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Shop small: Your guide to supporting Seattle’s local businesses this holiday season

A store manager changing a sign from closed to open

Support small businesses this Small Business Saturday

Small businesses are what makes Seattle’s economy great. They showcase the creative energy, diverse culture, and entrepreneurial drive that makes our city one of a kind. Small Business Saturday, and the holiday season, gives everyone an opportunity to support those businesses and celebrate their contributions to the community.

Small Business Saturday started in 2010 to encourage shoppers to visit and spend money at local shops and restaurants. It falls on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, which is Saturday, November 29 this year. All you have to do is shop at a small business or eat at a local restaurant.

When you spend money at local businesses, you’re not just supporting that business, you’re strengthening our local economy. For every $100 spent at a local small business, the American Independent Business Alliance estimates around $45 is reinvested back into the community. Not to mention, when you spend locally, you’re helping generate 3.5 times more wealth that stays in the neighborhoods and communities these businesses serve.

Ways to support small businesses this weekend and through the holidays:

  • Find local businesses participating in Small Business Saturday through the Small Business Administration’s find a business tool.
  • Spend like it matters. Use the Intentionalist’s directory to find and support local small businesses in Seattle.
  • Shop small, celebrate the season, and make memories at the 30th Annual Magic in the Market. Pike Place Market transforms into a holiday wonderland from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., ending with a holiday tree lighting at 5 p.m.
  • Fill your belly and support local businesses at the C-ID Small Business Saturday Food Walk. Participating businesses will offer special discounts and bites.
  • The Meet the Maker Holiday Market at Little Saigon Creative will showcase local Asian American artists, makers, and emerging entrepreneurs. This free pop-up event offers a festive way to shop small, discover new creators, and support community-rooted businesses in the C-ID.
  • Check out Seattle Restored pop-up shops in Downtown and Lake City. Don’t miss the Holiday Happening at Pacific Place on Saturday, December 13.
  • Explore Seattle’s original neighborhood and shops with free two-hour parking at the Butler Garage for Small Business Saturday. Then join the hunt for the Annual Ornament Scavenger Hunt. From December 1 – 20, one or more unique glass ornament will be hidden in a ground-level store in the neighborhood each day. Visit this website for daily clues.
  • There are many opportunities for shopping and holiday festivities at the West Seattle Hometown Holidays.
  • SEA more with the Visit Seattle Perks Pass. Filled with discounts on local shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Our office is dedicated to helping small businesses grow and thrive. Check out the resources our office provides for small businesses owners.