Waltham Local First

by Aravinda Ananda
Waltham Local First Co-Founder & Treasurer

The holiday shopping season is upon us! Surely everyone knows about Black Friday when major retailers offer blockbuster sales. But does everyone know about Small Business Saturday? It is happening this year on November 26 and is a day to show some love to some of the many wonderful small, local businesses right here in Waltham that offer some unique finds and excellent gifts for the holiday season.

Launched in November 2010 by American Express, the following year the U.S. Senate unanimously passed a resolution of support for Small Business Saturday. Shopping at small businesses provides a huge boost to local economies.

Hot off the presses, Waltham Local First, Waltham’s local and independent business network has just published its third annual printed member Directory. It features over 100 local and independent businesses right here in Waltham. Pick up a new Directory with updated membership today at City Hall, the library, or one of the many member businesses around town.

The Directory features a map with modern and historical Waltham neighborhoods . Visit Moody Street for unique gifts from Gourmet Pottery, jewelry from Monique Rancourt Artisan Gallery or Marcou Jewelers, a book from More than Words, or a gift certificate for ice cream at Lizzy’s or to one of the many excellent local restaurants on Moody Street – Bistro 781, Charcoal Guido’s, Guanachapi’s, Heidi’s, Joco’s, Little India, Playmakers, Red Bird, Santa Banta, Solea, or the The Gaff – just to name a few! Or take a trip over toward Bear Hill for some house wares at Darby Road or Ramble Market. Whatever you are looking for, there is a good chance you can find something great right here in Waltham.

If you’re looking for parking, page 45 in the 2017 Directory lists the number of parking spaces in the Central Square and Moody Street areas, or study the map pictured here (click the map for the full-sized and printable version) for parking lot locations and the schedule for the free Tick Tock Trolley that runs Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 6:00-11:00 PM.

When you shop locally, not only are you likely to receive excellent service and products, but it returns on average 30 cents or more of every dollar spent to the local economy. That can provide a huge boost to the local economy, whereas most money spent at national chains leaves the community forever.

This holiday season, think local first and shop local first. Shop at small, local businesses on Saturday, November 26, and every day of the year.