The holiday shopping season is upon us. Saturday is Small Business Saturday and the city of Buda is a perfect place to take advantage of shopping and dining specials. The Buda Economic Development Corporation, Buda Main Street Program, Downtown Buda Merchants Group, city of Buda Tourism Department and Buda Area Chamber of Commerce have formed a coalition to help boost sales and recognition of local businesses that contribute positively to the local community. Buda’s local businesses create jobs, boost the local economy, support local organizations and help preserve neighborhoods.
Businesses across Buda will host a variety of promotions, giveaways, specials and more. Shop in a relaxing environment where business owners can provide one-on-one attention and help you find unique gifts for your loved ones.
The Buda Economic Development Corporation will kick off its Hometown Holidays Shopping promotion on Small Business Saturday. Between Nov. 30 and Dec. 24, shoppers can submit a copy of their receipts to [email protected] for purchases made at Buda businesses (excluding gas). For every $25 submitted, shoppers receive one entry into a drawing for gift baskets featuring local businesses and totaling more than $100 each.
In addition to shopping, dining and relaxing specials, the Buda Main Street Program, in conjunction with the Downtown Buda Merchants Group, will host the Cocoa Jingle on Main Street and Downtown Lighting Ceremony and new this year, an Ornament Market. All events on Saturday are free and open to the public. Participants can bring their own cocoa mugs for a sample of cocoa from each of the cocoa stations or purchase one from any downtown business. Special downtown mugs will be available for purchase in the Greenbelt. Schedule of events include:
• Small Business Saturday kick-off with shopping and dining specials at 10 a.m.
• 11:a.m. – Santa rides through downtown. Santa begins his journey at the Buda Mill & Grain Co. and will make his way around downtown in a vintage fire truck before arriving at the BAM Center (former library building) for complimentary photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. (Those interested should bring their own cameras.)
• Noon – Ornament Market in Greenbelt Park
• 3:30 p.m. – Cocoa Jingle tastings available while supplies last and Jingle Jammie Pajama Contest
• 6 p.m. – Countdown to Lights with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Greenbelt Park
Participants will have an opportunity to vote for their favorite cocoa. Jingle Jammie Awards will be awarded to individuals and groups wearing the best pajamas during the event.
At 5:45 p.m. the public is invited to meet at the Downtown Christmas Tree, located in the Buda Greenbelt (near the former library) to countdown the Downtown Lighting with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Parking for all activities is available on-street, in city-owned parking lots, and at the Buda Mill & Grain Co.
For more information, contact Maggie Gillespie, Buda Main Street Program Manager at 512.523.1075 or via email at [email protected]. For more information on the Buda Economic Development Corporation and the Hometown Holidays shopping promotion, email [email protected].
