With Vicksburg’s annual downtown Holiday Open House kicking off Sunday, we encourage readers to head over to Washington St. to attend the festivities and do some holiday shopping along the way.

American Express, the company that created Small Business Saturday, states that out of every dollar spent at a small business in the United States, approximately 67 cents stays in the local community. Shopping small on Small Business Saturday, which is Nov. 30, and also all year long, creates a large and lasting impact.

Let’s give our local merchants a headstart to the holiday shopping season by shopping small this Sunday and throughout the holiday season.

So before you turn to online merchants or retail stores located outside of Warren County, visit our local merchants and see if they have what you are looking for. Chances are, they will have what you need in the store or will be willing to help you order it for local pick up. And make sure to check out some of Washington St.’s newest businesses, like Magnolia Jewelry and Bridal Studio 61.

In an article published in Thursday’s edition, we detailed three local downtown business owners who are wrapping up preparations for the event. Peterson’s owner Bobbie Marascalco has already unloaded over 50 boxes of toys, and Frederick’s Boutique owner Norma Massey, Cinnamon Tree owner Karen Ruggles and a host of other downtown merchants and store managers are also finalizing plans for a community filled kick-off to the Christmas season.

Outside of showcasing their Christmas decor and jumpstarting the holiday shopping season, the three business owners commented on the community aspect of the open house.

It’s a good time to support local businesses and spend dollars locally, but the event also serves as a time to catch up with friends and neighborhoods and for community fellowship. With holiday music playing in the background and beautifully decorated windows, many local merchants will offer refreshments to open house shoppers as they peruse items and mingle.

The event begins Sunday at 1 and ends at 5 p.m. We look forward to seeing you there.