Shop ‘til you drop at Augusta Twenty. | Photo by Jenna Carney Photography x Max DiNatale Digital Marketing
Small Business Saturday, an initiative dedicated to celebrating and supporting small and locally-owned businesses + the impact they have in our communities, is on Saturday, Nov. 30.
The day falls between two of the biggest shopping days of the year — Black Friday and Cyber Monday — and has become an annual shopping tradition for many since its establishment by American Express in 2010.
If you’re looking to join in on the festivities this year, check out our list of some of City Editor Danielle + City Editor Stephanie’s favorite small businesses in town — and some extra suggestions from our followers.
Augusta Twenty | Before or after you peruse the home decor, unique gifts, and clothing, you can grab a seasonal drink from the cafe — City Editor Danielle loves the gingersnap latte this time of year.
Page and Post | Another one of City Editor Danielle’s favorite spots, this shop offers stationery, gifts, and prints — like this matchbox art from Greenvillian Karen Schipper that hangs in Danielle’s office.
Poppington’s Gourmet Popcorn | Give the gift of popcorn this holiday season. Choose from seasonal flavors or bring home City Editor Stephanie’s favorite — dill pickle.
Looking for more spots for your shopping spree? Check out these small businesses our followers love:
Sun and Soil Plant Parlor | For the person who is impossible to shop for, this store boasts a wide selection of plants — so there’s something for everyone.
Cottage Grove Gift & Home | This Laurens Road shop carries popular brands like E Newton + Nest Fragrances.
The Rock House Antiques | Shop home decor, original art, and antiques of various styles and price points.
Asked
Asked
How much did consumers spend for Small Business Saturday at retailers and restaurants in the US in 2023?
A. $10 billion B. $15 billion C. $17 billion D. $20 billion
Miracle at Southernside | Wednesday, Nov. 27-Monday, Dec. 23 | Times vary | Southernside Brewing Co. | Free entry | Jingle all the way with seasonal handcrafted cocktails, more sparkle than your grandma‘s tinsel, and special events throughout the month.
United Community Ice on Main | Wednesday, Nov. 27-Monday, Jan. 20 | Times vary | Village Green | $10+ | Hit the ice on this outdoor rink in the heart of downtown.
Disney On Ice presents: “Let’s Dance!” | Wednesday, Nov. 27-Sunday, Dec. 1 | Times vary | Bon Secours Wellness Arena | $20+ | Mickey and his pals are rocking the DJ table and you’re on the guest list.
Thanksgiving Day Potluck | 4-7 p.m. | Magnetic South Brewery Greenville | Free entry | The turkey is provided, so bring your favorite sides for this community meal.
Friday, Nov. 29
Native American Heritage Day | 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. | The Children’s Museum of the Upstate | $0+ | Learn about Native American heritage with special story time + open art activities.
Spoonbill Gallery’s 2024 Holiday Show | Friday, Nov. 29-Saturday, Jan. 4 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m. | Spoonbill Gallery | Free entry | Explore this show of small works and handmade ornaments.
Biltmore’s most magical season as an Annual Passholder
Presented by Biltmore
Soaring to a height of 35 feet, the majestic Banquet Hall Christmas Tree is the centerpiece of the celebration. | Photos provided by Biltmore and AVLtoday.
This holiday season looks a little different for Asheville, but the community continues to celebrate the unwavering spirit of Western North Carolina.
It’s with that spirit in mind Biltmore has reopened for Christmas at Biltmore®to provide a gathering place, and a sense of peace this holiday season.
What we tried
We spent an afternoon wandering through Biltmore House and the grounds while getting some holiday shopping done in Antler Hill Village.
Pro tip: The best way to experience the Biltmore is watching it transform through the seasons, and the Annual Pass makes it easy and more affordable — especially now, when you can save $90 on new Annual Passes for a limited time this season.
What not to miss
Walk through the grand entrance and you’re immediately greeted by sparkling lights, velvet bows, and the smell of pine from the 35ft live Christmas tree in the dining hall. Don’t skip the Conservatory if you’re a fan of poinsettias.
It’s beginning to look feel a lot like Christmas. Arctic air will move into the Upstate and it will feel like the teens this weekend + single digits early next week. Warm up with a seasonal latte from a local coffee shop. (WYFF 4)
Sports
It’s a high-stakes Palmetto Bowl. The committee has spoken and Clemson is ranked No. 12 + Carolina is ranked No. 15 in the latest College Football Playoff ranking. Under the new format this year, the top 12 teams will make it to the postseason.
Number
$1.5 million. That’s how much Greenville City Council approved to upgrade the Service Centers in Southernside and Viola. The funds — in addition to $850,000 previously allocated to this project — will provide space for programming, meetings, tutoring, parties, and other events.
TSA expects 2.9 travelers to pass through its checkpoints today after an estimated 2.8 million were screened yesterday. Get ready to head to Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport with the help of our City Guide.
Try This
You know how awesome your business is, but do our 74,000+ readers? Visit our self-service ad portal to learn how GVLtoday can help connect your business with our local audience — no long-term contract required.
Come as you are, everyone is welcome. | Photo by Comal 864
For the fourth year, Chef Dayna Lee of Comal 864 is organizing a community meal that will serve hundreds of Greenvillians beginning at 2 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.
“Let me make you a plate so we can bond,” Lee says. “Whether you’re here because you need food, because you’re alone for the holiday, or because you’d like to serve, my biggest goal is that we have a space to be together.”
Here’s how you can help:
Donate money — Comal 864 is collecting donations to support passing out community meals + building care packages.
Donate items — Drop off new and gently-used clothes + hygiene products
Volunteer — There are limited spots remaining to assist with clean up.
“Being able to do stuff like this is a huge blessing, and when I see familiar faces come in to help make the day go smoother, it’s like everyone is sparkling with a little glimmer of magic.”
A really good pickleball paddle — it’s rated 4.8 stars and is 62% off for early Black Friday. Notable features include: a larger sweet spot on the paddle + a handle with sweat-wicking ventilation for an anti-slip grip.
Confession time: I’m not a pie person. I know, I know — but Chef Katie Chaney’s apple pie is the only pie I’ve ever eaten willingly on Thanksgiving. It’s always a hit in my house where we have some gluten-free family members.
