Support local businesses this holiday season

As we approach the holiday season, it’s a wonderful time to reflect on the importance of supporting our local businesses. Small Business Saturday, which falls on Nov. 25, this year, serves as a poignant reminder to embrace the spirit of community and contribute to the success of our local entrepreneurs.

Brookings is fortunate to have a vibrant community of small businesses that contribute to its unique character and charm.

These establishments are run by our friends, neighbors, and fellow community members who pour their passion and hard work into creating exceptional products and services.

The choices we make as consumers have a direct effect on the vitality of our community. We encourage residents to consciously choose local businesses for their holiday shopping needs. By doing so, we not only find one-of-a-kind gifts but also play a crucial role in fostering the economic growth of Brookings. Every purchase made at a local business is an investment in the prosperity of our town. Small businesses are the backbone of our community.

To encourage and celebrate the significance of supporting local businesses, Brookings economic development partners have created programs and events to get people tapped into our community. Downtown Brookings encourages you to shop small on Small Business Saturday (11/25), attend the Festival of Lights (12/1), and visit the neighborhood for open houses and shopping throughout the entire season. The Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce has introduced the S.H.O.P (Shop Here On Purpose) program to spur local spending for a chance to win big bucks. Brookings Economic Development is supporting our youngest entrepreneurs with a Kidprenueur Market in conjunction with the Dacotah Bank Center Merry Marketplace event on Dec. 15-16.

You can learn about many vendor shopping opportunities, Santa sightings, and small business-led events by visiting a robust community calendar on the Visit Brookings website.

So, this Small Business Saturday and throughout the entire holiday season, let’s unite in support of our local businesses and make a lasting difference in the place we call home.

Kirsten Gjesdal, executive director, Downtown Brookings

Tim Reed, chief economic development officer & CEO, Brookings Economic Development Corp.

Kelsey Doom-Bjornestad, president & CEO, Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce

Laura Schoen-Carbonneau, executive director, Visit Brookings