Small Business Saturday in the Alleghenies
By Sarah Taylor
Small Business Saturday is celebrated annually on the Saturday following Thanksgiving, as a movement dedicated to supporting local small businesses. This year, the event takes place on Nov. 30, marking its 15th anniversary since its introduction in 2010 by American Express.
Initially conceived to aid small businesses struggling during the economic recession, the initiative quickly gained national recognition. Each year, Small Business Saturday reminds consumers of the vital role small businesses play in fostering innovation, creating jobs and sustaining vibrant local economies.
“By choosing to shop small, whether in person or online, you can help sustain the heart of Allegheny communities and uphold the entrepreneurial spirit that defines the region.”
This week, by choosing to shop small, whether in person or online, you can help sustain the heart of Allegheny communities and uphold the entrepreneurial spirit that defines the region.
Come check out some of the great Small Business Saturday events occurring in the Alleghenies!
Small Business Saturday in downtown Bellefonte
Enjoy live music, the popular Shop Small Crawl event and special activities at participating downtown businesses, all while keeping your holiday dollars local. Shop Small Crawl tote bags are given to the first 100 event attendees and participating businesses will then be giving away a free gift with purchase or surprise discounts to all customers who present their tote bags.
Additionally, at The Gamble Mill, 10 am–4 pm, shop for unique, homemade gifts at 16 local vendors in one convenient location, with the venue’s one-day craft market.
Then, after a day of shopping, gather in Talleyrand Park for the second annual Bellefonte Tree Lighting ceremony. Festivities at the gazebo include luminary displays, holiday cookies, warm drinks and more, culminating with the tree lighting at 5:45 p.m.
Learn more about Bellefonte’s Small Business Saturday events or more about The Gamble Mill’s Small Business Saturday events.
Small Business Saturday in Ebensburg
Promoted by: Ebensburg Main Street Partnership
During Ebensburg’s Small Business Saturday, if shoppers spend $50 or more, their name will be entered into the town’s Shop Small Contest, where they have the chance to win a gift card to a small business of their choice.
Learn more about Ebensburg’s Small Business Saturday events.
Shop Small Crawl in Hollidaysburg
Organized by: Lightning Bug Gift Co.
This 6th annual event encourages holiday shoppers to explore local businesses, find unique holiday gifts and support the local economy. Purchase a Shop Small Crawl tote bag for $6 and, when you make a purchase at participating shops, you’ll receive a button. Collect all the buttons for chances to win prizes.
Learn more about Hollidaysburg’s Shop Small Crawl.
Small Business Saturday in Huntingdon County
Event by: Huntingdon County Chamber of Commerce
Shop at any of more than 25 participating businesses on Nov. 30 and fill out an entry slip with your name and phone number for a chance to win a gift basket filled with goodies from local businesses! Participants include Cassville Country Store, Gardners Candies, Juniata Brewing Company, Tastes of Home LLC and others.
Learn more about Huntingdon County’s Small Business Saturday events.
Small Business Saturday Artisan Market in Johnstown
From 10am to 7pm, shop small by supporting local artists at The Bottle Works Small Business Saturday Artisan Market. With a gallery filled with handmade gifts, you’re sure to find something that that special someone on your list will enjoy. Vendors include Hero Works Publishing, Dots of Happiness, Rustic Barn Millwork, Matthew Lamb Art and many others.
Learn more about Johnstown’s Small Business Saturday events.
Small Business Saturday in downtown State College
Sponsored by: Downtown State College Improvement District
Head into downtown State College on November 30th to explore charming boutique shops and the one-of-a-kind eateries that make State College truly unique. While you’re downtown, don’t miss the enchanting Light Up Downtown display at MLK Plaza, shining brightly from 5-10 PM daily!
Learn more about State College’s Small Business Saturday events.
Sign up for The Alleghenies weekly newsletter for more information about Allegheny events and businesses like these. Sarah Taylor is a communications professional studying telecommunications at Penn State University. She can be reached at sarah.st.taylor@gmail.com.
