over $10 are eligible for a draw from the mystery sale glass, and specialty cocktail flights are 5 samples for $10
Support Small Businesses Year-Round
Supporting local shouldn’t just be a one-day-a-year event. There are so many ways to support small businesses this holiday season and beyond. Here are four easy ones.
Reduce Your Shopping at Big Box Stores
You don’t need to completely swear off chain retailers — just make a commitment to reduce your holiday shopping at those stores a certain amount in favor of small businesses.
Bring a Friend or Two to Shop Local With You
Bring along a friend to your small business shopping day—two small business shoppers make a bigger impact than one! Also, sharing your favorite businesses with friends on social media is a great way to help increase visibility for shops that deserve it.
Plan for Long-Term Needs
Look to discover a small retailer you can frequent for other shopping and gifting needs throughout the year. Take mental note of places that you can come back to later, even after the holiday season.
Eat and Drink
Visit a local restaurant or coffee shop for a snack or meal break while you are out shopping. Mom-and-Pop cafes need your support, too!
Supporting local businesses has an enormous list of benefits, from the economy to the environment, so seek out ways to shift your shopping habits this holiday season and beyond.
