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Central City Celebrates Small Business Saturday: A Day of Festivities, Local Shopping, and Upcycled Creativity

Last Updated 11/27/2023

Small Business Saturday in Central City was not just a shopping event; it was a celebration of community, creativity, and local spirit. Hosted by the Old Central City Association, the day was filled with activities that not only encouraged holiday shopping but also brought families, businesses, and community organizations, such as Huntington Children's Museum, together for a memorable and festive experience.

Encouraging Local Holiday Shopping

The primary goal of the event was clear—to encourage local holiday shopping. Central City came alive with the buzz of shoppers exploring the unique offerings of small businesses. From charming antique shops to cozy cafes, the streets were adorned with the spirit of the season, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.

Activities with the Huntington Children's Museum

The festivities kicked off at the Gazebo, where the Huntington Children's Museum hosted a variety of activities that awaited eager participants. The Children’s Museum, a hub for creativity and learning, hosted engaging hands-on activities for families to enjoy. The highlight of the day was the launch of the annual upcycled gingerbread house fundraiser, adding a sustainable twist to the holiday tradition.

Upcycled Gingerbread House Fundraiser

In line with the growing emphasis on sustainability, the Huntington Children's Museum introduced an upcycled gingerbread house fundraiser. Families and individuals showcased their environmental consciousness by crafting gingerbread houses from recycled materials. These eco-friendly creations were then dropped off at the Gazebo, where volunteers from the museum collected them for display in Central City’s local shops. Funds raised contribute to the construction of the Children’s Museum and it’s exhibits. The Children's Museum is also looking for business sponsors for specific exhibits. Please reach out to them for more information regarding exhibit sponsorship.

Participants could vote for their favorite house by visiting local shops, scanning QR codes, and expressing their appreciation for the creative and sustainable efforts of their fellow community members. Vote with dollars by scanning the QR code provided with each house at each shop. A list of all shops can be found here!

Open Houses at Local Businesses

To complement the shopping experience, Central City's small businesses opened their doors for special promotions and festive open houses. This provided an opportunity for the community to discover the diverse offerings of local establishments while fostering a sense of connection between residents and business owners.

Santa and Frosty Photo Sessions

Adding a touch of magic to the day, families had the chance to capture timeless moments with Santa and Frosty. The Huntington Children's Museum organized photo sessions, creating memories that would undoubtedly become cherished keepsakes for families in Central City. The presence of these beloved characters added an extra layer of joy and wonder to the festivities. Frosty plans to return to Central City in December to encourage local holiday shopping up until Christmas!

Small Business Saturday in Central City was a remarkable success, bringing together the community, local businesses, and the Huntington Children's Museum in a harmonious celebration of the holiday season. The event not only encouraged local shopping but also highlighted the importance of creativity, sustainability, and community spirit in the heart of Old Central City. We hope you continue to shop and support local all year long!