Today is Small Business Saturday and shoppers are encouraged to look local for their holiday shopping.

Small Business Saturday was started several years ago by American Express with participation from local chambers of commerce. It has since become a popular avenue for holiday shopping and one of the most important days for local retail.

Perry Chamber of Commerce Director Lynsi Pasutti suggests at least taking a look at local shops before going to the big-box stores, “These businesses are here year-round, they support our community, local sports teams, and donate to area nonprofits. They’re really a part of the vitality of our community, the identity of our community to outsiders, where we want to shop and dine. With Small Business Saturday, it’s just a really an opportunity to showcase that.”

Small Business Saturday is a nationwide movement to inspire area shoppers to purchase from small businesses, especially during the Holiday Season.