Shop Locally in Hoboken on Small Business Saturday on Nov. 24

Small Business Saturday is on Nov. 24 this year, two days after Thanksgiving. It is a day for everyone to support the small businesses that their community thrives on.

Especially in Hoboken, where most businesses had to be closed for about a week, local shopping is highly encouraged.

American Express founded the day in 2010 to help small businesses get exposure during the holiday season, when they might be otherwise overlooked. With retailers buzzing around the holidays, it is important to support local small businesses that rely on their neighbors in order to continue prospering and building the local economy in Hoboken. 

"The perception is that we're a disaster area," said Greg Dell'Aquila, the president of Hoboken's Chamber of Commerce. "The perception is that we're washed out. That's not true. We're open."

According to the city, 97 percent of the city's 433 retail food establishments have reopened since Sandy.

"Now more than ever, we encourage everyone to shop local and visit Hoboken," Mayor Dawn Zimmer said. "Everything that makes Hoboken great - our restaurants, unique shops, and parks - are open and ready to enjoy. This holiday season, come out and support Hoboken and the businesses that help make it thrive."

Last year, 100 million people nationwide participated in Small Business Saturday by shopping at locally owned stores to help boost the economy and their communities.

Multiple Hoboken businesses are participating in the day. Check for a map here. 

You can also “like” Small Business Saturday on Facebook by visiting www.facebook.com/shopsmall.

On Friday — incidentally the busiest shopping day of the year — Dell'Aquila said he will be handing out banners and merchandise from American Express to those businesses who are participating in Small Business Saturday.

Everyone has locally owned businesses in their community, and shopping on Small Business Saturday is the perfect way to give back to the businesses you know and love in your community.

TELL US: What small businesses do you patronize in your town and what makes them great? Share in the comments below.