Skip the Blackout. Show Up for Local Businesses.

There’s a “mass blackout” campaign circulating, telling people not to shop or dine out during one of the most critical weeks of the year for small businesses.

A stunt like that wouldn’t punish corporations or hurt oligarchs. The big chains will be just fine. They have deep pockets, national marketing budgets, and endless backup plans. And if it gets really bad? They’ll just lay off people .

The ones who would take the hit?

Local shops. Local restaurants. The family-run bakeries, the artists, the makers, the mom-and-pop cafés. A week without business could devastate them — some wouldn’t recover.

If you really care about our community, if you say you support local, don’t sit out. Show up. Shop local. Dine local.

Here are simple, real ways to make a difference:

— Visit local markets, festivals, art walks, and neighborhood pop-ups

— Eat at locally owned restaurants, food trucks, and coffee shops

— Grab coffee or dessert from a small roaster or bakery

— Pick up gifts from local boutiques, artists, and makers

— Choose independent bookstores, florists, and galleries

— Book your next haircut, massage, or repair through local pros

— Hire local photographers, designers, and contractors

— Buy local produce or plants from nearby farms and nurseries

— Attend community festivals, concerts, and holiday events

— Leave positive reviews on Google and social media

— Share local businesses’ posts and tag them in your photos

— Buy gift cards for friends, family, or future use

— Tip generously — especially during the busy season

— Thank local owners and employees for what they do

That’s how we protect the heart of our neighborhoods.

Ester Venouziou, founder of LocalShops1 and Shopapalooza Festival