While the annual turkey dinner is officially over, the chances that family visitors are still in your house are pretty high, leaving you with the complicated task of finding the proper entertainment for the entirety of the weekend.
Lucky for you, Northern Virginia is home to dozens of boutique shops to visit and pass the time in and this weekend, many are opening their doors with activities, complimentary gifts and discounts for the annual Small Business Saturday celebration on Nov. 30.
Whether you’re looking to show off your neighborhood or purchase the perfect holiday gift at a decent price, here’s where you can go to support local businesses this Saturday.
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Alexandria
In honor of the season of giving, the Old Town Boutique District and Old Town Business organizations will be offering free parking at metered spots all day Saturday, in an effort to make your shopping experience that much easier. In addition to the more than 40 stores participating in this year’s event with in-store activities and promotions, there will also be helpers on King Street, as part of Elf Patrol Every Saturday this month, bringing prizes from Old Town Boutique District member stores.
Not the best at wrapping presents? No worries, there will be a complimentary gift-wrapping station outside of Izalia Spa on Black Friday, Small Business Saturday and Giving Tuesday. Alexandria is also inviting shoppers to participate in its inaugural Small Business Saturday Scavenger Hunt starting at 11 a.m. As you shop and dine in select organizations of Old Town and Del Ray, you’ll get your map stamped (if you visit at least 10 stores) for the chance to win a grand prize by day’s end.
From raffle drawings at beauty boutique Bellacara to local author meet-and-greets at Old Town Books, there’s something for everyone.
Vienna
Come Saturday, about 30 stores in Vienna will be participating in the annual day-long event with one-time offers, discounts of up to 50% and a few in-store activities. A few offerings of the day include a limited-time spa package from Alya Salon and Spa, 20% off all Christmas and custom florals at Posh!, Inc. and a buy-one-get-one deal from Inca Social.
Middleburg
Along the 1-mile stretch of Middleburg’s historic district, you’ll find dozens of locally owned stores, including clothing boutiques, art galleries and equestrian shops specific to the area. This Saturday, bring the entire family along for a day of shopping and dining at local sites, as many are offering complimentary holiday treats, as well as day-long discounts.
If little ones come along, be sure to stop by the Salamander Resort & Spa from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for brunch with Santa. Plus, the entire city is decorated with lights for the season, so no matter what you end up bringing home, it’s an ideal day trip all ages can enjoy.
