As people all across the area get ready to celebrate with friends and family on Thanksgiving, some will be turning their attention to saving money and getting a head start on their holiday shopping list.

There are already Black Friday deals from big box stores like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy, but thousands of shoppers are looking at helping out their family, friends, and neighbors.

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Small Business Saturday is back across New York on the Saturday after Thanksgiving November 26th. There are thousands of small businesses that offer amazing items, deals, and products that make for great stocking stuffers and holiday presents.

There are several ways that you, the consumer, can help out the local business near you.

Participate in Small Business Saturday

Avoid the craziness of Black Friday shopping and go out and shop on Saturday, November 26th. Find deals at stores from websites like Shop716.com or Albany.com, and NYCgo.com.

Pledge Your Shopping List to Your Community

This year make a commitment to buy at least half of all your gifts from local small businesses. Things like Jewelry, clothing, and toys make great gifts and are better when you buy them from a local shop.

Share Small Business Content on Social Media

When you do make a purchase, make sure to share it on social media. Use hashtags like #Shoplocal, #ShoplocalNY, #Shoplocal716, #ShoplocalNYC to spread the love to local businesses.

Leave Positive Reviews

Use your digital footprint to leave good reviews of local businesses. Even if you didn't buy anything but had a good experience, leaving an online review helps the small business get more traction and visibility online.

Join the Fun!

Even if you are not in the shopping mood, go out and walk around. Check out some small businesses, talk to the owners and get to know the small businesses that make up your town.

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