Usually, Black Friday is symbolic of the beginning of the holiday shopping season. But, not to be forgotten, is Small Business Saturday, an opportunity for consumers to support their local communities and check off items on their shopping list.
Initially launched by American Express in 2010, Small Business Saturday encourages consumers to shop at one of the 33 million independent businesses that exist in the U.S. In 2011, the Senate passed a resolution officially recognizing the Saturday after Thanksgiving as Small Business Saturday.
Here’s how you can find a small business in your area to support this holiday season.
When is Small Business Saturday 2024?
With a later Thanksgiving, Small Business Saturday barely lands in November this year. The shopping event is Nov. 30, 2024.
How can I find a small business to shop on Google?
If you’d like to buy local or from a small business for your holiday shopping, Google made it a little easier. With a small business filter for search and maps, Google allows shoppers to find products offered online by local retailers that identify as small businesses.
Here’s how it works:
On “search,” look for the “small business” filter when shopping on desktop or mobile, or select the filter on “maps” on mobile when looking for local businesses.
Tap the filter to see products from merchants who identify as small businesses.
How can I find a small business to shop from on Amazon?
Amazon also now has options for finding small stores. With the Amazon Support Small filter, buyers can sift through an assortment of small businesses on the site. You can even turn on further filters, searching specific categories like toys or clothing, or support specific communities like Black-owned or LGBTQ+ owned stores.
How can I find a small business to shop from on Etsy?
Etsy is known for its array of small businesses to choose from. With a variety of products — décor, jewelry and handmade clothing galore — the online marketplace is a community of independent sellers, so you always know you’re supporting small.
It’s simple and straightforward, with a “search” bar right up top. You can also try looking through their “Editor’s Pick” holiday guides, “Very Merry deals” list or their gift finder page, with a category for everyone.
Support small businesses at Etsy
Where to go for Small Business Saturday in Des Moines?
Holiday Market at Mainframe Studios: Mainframe Studios, 900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines, is hosting a Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 30 to celebrate the annual shopping holiday. More than 200 artists will have handcrafted pieces on display and for sale at the nonprofit workspace.
Small Business Saturday in Valley Junction: All shops and restaurants in Valley Junction will be open on Nov. 30, many with extended hours, to celebrate Small Business Saturday this year. Customers are invited to kick the day off by dressing up in a holiday costume for the Running of the Reindeer Fun Run with a chance to win three $100 Valley Junction gift certificates good at any shop in the district. Shop specials are featured on the district’s website.
More:Ready for holiday shopping? Try these Des Moines craft and holiday shopping events
East Village: Head to the East Village in Des Moines to check out the latest T-shirts at Raygun, pick up something for the foodie in your life at Allspice or check out locally made and vintage décor at Porchlight.
Oak Park and Highland Park: In Oak Park and Highland Park you can grab a coffee at The Slow Down or check out an array of vintage and thrift stores. You can even get a little witchy and visit Kays Spiritual Ways.
Ingersoll Avenue: All Des Moines natives know there are plenty of great local food and drink spots along Ingersoll Avenue. But, if you’re looking for unique gifts or the perfect frames, try out Tandem Brick Gallery. Or, head to Crème Bakery for a delicious array of sweets.
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USA TODAY contributed to this report.
Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at [email protected] or follow her on Twitter @VictoriaReynaR.
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