Saturday, November 28, is Small Business Saturday, a good excuse to trade online browsing for an afternoon exploring New Haven’s independent shops and neighborhood businesses. The holiday atmosphere gets an early start with carolers along Chapel Street, an Elm City Elf ice-carving demonstration and family-friendly activities throughout Downtown. Special promotions at participating businesses offer a few extra reasons to shop local.
We caught up with The Shops at Yale team to learn what’s planned for the day, what makes Downtown’s shopping districts special and how visitors can make the most of an afternoon in New Haven.
You’re adding some family-friendly fun to Small Business Saturday this year. What’s planned for November 28?
“From noon to 3 p.m., families can enjoy Connecticut Yuletide Carolers strolling Downtown in Victorian attire, complimentary kettle corn outside Union League Pâtisserie and a holiday craft station next to Water Street Jewelers, with activities for children and hot cider for parents.
From 1 to 3 p.m., a professional ice carver will transform two 300-pound blocks of ice into an Elm City Elf sculpture on Chapel Street outside Union League Pâtisserie.
In the Whitney-Audubon District, nearly 20 storefront windows will feature hand-painted holiday artwork by Elizabeth Taylor. Participating merchants will also offer complimentary reusable tote bags with purchases, while supplies last.
Shoppers can enjoy complimentary gourmet hot cocoa or holiday churros with qualifying purchases, plus two hours of free parking with a same-day purchase of $25 or more at participating retailers and restaurants.
All activities are free and open to the public.”
Small Business Saturday celebrates independent businesses. What makes shopping in the Chapel Street Historic and Whitney-Audubon districts special?
“The people behind the businesses make shopping local in Downtown New Haven special. Our merchants are entrepreneurs who have invested in the community, creating distinctive shops, restaurants and experiences.
The Shops at Yale merchants collectively employ more than 1,000 people, approximately half of whom are New Haven residents.
From boutiques and specialty shops to art galleries, restaurants and cafés, each business offers something different. Visitors can meet owners, hear their stories, receive personalized service and discover something unexpected.
Shopping locally supports these businesses, creates jobs and strengthens New Haven’s economy.”
With so much within walking distance, what makes The Shops at Yale a convenient place to spend an afternoon holiday shopping?
“Everything is within walking distance, from locally owned boutiques and specialty shops to national retailers, galleries and restaurants.
Visitors can take a break for coffee or lunch, stay for dinner or explore nearby cultural attractions, including the Yale University Art Gallery, Yale Center for British Art and Yale Peabody Museum, all free and open to the public.
With parking garages and surface lots throughout the district, visitors can park once and spend the afternoon shopping, dining and exploring. Complimentary parking is also available during select events and in designated lots after hours.”
All Small Business Saturday activities are free and open to the public. Find the complete schedule, participating businesses and holiday promotions on The Shops at Yale holiday calendar.
