TORRINGTON – Small Business Saturday, celebrated nationwide on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, has become a vital occasion to support locally-owned businesses. This year, Governor Mark Gordon has officially proclaimed November 30th as “Small Business Saturday,” recognizing the essential role small businesses play in the local economy and community. 

For many, the holiday season is the most critical time of year for local retailers, and Small Business Saturday provides an opportunity to kick off the holiday shopping season by encouraging shoppers to invest in the local community.

Leann Mattis, Community Development Director at Go Goshen, was able to attend the proclamation signing. 

“Being a witness to Governor Gordon signing the proclamation declaring November 30th as Small Business Saturday is a meaningful moment for Goshen County. As the director of our Main Street program, alongside my dedicated board members, this recognition reflects the support and commitment we offer to our local business community. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the heart of our community. By shopping small this holiday season, we can continue to strengthen Goshen County, uplift our neighbors, and celebrate the incredible impact of shopping local. Together, we can make this season truly special,” Mattis said.

In support of Small Business Saturday, the Torrington Main Street program has planned a series of special events to encourage residents to shop local. The Main Street team is offering free “Support Local” tote bags to the community. These bags, available from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, November 30 at the 21st and Main building and Old Moose Coffee and Events, are filled with information about seasonal specials and surprises such as gift cards, coupons, products, and even a chance for Goshen Bucks which can be spent like cash at participating retailers in Goshen County. As supplies are limited, organizers encourage attendees to arrive early to secure their free tote bag. This is just one way the Main Street program is helping to foster a sense of community and encourage people to explore the unique offerings of local businesses this holiday season.

In addition to the tote bags is this year’s Shop Small Passport promotion. Passports will be available in the tote bags on Small Business Saturday or at local businesses. To participate, shoppers simply collect stamps on their passports with each local purchase. Passports can be stamped multiple times at the same business, as long as the visits are on different occasions. Once all 12 stamps are collected, participants can submit their completed passports to any participating business or drop them off in a designated box at the 21st & Main building by 4 p.m. on Thursday, December 19. Prize drawings will take place the following day.

The following Saturday, December 7 starting at 9 a.m. the businesses in Fort Laramie are hosting a Shop Small event. The local stores will be running holiday sales, there will be a craft show at the community center, and pony rides for the kids. The Fort Laramie Historic Site’s Christmas on the Frontier is the same day, so locals have many great reasons to stop by Fort Laramie. 

Marcia Sachanandani, owner of Country Grace in Fort Laramie, says “the only reason my shop is here is because of the support of local people.” She goes on to say that, as opposed to big box stores or online shopping, local stores support local artists and can reflect the values of the community. 

“My shop is all American made, and most of the products are from Wyoming, Nebraska, and Colorado. That’s important to me and to this community,” Sachanandanisaid.

Small businesses are the backbone of Wyoming’s economy. The state is home to more than 73,000 small businesses, which account for 98.9% of all businesses and employ over 64% of the state’s workforce. These businesses not only provide essential goods and services, but they also contribute to the unique character and charm of our communities. From the local coffee shop to the independent bookstore, each small business plays an integral role in shaping the culture and identity of our towns. 

This holiday season, consider doing your holiday shopping close to home. By supporting local businesses, you’re investing in the future of your community, helping to sustain jobs, and ensuring that your money stays within the local economy. When you shop small, you’re not just purchasing a product—you’re supporting a neighbor, a family, or a community member working hard to make their business thrive. Plus, you’ll find many high-quality, one-of-a-kind gifts that can’t be found in large chain stores or online marketplaces. Whether you’re looking for a unique gift, handmade artisan goods, or just a special treat, local shops offer personalized service and distinctive products that reflect the values of your community. This holiday season, think about the impact your purchases will have beyond the transaction. By choosing to shop small, you can help foster economic resilience in Goshen County and contribute to the continued growth and vibrancy of the region.