As the holiday shopping season kicks into full gear this week, shopping locally takes on even more importance for small businesses trying to survive during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Across the country, local retailers will be celebrating Small Business Saturday on November 28, with many offering online specials and curbside pickup or delivery. Shoppers can find local stores near them by entering their city or zip code in the American Express Shop Small business map locator.
Forty-five percent of the dollars spent at local, independent shops stay in the local economy, compared to 17 percent of purchases made at chain stores, according to KC Source Link, the sponsor of ShopLocalKC. If just 10 percent of people shifted their spending from chains to local businesses, it could bring an additional $235-million per year to that community’s economy.
Here are a few special events featuring local makers, artists and fair-trade creators in Kansas City, MO. Check websites for any scheduling updates due to COVID-19.
Brookside Small Business Saturday
Saturday, November 30: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Strawberry Swing Indie Craft Fair
November 28 – 29 and December 5-6, 12-13, 19-20: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, December 1: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Union Station, 30 W. Pershing Road
Shoppers will be limited to one-hour and must wear a face mask at these open-air events. There is an admission fee.
Waldo Small Business Shopping Crawl
Saturday, November 30: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.