Small Business Saturday 2027 will take place on Saturday, November 27, 2027.
It is the Saturday immediately following Thanksgiving and Black Friday. This annual shopping holiday encourages consumers to support local, independent, and small businesses rather than large corporate retailers.
Whether you are a shopper looking for unique gifts or a business owner planning your biggest sales day of the year, here is everything you need to know.
When is Small Business Saturday 2027?
Small Business Saturday always falls on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Because Thanksgiving shifts every year, the date for Small Business Saturday changes accordingly.
Here is the quick timeline for the 2027 holiday shopping weekend:
| Holiday | Date in 2027 | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Thanksgiving | Thursday, November 25 | Family and gratitude. |
| Black Friday | Friday, November 26 | Big-box retailers and massive discounts. |
| Small Business Saturday | Saturday, November 27 | Local, independent, and small businesses. |
| Cyber Monday | Monday, November 29 | Online retailers and tech deals. |
What is Small Business Saturday?
American Express founded Small Business Saturday in 2010. The goal was to help small businesses compete with the massive marketing budgets of big-box retailers during the holiday season.
Today, it is a nationwide movement. It applies to brick-and-mortar storefronts, local service providers, and independent e-commerce shops.
How to Shop Small on Small Business Saturday 2027
If you want to support your local economy, you need a strategy. Here is how to make the most of the day:
- Plan Your Route: Map out the local shopping districts in your city. Many towns host special walking tours or market events on this day.
- Follow Local Shops on Social Media: Small businesses often announce flash sales, giveaways, and exclusive in-store discounts on Instagram and Facebook a week before the event.
- Look for “Shop Small” Maps: Many local Chambers of Commerce publish interactive maps highlighting participating businesses. Check your city’s official website.
- Leave Reviews: If you buy something, leave a 5-star Google or Yelp review. This free marketing helps small businesses rank higher in local search results.
Small Business Saturday 2027 Tips for Business Owners
If you own a small business, this is your Super Bowl. Do not rely on foot traffic alone. Use these actionable strategies to drive sales:
1. Update Your Google Business Profile
Ensure your holiday hours are updated. Post a “Small Business Saturday” offer directly to your Google Business Profile. This helps you appear in local “near me” searches.
2. Run a Specific, Time-Sensitive Promotion
Avoid vague discounts. Offer a clear deal. For example: “The first 20 customers get a free gift,” or “20% off all local-made items.”
3. Partner with Neighboring Businesses
Cross-promote with other shops on your street. Create a “passport” where customers get a stamp from three different stores to win a prize. This drives foot traffic to everyone.
4. Use the Official Hashtag
Use #SmallBusinessSaturday and #ShopSmall on all your social media posts. American Express heavily promotes these tags, which can push your content into broader feeds.
5. Capture Emails
Offer a 10% discount on their next purchase if shoppers sign up for your email newsletter at the register. This turns a one-time holiday buyer into a year-round customer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Small Business Saturday a federal holiday?
No. It is not a federal or public holiday. Banks, post offices, and government offices remain open. Most private businesses operate on normal Saturday hours, though local shops may extend their hours.
Does Small Business Saturday only apply to physical stores?
No. It applies to any independently owned business. This includes local restaurants, freelance service providers, and independent online stores that are not part of a massive corporate conglomerate.
When do Small Business Saturday deals start?
Deals officially start at 12:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 27, 2027, and end at 11:59 p.m. However, many businesses start their promotions on Friday evening or run them through the entire weekend.
How can I find participating small businesses near me?
Use the official American Express “Shop Small” map on their website. You can also search Google Maps for “small business Saturday events near me” or check your local Chamber of Commerce website.