SPOKANE, Wash. — Every year, the Saturday after Thanksgiving marks a special occasion for small businesses across the nation—Small Business Saturday. This year, as in years past, local businesses in Spokane saw an outpouring of support from residents eager to make a difference by shopping small and supporting their local economy.
Small Business Saturday, which was first introduced by the U.S. Small Business Administration in 2010, is designed to highlight contributions small businesses make to their communities. According to the SBA, since it started, the total reported U.S. spending during Small Business Saturday has exceeded $200 billion.
John Waite, owner of Auntie's Bookstore, Uncle's Games, Puzzles and More, and Merlin's Comics and Games emphasizes the importance of national days like this for drawing attention to local businesses. "People forget, and so a day like this reminds them that, hey, I have to get out and go to these places I love," Waite says.
"We need a lot of businesses in Spokane to succeed if we want to succeed," he adds, reinforcing the idea that local spending helps businesses thrive and, in turn, strengthens the community.
Small Business Saturday is not just about making a purchase—it's about finding one-of-a-kind items that cannot be found at big box retailers.
For Spokane residents like Johanna Heller, the appeal of Small Business Saturday goes beyond just shopping—it’s about supporting neighbors and fostering a sense of community. "They’re your neighbors—that’s what’s fun about it," says Heller. "They’re your friends. They go to school with your kids. The families do. It’s a way to continue to be a great community."
Small Business Saturday in Spokane and across the country is a testament to the power of local commerce. When residents choose to shop locally, a significant portion of that money circulates back into the community, helping to fund local jobs, community projects, and services. "Hopefully, everyone finds that little bit of joy in the holidays," says Waite, echoing the sentiment that Small Business Saturday is about more than just sales—it’s about community, connection, and joy.