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As our local economy continues to grow each year, I get excited to see more and more independent businesses participate in Small
Business Saturday which kicks off tomorrow, November 26th. This year marks Baltimore’s 12th annual
Miracle on Main Street celebration, And, on the heels of a rewarding Thanksgiving holiday, another way that I enjoy supporting our community is by choosing to shop small!
It’s
become my family tradition to bundle up, and start our Saturday with a delicious pastry from the nearest mom-and-pop bakery and a hot cup of coffee, while venturing through our City’s many neighborhood
shops for great gift-finding and socializing with local vendors and restaurateurs.
From Hoehn’s Bakery in Highlandtown to
the artisanal street market in Waverly; I love catching up with new and long-time friends in the vibrant atmosphere, listening to start-up stories, and learning about the inspiration behind proudly Baltimore goods and one-of-a-kind shopping experiences.
We know that small businesses represent the vast majority of jobs in our country, and many of our neighborhoods are anchored by local entrepreneurs who generate economic benefits from community reinvestment to job creation. To that end, the impact of patronizing neighborhood boutiques, markets, restaurants and specialty shops can be more than a great find, because every dollar spent directly supports our local economy which generates resources that help make our city better for everyone.
The
Main Streets program, which is managed
by the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC), works with Baltimore's
communities
to revitalize their commercial districts, and has become the highest grossing seasonal shopping day for independent retailers.
Tomorrow, each of the BDC's nine Main
Streets will feature family-friendly events throughout the day and
festive shopping opportunities in Belair-Edison,
East Monument Street, Federal Hill, Fells Point, Hamilton-Lauraville, Highlandtown, Pennsylvania Avenue, Pigtown and
Waverly.
Starting today through Sunday, November 27th, you can enjoy two
hours of free parking on Main Streets as an incentive to shop small and discover neighborhood treasures and dining options around town, as you enjoy your holiday shopping.
The 4th Annual Christmas
Village also returns today, and will transform the Inner Harbor into a
traditional German Christmas market featuring more than a 50 vendors selling
seasonal holiday gifts, ornaments, jewelry, and high quality arts and crafts
from all over the world.
Follow this
link for a preview of events, and from one insider to another, plan an early start to enjoy the best perks and giveaways with your families and friends!
Sincerely,
Stephanie Rawlings-Blake
Mayor
City of Baltimore
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