‘Tis the season to Shop Small! Escondido has come together for its 9th annual Small Business Saturday – this year, on Saturday, Nov. 30 – to promote its historic downtown district. The Escondido Downtown Business Association, City of Escondido and Visit Escondido are working together to provide a full day of shopping with discounts, special offers and prizes.

For every dollar spent at a small business in the U.S., approximately 67 cents stay in the local community. Shopping small on Small Business Saturday – and all year long – makes a big impact on the entire community.

Holiday shoppers are encouraged to take part in a Holiday Bingo Game. Bingo cards with a list and map of more than 26 contributing businesses can be picked up in Heritage Garden Park at the corner of E. Grand and Juniper between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Shoppers can enjoy holiday carolers, festive decorations, art activities, a photo booth, and more.

New this year, organizers are putting in a roller rink! It will launch on Saturday, Nov. 30 – Small Business Saturday.

“Roller skating is very nostalgic for Escondido residents, as many remember the very popular Ups and Downs (skate rink),” said Carol Rogers, board member for the Escondido Downtown Business Association. “The Roller Rink is just another reason to shop and visit downtown Escondido.”

The rink will be open on weekends through the end of the year, and likely extend to each day, during the holidays.

Participating business hours range from 6:30 a.m. to midnight. Early birds can grab breakfast and pick-up a Bingo card and map at Sunny Side Kitchen (155 S Orange St, Escondido, 92025).

Throughout the day, shop, eat, and explore downtown Escondido to discover pop-up artists, special treats, sales, and discounts, while collecting stamps to fill the Bingo cards. Completed Bingo cards will be entered in a drawing for an opportunity to win prize packages donated by participating local businesses. Participating businesses include Hawthorne Country Store, Ginger Road Beauty and Wellness, Daydream Here, The Grand Tea Room, The Photographers Eye Gallery, and the Escondido Art Association, to name a few.

When you Shop Small, you’re not just supporting neighborhood favorites – you’re investing in a community. Because shopping at a family-owned framing spot or buying a handmade ornament from your favorite local artist/small business helps to promote more vibrant communities.

For more information on Small Business Saturday and participating Escondido businesses, please reach out to the Escondido Downtown Business Association at (760) 715-4958.