Small Business Saturday is almost here! It’s a perfect day to explore Downtown Clayton, enjoy local food and drinks, and celebrate the businesses that make our community special. Over the past year, we’ve showcased and celebrated new businesses as they opened their doors, adding fresh energy and variety to Main Street.
This annual event happens the Saturday after Thanksgiving, bridging from the big national sales events into a day focused on supporting local businesses. Shopping local has a big impact. Every dollar spent tends to stay in the community, supporting jobs, local services, and tax revenue. It’s also a way to help people you know - owners, employees, and neighbors - not just a big chain.
Here’s what you can expect this year:
- Shop, Sip & Support Local
Downtown stores will have special sales and promotions, and restaurants and bars in the Social District will be serving tasty bites and drinks. Take your time strolling downtown, discover something new, and support the local business owners who make Clayton unique.
- Shop Small. Support Local. & Win Big
While you shop, save your receipts and stop by the Downtown Clayton tent between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The Downtown Development Association will raffle two prize baskets filled with gift cards and merchandise from downtown merchants. The more you shop, the more raffle tickets you earn!
- Downtown Puzzle Hunt Challenge
20 puzzle pieces are hidden around Downtown Clayton. Follow @DowntownClaytonNC on Instagram for clues. The first 50 people to find all 20 pieces and stop by the Downtown tent between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. will win Downtown Clayton swag.
Small Business Saturday has a huge impact nationally, too. In 2023 alone, consumers spent about $17 billion at small businesses on this day, according to the Small Business Administration (SBA). That shows just how powerful choosing local can be - not just nationally, but right here in Clayton.
While Small Business Saturday is a special day to celebrate this, supporting local doesn’t stop there. It’s something we can do all year long. With more than 250 businesses downtown, from shops and restaurants to professional services, there’s always something new to explore. Small Business Saturday is a fun way to celebrate our local businesses, check out the newest additions, and enjoy a day in the heart of Clayton.
For more details on events and activities, visit downtownclayton.org.