Holiday Spirit Shines Bright in North Augusta
The charming city of North Augusta came alive on November 30th as residents dove headfirst into the holiday spirit with the annual Small Business Saturday celebration. With only 25 days left until Christmas, shops and streets were bustling as shoppers sought out unique gifts while supporting their local merchants.
The Tinseltown Forest Extravaganza
This year, the event was extra special thanks to the Tinseltown Forest at Jackson Square, organized by North Augusta Forward. The community came together not just to shop but to create a festive atmosphere filled with joy and anticipation. Families flocked to the area, where they could find everything from fir trees and wreaths to delicious treats like roasted marshmallows and homemade caramel apples.
The buzz around Tinseltown Forest was palpable as local businesses set up their pop-up shops, each offering a unique twist on holiday shopping. Tia Harville, owner of The Grove, brought her delightful array of bright hard candies and gourmet chocolates to share the sweetness of the season.
Shop Local, Feel Good
At the heart of Saturday’s events was the message of supporting local businesses. Jenny Elliott, owner of Shoppe 3130, noted, “Small Business Saturday is a big deal for us; it really makes a difference.” This was echoed throughout the day, as merchants reported a steady stream of customers eager to shop small and make a significant impact on the local economy. Elliott shared that this day is the second most important of the year for her shop, following the frenzy of Black Friday.
Shoppers like Lance, who traveled from nearby Columbia, were thrilled to discover Orange Otter Toy Store, the only dedicated toy store in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). He expressed excitement over popping in after grabbing a bite at a local restaurant. “We love supporting small shops and finding unique items,” he said, a sentiment shared by many who strolled in and out of the eclectic stores lining Georgia Avenue.
Creativity in the Community
The festival spirit wasn’t just about shopping—it was also about creativity and community connection. Local artists were invited to showcase their work, adding an artistic flair to the festivities. Elliott’s shop featured local artists creating one-of-a-kind pieces, ensuring that shoppers found something distinctive that big box retailers couldn’t offer. “It’s all about bringing something special to our customers,” she explained.
Nearby at Orange Otter, the store buzzed with excitement over new toys like a cool remote-control lizard that can climb walls and the whimsical Jack-in-the-box. Madison Thompson, behind the counter, highlighted the importance of offering items that spark joy and imagination. “We want to provide quality gifts that make the holidays memorable,” she said.
Community Comes Together
As the day progressed, the sound of live music filled the air, providing a festive soundtrack to the shopping experience. Santa was set to arrive at noon, and the anticipation of his visit only added to the joyful atmosphere. Families gathered, children giggled, and the smell of donuts and hot cocoa wafted through the square, creating the perfect holiday scene.
As she shopped alongside her mother and daughter, Sara Frank expressed her excitement about the growing array of shops in North Augusta. “Getting out every Saturday after Thanksgiving has become our family tradition. It’s so fun to explore!” she exclaimed.
A Nationwide Movement
According to reports, Small Business Saturday brought in nearly $17 billion in sales nationwide last year, a testament to the collective effort to support local businesses. This movement began in 2010, initiated by American Express, and has since become an essential part of the holiday shopping landscape.
Ralph Porter, chair of the Business Development Council for the local chamber, remarked, “Small Business Saturday is our way as a community to say thank you through our patronage.” As families hustled from store to store, it was clear that this spirit of gratitude and support was alive and well in North Augusta.
Keep Shopping Small!
The success of Small Business Saturday in North Augusta sets a hopeful tone for the holidays, reminding everyone of the impact they can make by supporting their local shops. As residents continue to fill their shopping bags with unique finds, the city stands as a shining example of community unity and festive cheer. So, the next time you’re out and about, remember: shop local, support your community, and spread some holiday joy!
