Niles Homecoming Holiday Combines With Small Business Saturday

NILES, MICHIGAN -- Niles Michigan has a holiday homecoming celebration every year where they light their Christmas tree.   This year main street officials decided to move it to tomorrow, which is the same day as the national Small Business Saturday.  They are hoping to entice more people in Niles to shop locally.


Veni's candy shop has been a staple in Niles for several decades but Linda Skwarcan and her husband bought the shop three years ago, and they say events like Small Business Saturday help ensure that their candy shop will be around for many more decades to come.

Owner of Veni's candy shop Linda Swarcan says it's hard for local businesses to keep up with corporate price slashing during the holidays.


"We had black friday specials and we will be doing something for tomorrow", said Swarcan.
She says shopping local is vital in small communities.


"It's important no matter what shop you are that people shop local and support their local businesses.  The money stays in the community.  We employ people and their paychecks stay in the community.

She says moving homecoming holiday to the same date as Small Business Saturday is going to help out the Niles community.

"They are just recommending that people go out and shop local businesses.  Shop the mom and pop shops.  If everyone just makes one or two purchases, it really does help the local economy", said Swarcan.

She hopes local residents will continue to support her business during the holidays.

"Yes we had a very busy day today.  It makes a great gift.  We have had hostess gifts, stalking stuffers, and a variety.  It’s all going out”, said Swarcan.

So she can continue to support the Niles community.

"We donate gift certificates and product to the food bank, to churches, and other organizations.  We really try to be involved in the community", said Swarcan.

Holiday homecoming is from four to seven tomorrow.  Niles Main Street will be providing hot cider and cookies.  Santa and Mrs. Clause will be attending.

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