While the best Black Friday deals drive shoppers toward big box stores and national chains, Small Business Saturday turns the deal-hunters to smaller, locally-owned businesses for their holiday gifts.
Started in 2010 by American Express to support small business, Small Business Saturday is celebrated the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Consumers are urged to shop and eat at independent retailers and restaurants. This year, Small Business Saturday celebrates 12 years of supporting local merchants.
Curious what local eateries and stores are doing for Small Business Saturday? Here are some highlights in Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties. Did we forget anyone? Let us know in the comments. We’d love to add even more cities to the list!
Note: Due to COVID-19, many shops are requiring masks and social distancing. When you head out, be sure to be courteous and follow the safety protocols. Check with the stores in your community for online shopping options.
Macomb County
Shoppers have the chance to win one of 10 $150 gift cards for shopping Small Business Saturday. There are more than 1,600 small businesses in Macomb County.
Shoppers who take a picture of themselves shopping small online or eating at a community restaurant in Macomb County and post it online between Nov. 18 and Dec. 5, 2021, could win one of the gift cards.
Winners will be randomly selected during a live Facebook drawing at noon on Monday, Dec. 6. Look for special deals and events at local shops, too!
Oakland County
Genisys Credit Union, Main Street Oakland County and Oakland County Economic Development urge families to get out and enjoy the many community events happening to support small businesses in the county.
Each community and downtown area have different deals and special activities happening throughout the day.
Holly Days in Farmington will bring you together with some of your favorite costumed characters in the storefronts. Ferndale offers a city-wide scavenger hunt and giveaways and Franklin has merchant coupons galore.
Check with your city to find out what’s happening near you.
Wayne County
The City of Wayne offers a virtual Small Business Saturday. Tune in a week before the event for featured businesses and virtual visits of local shops. The day-of offers a Shopathon — to participate, get a stamp sheet from a participating business, shop downtown Wayne to get your stamps and submit yours to the Wayne Historical Museum by Dec. 16, 2021, for your shot at a prize.
Over in Detroit, many locally-owned businesses are offering fantastic deals to those who are shopping small on Small Business Saturday. Check out the full list of participating shops here.
Be sure to swing by Hamtramck for even more deals and special events — search your favorite shopping district for even more ideas.
Washtenaw County
The Dexter Chamber of Commerce is encouraging shoppers to stay local and get your holiday gifts on Small Business Saturday. Saline Main Street is encouraging locals to head down on Small Business Saturday to support local shops like Cobblestone Rose, Rock Paper Scissors and others. Check their website for sales and special events.
Be sure to check out the shops in Ann Arbor for special events and sales, too.
This post is updated annually.
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