Patrick
Even though Saturday brought steady rain and strong winds, Emporia residents still turned out in impressive numbers to champion local businesses for Small Business Saturday.
Partnering with Emporia Main Street, local shops rolled out fresh promotions and exclusive offers to encourage residents to shop locally and discover new products.
Local Shops Offer Exclusive Deals and New Items
Popular businesses—including The Sweet Granada, Gravel City Roasters, Mulready’s, and many others—participated by launching discounts, special menu items, and seasonal products.
One of the day’s biggest highlights was Emporia Main Street’s annual Elf Scavenger Hunt, where participants searched for hidden elves across select stores. Those who completed the hunt were entered into a drawing for four $50 gift cards.
The hunt ran from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and afterward, families were invited to the historic Granada Theatre for a free community screening of the holiday classic “Elf.”
An Expanded Event Rooted in Tradition
According to Sarah Megredy, Marketing and Outreach Coordinator for Emporia Main Street, the event has steadily grown each year.
“We’ve been hosting Small Business Saturday for several years, and it continues to evolve as we add new elements like the Elf Scavenger Hunt and this year’s free community movie,” Megredy shared.
This expansion is possible thanks to the rising number of participating businesses—more than 25 local shops joined the celebration this year, reflecting the event’s growing visibility and community engagement.
Longtime Participants Reflect on a Decade of Growth
One of those long-standing supporters is The Sweet Granada, which has participated since the inaugural Small Business Saturday nearly a decade ago.
“We took part in the first event around 10 years ago, and it’s always been a strong day for us,” said owner Kim Redeker. “Emporia truly values its small businesses.
Our residents understand how much local shops contribute to the community’s overall health, and when small businesses thrive, the entire town benefits.”
A Tradition That Continues to Strengthen Community Bonds
Year after year, Small Business Saturday demonstrates how deeply the people of Emporia appreciate and uplift local businesses. Each celebration brings new experiences—whether updated specials, product launches, or family-friendly events—ensuring the tradition remains fresh and meaningful.
The ongoing collaboration between businesses and residents highlights a shared commitment to keeping Emporia’s local economy strong while offering enjoyable experiences that encourage everyone to shop small.
Small Business Saturday in Emporia continues to grow, evolve, and strengthen the connection between local businesses and the community.
Despite challenging weather, residents showed their dedication by turning out to support shops, participate in interactive activities, and enjoy community events.
With more businesses joining each year and new features being added, the tradition remains a vital part of Emporia’s identity and a clear reminder of the lasting power of community-driven support.