Discover Downtown Gloversville
- Jennifer Donovan
- 9 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Shop Small, Dream Big: The Importance of Small Business Saturday for Downtown Gloversville

The holiday season is a magical time, marked by twinkling lights, festive cheer, and, of course, shopping! While the allure of major retailers and online deals is strong, there's a day dedicated to reminding us of the heart of our community's economy: Small Business Saturday. This annual event, held the Saturday after Thanksgiving, is more than just a shopping day—it’s a powerful investment in our neighbors and the unique character of places like Downtown Gloversville, New York.
🛍️ The Impact of Shopping Small
Small Business Saturday, a movement founded by American Express in 2010, is a crucial counterpoint to the rush of Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It serves as a designated moment for shoppers to consciously direct their spending to independent, local brick-and-mortar businesses.
Boosts the Local Economy: When you shop small, a significant portion of that money—often over 65 cents of every dollar—stays within the local community. This money recirculates, supporting other local services, hiring local residents, and improving the overall economic health of the area.
Creates and Sustains Jobs: Local businesses are often the largest employers in a community. Your purchases directly help these businesses keep their doors open and their employees working, fueling a cycle of local prosperity.
Maintains Community Character: Small businesses bring unique flavors, products, and services that define a downtown. They are the boutiques, diners, specialty shops, and galleries that prevent our communities from looking like every other city. Supporting them means preserving the one-of-a-kind spirit of Gloversville.

The Glove Theatre is participating in Small Business Saturday, encouraging shoppers to purchase tickets to shows as gifts for loved ones.
💖 Downtown Gloversville: A Historic Heartbeat
Downtown Gloversville, with its historic district and beautifully preserved architecture dating back to its heyday as the nation's glove manufacturing hub, is home to a mix of established and new local enterprises, cultural landmarks like the Glove Theatre, and welcoming public spaces.
A Hub of Culture and History: The historic buildings, many constructed in the Italianate style between 1870 and 1900, offer a charming, distinct backdrop for your shopping experience. From the Gloversville Public Library (a stunning Carnegie building) to the various art galleries and dining spots, downtown is the cultural soul of the city.
The Revitalization Momentum: Gloversville has demonstrated a commitment to its future through initiatives like the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI). Shopping small reinforces this momentum, showing local businesses and investors that the community is actively supporting this rebirth.
Support Dreams: Every purchase in Downtown Gloversville is a direct acknowledgment of the hard work and passion of local entrepreneurs. You are supporting a dream, a family, and a personal investment in the city.

Shop Downtown Gloversville on Nov. 29.
This Small Business Saturday, make a plan to explore the shops and eateries in Gloversville. Seek out a unique gift, enjoy a meal at a local cafe, or simply grab a coffee and take in the historic streetscape. Your decision to #ShopSmall is the engine that drives a thriving downtown, ensuring that Gloversville's vibrant future is built on its rich, local past.
Stay. Play. Explore. Live.
Discover Downtown Gloversville



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