For many shoppers, Black Friday conjures images of massive lines and chaotic stampedes at big box stores, where rabid consumers elbow and trample each other as they scramble for the best deals.
These scenes contradict the benevolent spirit of the holidays and threaten your physical and mental wellbeing. You can do more good for your health — and for the local economy — by shopping at independent Seacoast businesses, craft fairs, and other events this weekend. And while you’re at it, you can satisfy just about everyone on your holiday shopping list.
There are all kinds of craft fairs and other holiday sales events happening between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Here are a few of the highlights coming up this long weekend, offering unique gifts from local businesses and artisans.
Plaid Friday
Plaid-clad shoppers in downtown Portsmouth for Plaid Friday.
Spearheaded by Seacoast Local, Plaid Friday is an annual event celebrating “the diversity and creativity of local and independent business.” Shoppers are encouraged to wear plaid all day on Friday, Nov. 25, and take advantage of deals at locally owned businesses and organizations across the Seacoast. For details on participating businesses and the deals they’re offering, click here.
Tote Around Town
Portsmouth’s first-ever Tote Around Town event is Saturday.
The day after Plaid Friday, more than 20 local businesses will participate in Portsmouth’s first-ever Tote Around Town event. Conceived by Oomph Salon owner Tanya Hart and inspired by the Small Business Saturday movement, the citywide event starts at 10 a.m. on Nov. 26. Shoppers can pick up a free Tote Around Town tote bag at one of five locations that morning and then start shopping at participating businesses, some of which will have refreshments and other special offerings. Shoppers who spend at least $20 at any participating business will receive a custom button to pin on their tote bag. Each button is good for one raffle ticket at the Tote Around Town after party, which takes place at the Seacoast Repertory Theatre from 2-5 p.m. The party will feature prizes, live entertainment, free food, and a cash bar. The goal, according to Hart, is to take the stress out of holiday shopping and support the local economy. For more information and a list of participating businesses (and tote-bag pickup locations), click here.
Craft Fix
Danica Carlson’s stuffed elephants are among the offerings at Craft Fix.
On Sunday, Nov. 27, esteemed makers from around the region will take part in the eighth annual Craft Fix event. Their work will fill the Buoy Gallery at 2 Government St. in Kittery, Maine, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Around 20 artists and crafters will have goods available, including artwork, jewelry, pottery, stuffed animals, and more. For details and a list of participating makers, click here.
Art on the Hill Open Studios
Jewelry by Blair LaBella will be available at the Art on the Hill Open Studios.
All weekend long, artists on all three floors of the Art on the Hill artist studios will open their doors to holiday shoppers. Located in a former elementary school building at 78 Government St. in Kittery, Maine, Art on the Hill is home to painters, printmakers, jewelers, potters, musicians, and more. The open studios take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 26 and 27. For more information and a list of participants, click here.