A longtime tradition is getting up super early on Black Friday to shop at a lifestyle center, strip mall or outlets, but why not wait until Small Business Saturday (Nov. 26) and support the local business owners in your community? You’ll be helping your neighbors and friends by buying their crafts, goods and wares. Check out some great towns in NJ that have plans to advocate for small business owners this holiday season.
Asbury Park
The Grand Arcade of Convention Hall will be filled with holiday spirit starting on Black Friday (Nov. 25) plus every Saturday and Sunday from Nov. 26 – Dec. 18. There is a second part of this festive holiday market that will be held every Sunday at the Asbury Hotel.
Bloomfield Center Holiday Hunt
During this afternoon of holiday cheer, enjoy festive entertainment, giveaways and great local shopping. We’re talking about music, hot cocoa, an ice sculpture and more. Everyone will receive a Bloomfield Center Holiday Hunt Map highlighting various Holiday Hunt destinations. The event includes chances to win cool gift basket prizes from local businesses.
Long Branch
Whitechapel Projects will host an afternoon of music, food and libations, kids’ craft workshops, and a selfie station with the Grinch, Elf on a Shelf and Frosty the Snowman. The market will be open on weekends through Dec. 11.
Millville
Explore original works of pottery and glass art at discounted prices at WheatonArts during this Holiday Studio Sale. Visitors can create personalized gift tags at the complimentary art activity table.
Ocean Grove
This quaint Victorian town is known for its beautiful beach and craft fairs year-round, so it’s no surprise there will be a town-wide shopping spree Nov. 26. Holiday Bell Rings will be on the porch of From Heart to Hearth from 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, and then Sharon “Pipes” Lasher takes over until 3:30 pm at Main Avenue and Pilgrim Pathway.
Rutherford
The American Legion’s pop-up event will be kid-friendly, with multiple vendors, face painting, balloon animals, food, desserts and more.
Somerville
Join the hustle and bustle of Division Street for a full day of sidewalk sales, in-store events, raffles, entertainment, art and more.
Spotswood
Kick off your holiday season shopping at this fall festival and craft show at Immaculate Conception Church.
West Orange
The downtown’s Main Street corridor features four vibrant commercial districts within the neighborhoods: Eagle Rock, Tory Corner, St. Mark’s and the Valley. While strolling the districts, receive a warm welcome from the independently owned businesses, such as bakeries, salons and professional services.
The Wildwoods
Enjoy an outdoor holiday shopping experience at Byrne Plaza in Downtown Wildwood where there will be local artisans and specialty shops, handcrafted items and decorations, baked goods, boutique shops, entertainment and music, raffles and more.
Check out these Christmas markets and winter bazaars for more local shopping!