As the holiday season approaches, shoppers in Denver are encouraged to support local businesses during **Small Business Saturday** on **November 29**. This initiative aims to promote shopping at local establishments rather than large retail chains, fostering community spirit and helping small businesses thrive. With an estimated **$109 billion** expected to be spent at small businesses this holiday season—reflecting a **44 percent** increase from last year—consumers are increasingly choosing to shop intentionally.
In the vibrant **RiNo** district, shoppers can purchase a **$50 passport** that unlocks exclusive offers, discounts, and experiences across bars, restaurants, galleries, shops, hotels, and creative spaces until **December 31**. Passholders earn rewards for every visit, which aids local businesses impacted by ongoing construction in the area. Passes can be picked up at the **Learned Lemur** from **11 a.m. to 4 p.m.** on **November 29**.
For those looking for unique gifts, **City Floral** offers a wide selection of over forty varieties of poinsettias, including the **Winter Rose** and **Ice Punch**. The store will also host a holiday party on **December 6** from **14:00 to 18:00**, featuring festive plants topped with complimentary decorative bows.
Music enthusiasts can visit **Wax Trax**, a renowned Capitol Hill store, which boasts a vast collection of vinyl records, cassette tapes, and CDs. With multiple locations, it provides a meaningful gift option for those who cherish physical music formats.
**Flower Street Farm**, known for its beekeeping products, offers delightful handmade beeswax candles in charming animal shapes, including bears and cats. Their range also includes Colorado honey, soaps, and oils, making it a perfect stop for unique and thoughtful gifts.
For a more eclectic selection, shoppers can explore **Atomic Salvage**, where vintage clothing and handmade jewelry abound. The owner, **Jules Reed**, specializes in distinctive chainmail designs, catering to those interested in Renaissance festivals or dark fantasy themes.
Another interesting option is the **Matchbook Club**, which curates a collection of matchbooks from local restaurants and businesses. This initiative, created by **Tim Lochtefeld**, captures the nostalgia of urban living and provides a unique gift that tells a story.
Art lovers can find inspiration at **ReCreative**, a used art supply store that offers a wide range of affordable materials. With everything from needles and fabric to paint and markers, it allows shoppers to purchase supplies for their own creative projects or gifts.
Lastly, **Casa Bonita** fans can find a variety of holiday-themed merchandise at the **El Mercado**. This includes vintage-style lunch boxes, ugly Christmas sweaters, and even sopaipilla-scented candles, bringing a touch of the iconic venue’s charm into homes.
As the holiday shopping season gets underway, Denver’s local businesses offer an array of unique gifts that reflect the city’s creativity and community spirit. By choosing to shop local this year, individuals not only support the economy but also contribute to the rich tapestry of Denver’s cultural landscape.