For more than 15 years, the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce has proudly championed Small Business Saturday, encouraging residents and visitors to support the independent businesses that form the backbone of our local economy. As one of the nation's oldest chambers of commerce, the organization embraced the movement from its early years, recognizing that every dollar spent locally helps create jobs, strengthen communities, and sustain the unique character of the Southern Ocean County region. This year, on Saturday, November 28, shoppers will find plenty of opportunities to explore local businesses, attend community events, discover unique gifts, and enjoy holiday festivities throughout Long Beach Island and Southern Ocean County.

Dedicate this day to shopping local.  Small Business Saturday was created to celebrate the entrepreneurs, family-owned businesses, artists, makers, restaurants, and service providers that enrich our communities. While national retailers dominate Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday encourages consumers to think locally and invest in businesses that give back year-round through sponsorships and community support. From holiday markets to local boutiques, restaurants, and specialty shops, finish off your list locally. 

Celebrate Shop Small Saturday by exploring the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce’s local shopping directory and finding thoughtful holiday gifts while supporting the small businesses that make our community special. Some great stops along our many main streets include Max's Craft Market Shop Small event in Manahawkin, at the Long Beach Island Foundation of the Arts & Sciences (LBIF) in Loveladies. As part of the LBIF Holiday Market Festival, shoppers can enjoy a special one-day Small Business Saturday celebration featuring artists, makers, local businesses, food vendors, live music, festive beverages, and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with photos from noon to 3pm. Head North to Shop, Sip & Smile! Join Ann Coen Photography for mini sessions in the courtyard, browse new artwork, and enjoy shopping and sipping at Sales at North in Barnegat Light. Open 10 AM-7 PM. Make time for a curated, old fashioned toy shop at the Hay Market in Ship Bottom. 

 In addition to shopping the beautifully appointed Shops at Reynolds on Bay Avenue in Manahawkin with 20 percent off full priced merchandise in the entire store, you can make history by participating in the First Annual Reynolds Family Foundation Reindeer Run beginning at 9am at Veteran's Bicentennial Park in Beach Haven with a Fun Run and 5K. Stop into Surflight Theatre for full calendar of Holiday Inn, which kicks off its production on Shop Small Saturday with 2pm and 730pm performances, also consider NYE Bubbly Bash tickets perfect for gift giving and plan making. Make the most of restaurant specials, gift cards bonuses and book that holiday party with special package offers such as The Terrace Tavern in Brant Beach.

The merriest season has just begun, and as the chamber winds down its 112th continuous year of service, we are proud to release our latest Holiday Gift Guide for ideas, inspiration and support of the business community that is a true gift.

Follow @southernoceanchamber and @LBIregion and load up on the latest updates, holiday specials and events on our community calendar.