Small Business Saturday will culminate with the annual tree lighting at City Hall November 30
Black Friday is the official kick off to the holiday shopping season, but Small Business Saturday is growing in popularity as more consumers seek unique, local items for their gift giving needs. Milford will kick off Small Business Saturday on November 30 with specials at downtown businesses and the arrival of Santa around 11 AM.
“This is when Milford shows its holiday spirit,” Sara LeBright, Executive Director of Downtown Milford Inc., who sponsors the Santa House downtown, said. “Santa arrives followed by fire trucks from Carlisle Fire Company. Children and families line up at the door early after visiting some of our downtown businesses so they can whisper their wishes in Santa’s ear.”
All day, businesses will be offering discounts and specials, encouraging shoppers to purchase locally. The event began as a push by American Express to encourage local shopping during the holiday season and has grown to be a national phenomenon. Many visitors on that Saturday say they head to the mall on Black Friday, then spend Saturday shopping locally. The day culminates with the annual lighting of the tree in front of City Hall. This year’ that event has grown as well.
“DMI’s new multicultural committee has added a few things to the celebration this year,” Neyda Albarran, chair of the committee, who partnered with the city on the event this year, said. “We will have other religions and cultures represented, including a menorah and a kinara. We will also celebrate other cultures throughout the evening.”
There will be caroling and events for children prior to the tree lighting as well. The city is encouraging everyone to arrive by 4:30 PM to enjoy free snacks, children’s activities and more. The ceremony will run from 4:55 to 6 PM. The entire event will take place in front of City Hall.
“There will also be characters walking around so families can get photos,” Albarran said. “We have the Grinch, a gingerbread man and others to keep the children entertained. Of course, Santa will be there and we have a few “selfie stations” for people to enjoy, thanks to the Milford Public Library.”
For more information, contact the City of Milford at 302-422-6616.
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