Shop Locally in Northborough on Small Business Saturday on Nov. 24

Small Business Saturday is on Nov. 24 this year, two days after Thanksgiving. It is a day for everyone to support the small businesses that their community thrives on.

American Express founded the day in 2010 to help small businesses get exposure during the holiday season, when they might be otherwise overlooked. With retailers buzzing around the holidays, it is important to support local small businesses that rely on their neighbors in order to continue prospering and building the local economy in Northborough.

While officially Small Business Saturday takes place on Nov. 23, Northborough has long hosted a "Holiday Trolley" that was created to focus on shopping locally. This year, however, the trolley is taking some time off due to construction.

However, organizer Kim Reed, manager of the Purple Rose, said, "In lieu of The Holiday Trolley being canceled this year, I would like to invite the residents of Northborough to still come out and support local businesses this holiday season."

Last year, 100 million people nationwide participated in Small Business Saturday by shopping at locally owned stores to help boost the economy and their communities.

Among the businesses participating in small business Saturday are Northborough House of Pizza, Zem Han restaurant and Boost Fitness.

For interesting one-of-a-kind gifts, also consider stopping at The Purple Rose, Lalajava Coffeehouse, PYOP Studio, Epiphany Children's Boutique, Northboro Computers, Brown's TV and Appliance, Craftworks, Once or Twice, Lowe's Variety and Meats, Anthony Andrews Jewelers, Queen Bead and Gifts, Next to New, Trombetta's, New Leaf Salon, Elegant Antiques, Moonstones, Armeno Coffee Roasters, Bigelow Nurseries and Annie's Book Swap.

And while you're out shopping, grab a bite to eat at Tilz Restaurant, Guiseppe's Grille, Romaine's, JJ's Sports Bar, the Celtic Tavern, Yowza! Yogurt Paradise, Yama Zakura, AJ Tomaiolo, Zem Han, Chet's Diner, Festive Breads or the Pickle Haus Deli.

Oh, and you could always pick up your tree at Ellsworth Farm.

You can also “like” Small Business Saturday on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/shopsmall.

Everyone has locally owned businesses in their community, and shopping on Small Business Saturday is the perfect way to give back to the businesses you know and love in your community.

TELL US: What small businesses do you patronize in your town and what makes them great? Share in the comments below.