VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. - Brick-and-mortar stores in the city’s ViBe Creative District will have their doors open on Small Business Saturday to give people the chance to check out their locally-sourced and made products. Others will have pop-up tents throughout the neighborhood.
This Small Business Saturday will be crucial for local businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, as Kate Pittman, executive director of the ViBe Creative District, explained.
“We want to make sure we're supporting the businesses that really need the extra boost during the holidays,” Pittman said. “Some of them have been fortunate to get grants or federal support this year, but many have not. So they're really relying on people to come shop with them."
Featured stores are offering a variety of products, including food, drinks, specialty items, locally-sourced products and locally-made items.
Among these small businesses, there is no competition. In fact, Pittman said these businesses have supported each other and worked together to get through this pandemic.
"I think you've seen that all across the City of Virginia Beach this year, but especially in the ViBe District,” Pittman said. “Our neighborhood has really grown from neighbors helping neighbors, and small businesses encouraging the sales and support of their neighbors."
The ViBe Creative District is also holding a scavenger hunt where visitors will be asked questions about certain District businesses. Answer at least 10 right and you will be entered to win prizes from some of the featured businesses. Click here for more information on the scavenger hunt.
For a complete list of participating businesses – brick-and-mortar stores and pop-up shops – click here. For a detailed map, click here. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., but certain businesses may have different times.
Also this weekend, the Museum of Contemporary Art has free admission.
