The gift-giving season is upon us and that means that many of us are busy making our lists and checking them twice. As we shop for that perfect gift for friends and family this holiday season, let’s not forget about the small businesses that make our community special.
This November 30, 2024, is Shop Small – Small Business Saturday in Burlington and across the country. Since 2010, when American Express promoted a “shop local” campaign after the Great Recession, Small Business Saturday has been held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. For many shoppers, this weekend marks the beginning of the chaotic holiday season.
Historical Impact of Shop Small Business Saturday
Since its start, Shop Small has been a financial boon for small and medium-sized retail businesses, shops, and restaurants. In fact, in 2022, consumers “spent an estimated $17.9 billion at independent retailers and restaurants on Small Business Saturday. In 2023, 59% of U.S. consumers who were aware of Small Business Saturday shopped or ate at a small business.” (Source – SBA.gov)
How Can You “Shop Small?”
One of the easiest ways you can help support small businesses during this campaign is to actually get out there and shop the small businesses of Burlington and surrounding communities on November 30th and throughout the year.
This means instead of relying on your online shopping or big box stores for your holiday gifts, consider walking into some of the amazing businesses that line the streets and shopping areas of Burlington, Massachusetts. From tasting the delicious offerings at small coffee shops to eating dinner at a local dining establishment, it all helps support our local economy. It’s a win-win situation, as you get your shopping done with exceptional customer service – at the same time, you promote small businesses in our community.
Burlington Shopping Areas
There are many areas and stand-alone shops to explore this holiday season. Here are just a few areas that you may want to consider as you support your local small businesses.
Middlesex Commons
Located at 43 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, MA, Middlesex Commons boasts easy access to shoppers and more than 3 million square feet of retail space. This shopping center was transformed in 2012 and now holds retail stores such as Market Basket, DSW shoes, Nordstrom Rack, Old Navy, Burlington Wine and Spirits as well as several restaurants such as Burtons Bar and Grill, Chateau Restaurant and Five Guys Burgers.
Burlington Mall
The Burlington Mall, also located on Middlesex Turnpike, offers something for everyone! Anchor stores, Macy’s, Nordstrom, Primark, and Crate & Barrel are just the beginning of what the Burlington Mall has to offer. Name-brand items can be found in many of the stores within the mall such as Aeropostale, Forever 21, Athleta, Coach, J. Crew, J. Jill and so many more.
Additionally, the Burlington Mall is home to many dining establishments for whatever cuisine you are craving. Eateries include Bazille at Nordstrom, Bennett’s Sandwich Shop, Cheesecake Factory, The Common Craft, Fiorella’s Cucina, Fogo de Chao, and Frank Pepe’s to name just a few. For a complete guide to restaurants at the Burlington Mall visit mall dining.
The Village at Burlington Mall
Located on the Burlington Mall campus, you will find The Village which offers several great places to dine such as Sweetgreen, Caffe Nero and Gyu-Kaku for Japanese BBQ. There are also several retail shops focused on self-care and lifestyle services. Check out all that The Village has to offer when you visit the shops at the Burlington Mall.
3rd Ave Burlington
Stroll along the charming boulevard as you discover the fun shops and atmosphere at 3rd Ave in Burlington! The dynamic lineup of retailers and cuisine from around the globe will have you visiting again and again. Choose to visit one of the many restaurants like Tony Cs, The Bancroft or The Redstone American Grill. Then set out to explore the shops such as Twist Bakery or Kings Dining and Entertainment. See the full list of retailers and restaurants on their site.
Crossroads Burlington
Conveniently located off Cambridge Street in Burlington, Crossroads Burlington offers a great mix of retail shops including Target, Total Wine, Michaels, Marshalls and so many more.
Whether you head to the mall or one of the other fantastic shops in Burlington, we thank you in advance for supporting our local businesses this holiday season.