As shoppers prepare for one of the most significant shopping weekends of the year, Michigan’s local businesses are stepping up with a range of events and markets to entice customers during Small Business Saturday.
According to the Michigan Retailers Association, Small Business Saturday had a notable presence last year, ranking as the second highest sales day in the state, right after Black Friday. Despite this, a National Retail Federation survey indicates that only 23% of U.S. adults plan to do their holiday shopping at small businesses this year, compared to 57% who prefer online shopping and various types of large retail outlets.
For consumers eager to support local entrepreneurs this weekend, the Detroit Free Press has compiled a list of special events in Detroit and nearby Berkley designed for Small Business Saturday.
The events include:
**Fantazma Market & Cafe in Corktown and Southwest Detroit:** Featuring over 20 vendors selling clothing, accessories, food, and art, this free event will run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday. There will also be live performances and photo opportunities with Santa. Attendees can enjoy a free shuttle service connecting southwest Detroit with Corktown.
**Holidays on Grand River:** This festive gathering will host a dozen pop-up shops, food trucks, a holiday-themed poetry session, live music, and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. The event runs from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. and offers free admission.
**Shop the Smalls Vendor Marketplace at Detroit Sip:** Here, shoppers can find a variety of local products including clothing, candles, and artwork. The first 75 customers will receive a special voucher. This marketplace operates from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., also free for attendees.
**Coup D’état’s reopening:** The women’s boutique, which recently closed its New Center store, will celebrate its reopening at the Lantern from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., accompanied by live music.
**Small Business Saturday Market at the Congregation:** This market will showcase handmade crafts and artisanal goods at Fellowship Hall from noon to 5 p.m., including bonuses for rewards points at the cafe.
**The Rind’s Artist & Maker Pop-up:** Featuring a curated selection of handmade goods, this event will be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Rind will also operate its own lunch and bar service alongside pop-up offerings from local bakeries.
These events present an invaluable opportunity for consumers to engage with local businesses, and even amid a challenging shopping climate for small retailers, initiatives like these show a commitment to community and creativity. Ultimately, by supporting these local ventures, shoppers not only contribute to the local economy but also gain a unique and personalized shopping experience.
For those looking to explore more shopping options this holiday season, the article highlights several additional destinations and independent bookstores, further encouraging support for local commerce.
In summary, these gatherings not only celebrate the spirit of shopping local but also foster community connections and enjoyment during the holiday season, promising a vibrant Small Business Saturday in Michigan.