On two separate Saturdays in November, downtown Newton was bustling — sidewalks were busy with people walking from store to store, parking spaces were full and a sense of community pride was felt as you passed through the heart of our downtown.
Thanks to events like the downtown retail open house and shop small, more people have realized the opportunities we have to impact our local economy. For some, it was a surprise to learn about the variety of shopping experiences downtown. For others, it was a chance to purchase unique items without a commute and an impossible crowd.
While the number of people shopping here haven’t been as generous on weekends without special events, steady traffic at our local stores this season has been uplifting. We know thriving businesses in our downtown attract new business owners. Our support is essential.
Our downtown merchants have reminded us that traditional Christmas shopping can be fun, perhaps because we’re mingling among our fellow community members when we shop locally. These business owners provide jobs, contribute to our tax pass and help support important community initiatives.
When we shop small, we’re helping not only our fellow community members be successful, we’re helping our community as a whole