by Rina Rien, Director, Casa Grande Main Street
Sandwiched in between the barrage of “Black Friday” and “Cyber Monday” holiday promotions is a little thing called “Small Business Saturday.” On Thanksgiving weekend, when the official shopping season is supposed to begin, this quiet little event takes place. Unfortunately, one day does not a season make, particularly when small businesses, just like major retailers, count on the season sales to survive the rest of the year.
Why not opt out of website security breaches and mall madness this season while discovering a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind shops and gifts? Here, local artisans and mom and pop shops offer uniquely crafted treasures for all tastes and price ranges. Our downtown is pedestrian friendly, and you won’t have to find a new parking space to go from one store to the next. How about a gift certificate for wellness classes or a spa day? Maybe your preference is a romantic dinner and tickets for live music, theatre or dancing at one of a variety of entertainment venues?
As the year draws to a close, don’t forget we’ll be celebrating the season on Saturday, Dec. 2 with Winter Wonderland and The Electric Light Parade. Historic Florence Street will be hosting Santa, live music and activities during the day and is the best spot to set up your chair for a great view of the twinkling floats that evening.
Mark your calendar now for our 18th Annual Street Fair and Car Show on Jan. 20-21. Day Out Downtown (third Thursdays, except January) will be dark as we prepare to welcome crowds from all over the region. Hundreds of exhibitors from all over the Southwest will be lining up to offer one-of-a-kind arts and crafts. Be sure to check our website or contact our office for the latest update on available exhibition spaces, car show applications and volunteer opportunities.
Casa Grande Main Street is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization advocating downtown revitalization and historic preservation. Visit our website at cgmainstreet.org for more information on our mission, memberships and upcoming events. Click on our Facebook link to stay connected and “like” our page for ongoing announcements.
