Christine Davis
Executive Director
Carlsbad Village Association 

Black Friday (and Cyber Monday) began with one goal in mind: to help businesses maximize profits. Small Business Saturday, on the other hand, is about more than just the money. Small Business Saturday, the day after Black Friday, is a day dedicated to local participation and elevates the awareness of the good local businesses bring to the community.

Small Business Saturday started as a campaign launched by American Express on Nov. 27, 2010, to help small businesses gain exposure and to inspire consumers to shop within their own communities during the holiday season. The day became official in 2011 and in 2012 American Express amplified the campaign by helping small business owners promote their businesses.

Today, most Americans know what Small Business Saturday is and, of those who participate, nearly all recognize how important the holiday is to their communities. Around 75 percent of Americans say they feel more compelled to support small business as a result of the pandemic, according to a survey from Ware2Go, a UPS-owned company which helps businesses scale their production. And over half of those surveyed say their main reason for shopping small is the benefit to the local economy.

The Carlsbad Village Association (CVA) is gearing up for a spectacular Small Business Saturday celebration in the Village on Nov. 27. Come experience the Village like never before with live music throughout the day while shopping Small Business Saturday specials. Participate in the free gift card giveaway (no purchase necessary) hosted by the Carlsbad Village Association for a chance to win one of over 40 different gift cards to downtown restaurants, Carlsbad wineries and tap rooms. Over $2,500 in gift cards will be given away. You can also count on a bit of local swag to be handed out as well.

The Carlsbad High School Jazz Ensemble will be debuting their holiday musical program with a concert outside the Carlsbad Village Music store. For several years the CHS Jazz Ensemble has helped the downtown businesses kick off the holiday season with their amazing vocals and musical talent and this year they have something special planned for us.

On Saturday, Dec. 4, just one week following Small Business Saturday, the Carlsbad Village Association is hosting its annual Makers Market Holiday Showcase celebrating handcrafted artwork and seasonal products from local artisans, just in time for holiday shopping. Clothing for children and adults, homemade sweets, bath products, canine accessories, plants, ceramics, jewelry, handbags, leather goods, and more. Listen to live, local music on the beach view campus of
St. Michaels-by-the-Sea Church, while finding the most unique and thoughtful holiday gifts imaginable.

For more details on Small Business Saturday and the Makers Market Holiday Showcase, two events designed to support small businesses in Carlsbad, visit www.carlsbad-village.com. And be sure to subscribe to our eNewsletter to be kept up to date on all Carlsbad Village Association events.