If Black Friday shopping at outlet centers isn’t that tempting to you, head to local businesses for your holiday shopping instead. Besides avoiding the crazy-long lines and early alarms, shopping small businesses in the Hudson Valley is also great because it’s a wonderful way to support regional artisans. Shop local this Small Business Saturday, and you’ll not only conquer your holiday gift list, but you’ll also give back to your community. These Hudson Valley vendors are just a few of the many local shops participating and, this year, the sales are big.
Albany County
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Skip Black Friday in Downtown Albany this year and sleep in on Saturday before shopping small businesses all day. Local and independent retailers come out to offer unique, handcrafted goods that can’t be found in big box stores for specialty sales and prices. Lit snowflakes on light posts and holiday music provide the spirit of the season as you shop and dine at Albany’s small businesses.
Columbia County
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Of course, Hudson’s Warren Street is the place to be come Small Business Saturday. The strip is packed with dozens of local shops selling everything from bespoke candles to thrifted clothes to antiques for the perfect, one-of-a-kind gift this season. Similarly, Basilica Hudson hosts its Farm and Flea Holiday Market beginning on Black Friday and running through Thanksgiving weekend if you’re in the market for handmade presents and locally sourced foods.
Dutchess County
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Start Small Business Saturday by scoring on vinyl. Swing by Darkside Records for surprise discounts and exclusive releases. Spend time walking down Main Street in Beacon for a vast array of small businesses, including King + Curated, Hudson Beach Glass, Zakka Joy, and much more. In Rhinebeck, Market and Montgomery Streets boast boutiques and book shops like Winter Sun & Summer Moon and Oblong Books.
Greene County
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When in Greene County, you won’t want to miss Hort & Pott, a botanical craft and specialty garden store. If you’re a horticulture enthusiast, you’ll love the interesting gifts and décor items this shop has in store. For books and alpine accessories, travel through Windham and stop by destinations like the Catskill Mountain Country Store and Restaurant, Windham Mountain Outfitters, and Briars and Brambles Books.
Orange County
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For a less-crowded experience, head to The Shops at Jones Farm in Cornwall for homegrown produce, seasonal gifts, and art. Then stroll through the Sugar Loaf Shop Small Saturday event for giveaways, refreshments, and locally crafted gifts. If you’re up to it, don’t forget to swing by Kaliada Boutique in Warwick in-person or browse online for specials on gifts, and hit up Angry Orchard in Walden for the cider drinker in your life.
Putnam County
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In Carmel, shopping local is easy and convenient at Promenade on 6, a small business shopping hub and artisanal community. Browse through thrifted clothes, handcrafted jewelry, salon treatments, and other great gifting opportunities. In Cold Spring, make a day out of your small business shopping by strolling down Main Street and browsing whimsical gifts at the Pink Olive, home furnishings at Archipelago, and vintage goods at DamnAged Vintage.
Rensselaer County
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Historic Downtown Troy truly comes alive on Small Business Saturday with delicious dining, deals, and tons of holiday shopping. There is something for everyone among the region’s myriad clothing, antiques, and jewelry vendors. Put your purchase dollars towards the local community and invest in the future of Troy by shopping local.
Rockland County
Instead of checking out just one business in Rockland, head to the Rockland Farm Alliance’s Holiday Market to support over 35 local artisans at the craft fair event. Browse crafts, kitchen products, home décor, woodwork, and more from regional artists at the rain-or-shine market. Admission is free, and the market runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on November 30 at the New City location.
If you’d prefer to browse around town, plan a day trip to Nyack to pop in and out of the shops in search of the perfect presents for the special people in your life.
Ulster County
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Mark the start of the holiday season with a memorable trip to Historic Huguenot Street, but, before you leave, be sure to check out the Museum Shop for local holiday shopping. From stationery to seed kits, the Historic Huguenot Street Museum Shop has plenty of gifts to choose from this season. Also, shop the stores in Saugerties for the town’s annual Small Business Saturday event presented by the Saugerties Chamber of Commerce.
Westchester County
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This holiday season, the Cross County Center in Yonkers goes all out with décor and cheer. While enjoying the ice-skating rink or taking pictures with Santa, grab a bite from one of the local food trucks at the Holiday Food Truck Market, including options like YumBro, Tipsy Taco, and Ray’s Empanadas. While in Westchester County, also make sure to wander the glittering Lyndhurst Mansion at your own pace as you shop a curated makers market for festive treasures.
Related: The Hottest Black Friday Deals in the Hudson Valley
