What began as a collaboration between the U.S. Small Business Administration and American Express in 2010 has evolved into a nationally recognized movement.
Sandwiched between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, the holiday shopping days when big-box retailers are the primary focus, Small Business Saturday was created to encourage shoppers to send their money within their community, where a majority of it stays. A 2022 study led by American Express found that out of every dollar spent locally, 68 cents stays within that community.
Within the Detroit Region, which is disproportionately impacted by tariffs, small businesses struggling due to increased costs and reduced customer spending need their community to rally around them more than ever. In addition to their contributions to the local economy, small businesses play a vital role in shaping and enriching their communities, and consumer support makes this possible. A 2024 report by the National Federation of Independent Business found that over two-thirds of small businesses contribute to their communities through volunteering their time and contributing financial support.
This holiday season, consider checking off items from your holiday shopping list by supporting local businesses and artisans with the various holiday events and markets throughout the Region. Below is a list of both Small Business Saturday events and seasonal holiday events to choose from.
Participate in the 2025 Small Business Saturday
5th Annual Ypsilanti Artisan Holiday Market
Explore over 40 Ypsilanti-based small businesses, crafters, and nonprofit organizations while enjoying live entertainment throughout the event. Celebrate the season and connect with the vibrant Ypsilanti community. Learn more about the event.
Holidays on Grand River Community Event
Hosted by the Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation, join the annual neighborhood celebration featuring festive activities for all ages, local shopping opportunities, and a community tree lighting. Learn more about the event.
Flint Handmade 18th Annual Holiday Market
Explore over 20 local artisans with unique, modern handmade goods, including permanent vendors and makers, within the indoor farmers’ market at the heart of Vehicle City. Learn more about the event.
Old Western Market’s Small Business Saturday
Sister to the renowned Eastern Market, Old Western Market offers a unique blend of the past and present, providing a space for vendors and customers to connect with Detroit’s history in a vibrant marketplace. For Small Business Saturday, there will be exclusive giveaways, and shoppers can browse artisanal goods, fresh produce, and rotating food truck flavors. Learn more about the event.
Royal Oak’s Small Business Saturday
Support the local businesses in downtown Royal Oak and stroll the city to receive a custom Royal Oak canvas tote bag from one of their participating businesses. Learn more about the event.
Small Business Saturday at Fantazma Market & Cafe
Discover Southwest Detroit and Corktown shopping districts by travelling along these communities via a bus route, with the final stop at Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation and Fantazma Market & Cafe. The family-friendly event will include exclusive shopping experiences, giveaways, and live performances. Learn more about the event.
Southfield Small Business Saturday Social
Support Southfield’s small business community and enjoy an afternoon featuring local vendors, business resource partners, and insightful service provider speakers sharing tools for growth and success. Learn more about the event.
Visit Other Holiday Shopping Experiences
Whether you are planning or need to drop in for last-minute gifts, there are various opportunities to shop and support regional makers beyond Small Business Saturday.
Cadillac Square Market
Open through Jan. 4, 18 local small businesses from across the Detroit Region will bring a mix of retail, gifts, and artisan goods to Cadillac Square, powered by Deck Out Detroit. Enjoy views of the Christmas tree and Skating Rink at Campus Martius. Learn more about this experience.
Detroit Urban Craft Fair
Michigan’s longest-running indie craft fair is returning to the world’s largest Masonic Temple on Dec. 6-7, featuring over 50 artisans. The Detroit Urban Craft Fair’s mission is to elevate handmade goods as an alternative to mass-produced items and to support and elevate small craft businesses. Learn more about the event.
Merry Midtown
As a replacement for the postponed annual Noel Night, small business owners in Midtown Detroit are coming together to host an alternative to their annual family-friendly shopping and dining event. The event will include more than 20 businesses offering discounts, music, and other activities on Dec. 8. Learn more about this event.
3rd Annual Holiday Craft Market at Suburban Showplace Collection
On Dec. 13, over 400 vendors will convene to sell handcrafted goods and unique products at the Suburban Showplace Collection in Novi. The Michigan Makers curates small businesses of all types to host an accessible shopping experience that is enjoyable and memorable for attendees of all ages. Learn more about the event.
Winter at the Station
Make the trek to Michigan Central for the holidays to explore the holiday now through Dec. 28. Enjoy festive decor and the inspiring sounds of local artists, explore hands-on activities, and discover curated local food, drinks, and gifts. Learn more about this experience.
Eastern Market – Holiday Markets
In addition to their year-round Saturday market, Eastern Market has added four additional markets to meet holiday shopping needs in 2025, beginning Nov. 25 and running to Dec. 21. Learn more about the markets.