Small Business Saturday

Small Business Saturday, an all-day event set for Nov. 25 encourages people from all over the city and beyond to come downtown and support local small businesses. Many of the businesses will host in-store promotions and specials exclusive to the event.

Back for the 2^nd year: the Grinch will be walking around from 12pm-2pm and handing out over 100 downtown gift cards totaling more than $1,000. If he stops you, pick an envelope and it will contain a gift card from $5-$20.

Gift card giveaway is graciously sponsored by Downtown BID #1 and Downtown Racine Corporation.

“Just like the Grinch, all our hearts grow three sizes during the holiday season!  We hope our residents and visitors take advantage of Small Business Saturday and spread some of that love on our hardworking local businesses,” stated Kelly Kruse, DRC executive director.

Historic and Hip Downtown Racine is home to over 100 small businesses, managed and owned by Racine entrepreneurs. It has expansive ethnic restaurants, museums, and diverse boutiques & galleries.

“We believe that having the Grinch hand out downtown gift cards will be a fun activity for all ages and will have a positive impact on downtown businesses,” stated Andrew Dodge, BID chairman.

There will be free meter parking all day during Small Business Saturday. Please note, parking time limits will be enforced via tire marking to ensure the turnover of spaces. Most meters downtown are currently four hours. The free parking excludes all ramps with gates and the Lakefront Lot.

Having successful small businesses in Downtown is crucial to our community. In fact, $0.67 of every dollar stays in the community as compared to shopping at national chains.

Small Business Saturday is proudly backed by American Express, who provides marketing materials and swag for the event.