Updated for 2023
Small Business Saturday, which started in 2010, is an annual shopping tradition dedicated to supporting small businesses and celebrating local communities across the country. Small Business Saturday is celebrated every year on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. This year, you can get out and support the places you love with the people you love on November 25, 2023.
So, why shop Small Business Saturday?
- All the money you spend goes directly back into the local economy, from the local taxes and the rent to the hourly wages for employees.
- You’re helping to make the neighborhood a better place, which in turn makes Des Moines a better place.
- It keeps the local infrastructure unique. Des Moines draws people in from all over, because it doesn’t look or feel like a carbon copy of the rest of the country. Our local businesses are an important part of that.
- You’ll find unique, quality gifts and goods curated by people who truly care about what they’re selling.
- It’s fun!
If you’re having trouble coming up with where to shop on Small Business Saturday in the Des Moines area, we’re here to help. These five Des Moines neighborhoods are bursting with small businesses and make shopping on Small Business Saturday easy peasy.
Beaverdale
A walk around this charming Des Moines neighborhood will provide you with several unique places to shop. From the incredible book selection at Beaverdale Books and men’s fashion at The Back Room to handmade candies at Beaverdale Confections, you are sure to find something for even the hardest person to shop for on your list.
Where to take a break, and get a treat: Grounds for Celebration will provide you a warm beverage to keep you shopping on a cool November afternoon.
East Village
Take a stroll around the East Village and you may never want to leave. With close to 60 small businesses, you’re sure to cross a few people off your list. The runners and athletes in your family will appreciate Fleet Feet Sports. Mini fashionistas will adore Leona Ruby and you can find holiday cards, invitations and other gifts at the Ephemera.
Where to take a break, and get a treat: Scenic Route Bakery is a great place to kick off a day of shopping with a hearty breakfast or take a leisurely lunch break.
Roosevelt Cultural District
This quaint shopping area is located near the Drake Campus on the western edge of Downtown Des Moines. The area boasts several shops that will be sure to check some lucky folks off your holiday lists. The Cheese Shop is a surefire way to delight any foodie. Also, don’t forget that the Des Moines Art Center has a great gift shop where you can find unique items for any art lover.
Where to take a break, and get a treat: La Mie Bakery and the Juice Company will make your day delicious.
Valley Junction
This picturesque neighborhood in West Des Moines is home to over 150 specialty shops and restaurants. A couple of our favs include Hinge and Bing’s. You can also keep the kids busy and entertained a creative craft spots like Five Monkey’s Inc. Valley Junction also hosts an annual Small Business Saturday event.
Where to take a break, and get a treat: There are many places to pop in and grab a snack, but if it’s Caturday… Coffee Cats Cafe is a must stop!
Uptown Ankeny
Shopping locally is easy in Uptown Ankeny. Be sure to check out antique and home décor shops Dept. R and Real Deal’s for some truly unique gifts. Uptown Ankeny typically kicks off their holiday season a little early with a Champagne and Mistletoe event early in November. Attendees will enjoy holiday open houses, shopping specials, Christmas music and more.
Where to take a break, and get a treat: If you’re looking for a caffeine fix Porchlight Coffeehouse should do the trick and their Mini Donuts, served warm and dusted with your choice of cinnamon sugar, apple cider or salted caramel sugar are sure to make your belly happy.
Where’s your favorite place to shop on Small Business Saturday in the Des Moines area? We want to hear!
