There is something undeniable about the new energy in North Adams! From the activation of historic brick facades along Holden and Main Streets to the independent Eagle Street galleries and cafes to creative maker spaces popping up in our renovated mills, the city’s character doesn’t come from big-box chains—it comes from the local business owners who pour their hearts, time, and creativity into the community.
As we head into the heart of the holiday season, Small Business Saturday on November 28 gives us the perfect opportunity to give back to the independent shops, cafes, and makers that make North Adams so special.
Here are three reasons why keeping your dollars local this weekend makes a massive impact right here at home:
The Wealth Stays in the 413
When you buy from a small, independent business in North Adams, your money doesn’t disappear into a corporate bank account. Instead, an estimated 68 cents of every dollar spent stays right here in our community. It funds local youth sports, maintains our parks, supports local infrastructure, and helps your neighbors thrive.
Unique Finds You Can’t Get Online
North Adams is a city built on creativity and resilience. Shopping small in North Adams, whether on Main Street, on MASS MoCA’s campus, or at Greylock WORKS or Norad Mill, means discovering curated collections, handmade goods, and bespoke items you simply cannot find on a massive e-commerce site. Whether you are hunting for vintage apparel, locally roasted coffee, or art prints from local makers, our local shops offer gifts with real people and real stories behind them.
We Build the Neighborhoods We Love
Think about your favorite morning coffee spot, the bookstore where you can spend an hour browsing, or the local eatery that knows your exact order. These spots provide more than just goods and services; they serve as our community hubs. By choosing to shop small, you are directly investing in the vibrant, walkable neighborhood culture that makes North Adams a fantastic place to live and visit.
How to Participate beyond November 28:
Move a Zoom meeting to a small business: Pick a spot on Main Street, visit Norad Mill, or check out Greylock WORKS and get off your screen for some real face time.
Leave a review & spread the word: Did you have a great experience at a local shop? Take a photo, post it on social media, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review, and encourage your friends to do the same.
Make it a habit: Collective action works! Can you make one recommendation a week to your friends, share a small business’s promotion on your socials, or commit to one coffee a week? No one can do everything, but everyone can do something! Economic development happens when we all do our part.
Are you a small business who wants to promote Small Business Saturday? Look no further—click the button below to download graphics for your socials!
