Shop Small Saturday in Long Beach

Small Business Saturday is an annual holiday event that aims to strengthen neighborhood business communities. Snuggled nicely between the Big Brand-laden Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday encourages people to check out local shops and the locals who own them. Long Beach has many popular, distinct shopping districts flavored heavily with local and unique retail businesses, many of which will be offering specials on Saturday. Plus, in 2023 many are joining a new program to reward local shopping; visit shoplb.org to learn more and download the rewards app. Check out Long Beach's local businesses and find out what’s the big deal about shopping small.

Belmont Shore

Arguably Long Beach’s best known shopping and dining district, the majority of businesses are located on Second Street, with fashionable shops extending into Naples. Extremely strollable, Belmont Shore offers lots of options, with shops offering everything from jewelry to hardware to clothing to home decor to shoes to one-of-a-kind Christmas ornaments and a lot more. For more information and a directory of shops, click here. Plus, to make your trip even easier this year, enjoy free parking all day on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023.

RETRO ROW

As its name suggests, Retro Row has a definite vibe. This fun and funky stretch of Fourth Street–between Temple and Walnut avenues–is home to a collection of uber-cool, vintage-inspired specialty shops and boutiques. The great majority are smaller shops with a curated inventory that would be hard to find anywhere else–vintage clothes, mid-century modern furnishings, vinyl records–let alone all on the same street. For a directory of local shops, click here.

BIXBY KNOLLS

Known to be an exceptionally tight, family-friendly and welcoming neighborhood, Bixby Knolls shopping district centered on Atlantic Avenue reflects this, as it has lots of locally owned shops and boutiques selling everything from home furnishings to toys, some of it with a decidedly nostalgic feel. Shop Small fits well with Bixby Knolls’ full calendar of events such as First Fridays, where shops stay open late, many times bringing inventory out to the sidewalk, offering various specials. For Small Business Saturday, many shops in the area are offering free snacks and special discounts. For all the details, visit the business association's website.

DOWNTOWN

The East Village Arts District is an eclectic district featuring unique boutiques and shops, not to mention galleries and art museums, located in some of the most historic and eye-catching architecture in the city. Here, you’ll find the latest fashion along with vintage items, there’s home decor, lifestyle goods, beauty and wellness products as well as, of course, lots of great local art. For more information about participating shops and specials, click here.

A few blocks to the west is historic Pine Avenue, featuring terrific architecture of its own, along with a lively nightlife scene. Retailers include clothing, skateboard, and vintage shops.

SHORELINE VILLAGE/THE PIKE OUTLETS

Located across the street from each other, Shoreline Village and The Pike Outlets offer very distinctive shopping experiences. Located directly on the waterfront, Shoreline Village gives you stunning views of the Queen Mary, Lions Lighthouse for Sight and Rainbow Harbor. It also is home to a collection of some of the most unique, charming shops offering everything from socks to souvenirs. For a list of shops, click here.

The Pike Outlets aren’t technically local shops, as this center actually features lots of national brands offering great values. However, will host a market for small business vendors from 1:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. on Nov. 18 in celebration of Small Business Saturday. For a directory of shops at the outlets, click here.

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About the Author

Steve Lowery

Steve Lowery is a longtime local. Over the years he has written for the Los Angeles Times, ESPN, and others. If you're looking for the hidden gems of Long Beach, Steve is your go-to.