Business owners are hoping it's a holly jolly Christmas, and what better way to attract shoppers downtown than an old fashioned parade like the one held in Collingswood, N.J. Saturday.
It was also Small Business Saturday, and local residents and visitors were urged to visit the local shops and businesses in their communities.
"I know the families here and as new people come in, I get to know them, because they come back because we do personalized service here," said Laurie Gohen from the Candy Jar.
"They need to come and see what we have because our prices are very good," said Trish O'Donnell of McGarry's Jewelry. "We definitely take care of our customers. We're a small family, and we're an all family business."
Kathy Pascale came to the parade and decided to patronize one of the local shops.
"That's what keeps these small towns alive, the businesses," said Kathy.
As a special gift from Collingwood, shoppers were treated to free parking; a gift that will keep on giving throughout the holiday season.
"We are expecting 89 million people to be out here shopping at small businesses today," said Mary Ann Fitzmaurice Reilly, American Express Company.
In Manayunk, businesses were taking part in discounts and giveaways in conjunction with American Express Company.
And Mother Nature provided a beautiful day to shop.
"Support the little shop owner. I appreciate the service you get at a small place," says Debbie Maine.
"I really try to go to closer places and avoid the chaos of the malls," said Betsy Braker.
Peter Trosini says he's shopped online for years, but not this year.
"With the economy being what it is, I thought this would be a great opportunity to get out and support some small businesses," Paul said.
Small Business Saturday is sandwiched between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and small business owners are hoping that a lot of shoppers feel the same way.
