Shop small this holiday season

The holiday shopping event began back in 2010 as a campaign for American Express. Small Business Saturday is now an important day for local retailers that reminds holiday shoppers to shop small and frequent mom-and-pop stores for Christmas gifts. Both the Patchogue and Bellport chambers of commerce and stores will be participating this year on Nov. 29. 

Patchogue

Patchogue will be kicking off their Small Business Saturday celebration on Saturday, Nov. 29, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

The Greater Patchogue Chamber of Commerce will be handing out a couple hundred giveaway bags with deals and coupons, this year at Underworld Productions, from noon until 3 p.m., or until bags run out. Inside, there will also be free photos with Santa surrounded by a Christmas-decorated set from noon to 3 p.m.

“As the holidays approach, it’s more important than ever to shop small,” said chamber executive director Silvana Aloisio. “We’re fortunate to have a united community filled with small businesses that take pride in our village and help make it so vibrant. I’m looking forward to seeing our downtown come alive with families and visitors enjoying everything Patchogue has to offer.”

BELLPORT VILLAGE

On Saturday, Nov. 29, the Bellport businesses will be featuring exclusive deals, offerings, and refreshments. Back from last year’s success, the Bellport Fire Department will be hosting a holiday craft fair at its headquarters from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Also, the Bellport Chamber of Commerce will be running their annual soup contest featuring local restaurants—a 40-year-plus tradition and the voting is up to you! There is a donation fee of $5. Participants can sample all of the soups from noon to 2 p.m. on the Four Corners of the village.

“Enjoy the soups, [and] shop the quaint village with the best local flare of merchandise available,” said LuAnn Thompson, co-president of the Bellport Chamber. “Shopping in a small village like Bellport will surely put you in the holiday spirit! Find something only you can get from our local shops in your hometown.”

Participating businesses include (but are not limited to): Bellport Arts & Framing, Bellport General, Bellport Jewelers and Rarities, Cornell’s Auction House, Pamela Lerner Home & Design, Bellport Apothecary, Summer Salt, TOLA. and The Silversmith.

“They are among the few of our special shops,” said Thompson, adding, “and we have the best restaurants in such a small village.”