St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman and his wife, Connie, kicked off a "buy local" program this morning at Victoria Crossing on Grand Avenue.
They're urging folks to skip the big malls and frequent local retailers in the city.
The local promotion is led by the Twin Cities Metro Independent Business Alliance.
Said Coleman:
"Our local businesses are the foundation of our economy, and it is essential we support them, particularly during the busy holiday shopping season. Retailers across St. Paul are diverse, unique and affordable. It has never been easier for St. Paul residents to support local businesses and I urge residents do so in the coming weeks."
And Connie Coleman said:
"Whether you’re visiting Garden of Eden for some bath and body care products or shopping at Eclipse Records for some vintage vinyl, St. Paul’s wide-ranging selection of stores and shops has something for everyone."
And the city is backing a big push to shop Nov. 24 at University Avenue merchants along the Central Corridor light rail line, where construction has created headaches for many small businesses.
The promotion is called "Go Green Saturday," because the light rail line will be called the Green Line when it begins running between St. Paul and Minneapolis next year.
That day along the rail line there will be attractions like hayrides, carolers, kids’ games, and activities such as face painting, balloon animals, hot cider and hot chocolate, music and games.