The holiday shopping season kicked off with Small Business Saturday, two days after Thanksgiving. Locally owned shops on the main streets of Sykesville and Ellicott City saw a rush of shoppers, a much-needed economic lift. Through December various events, from tree lightings to cookie strolls to Santa visits, are being held around the region to attract customers to shop at small businesses, where holiday-related year-end sales are vital, according to the nonprofit groups who support and market them.
The holiday shopping season kicked off with Small Business Saturday, two days after Thanksgiving. Locally owned shops on the main streets of Sykesville and Ellicott City saw a rush of shoppers, a much-needed economic lift. Through December various events, from tree lightings to cookie strolls to Santa visits, are being held around the region to attract customers to shop at small businesses, where holiday-related year-end sales are vital, according to the nonprofit groups who support and market them.