It’s the Thought That Counts During Small Business Season in Columbia County

Think about the local shop that helped you find a gift for someone who’s hard to buy for, the restaurant that took care of dinner on a busy night, or the business that sponsored your child’s team. The holidays are a good time to show those businesses how much they mean to you.

From November 1 through December 31, 2026, the Magnolia-Columbia County Chamber of Commerce invites you to celebrate Small Business Season. This year’s theme, “It’s the Thought That Counts,” is a reminder that something as simple as telling a friend about your favorite shop can help a local business find its next customer.

Our small businesses are behind so much of what makes the holidays special in Columbia County a recommendation, a review, or a purchase can introduce someone to a business they might otherwise never discover.

Make a day of shopping local

Start with Christmas Open House, then use the Christmas Shopping Passport as a reason to visit a shop you’ve been meaning to try. Here’s what’s coming up around Magnolia.

• Christmas Open House | Sunday, November 8, 1–5 PM

  Kick off your holiday shopping with participating merchants in downtown Magnolia and beyond.

• Christmas Shopping Passport | November 8–December 5

  Visit participating businesses, find gifts along the way, and take part in the passport giveaway.

• Shop Small Saturday | Saturday, November 28

  Bring your holiday list and see what you can find close to home.

• Magnolia Christmas Parade | Thursday, December 3, 5 PM

  Head downtown for this year’s parade, themed “Christmas Around the World.”

• Merrytime in Magnolia | Saturday, December 5, 11 AM–3 PM

  Spend part of your Saturday enjoying holiday activities, with Santa visiting from noon to 2 PM.

  
  

Give a local gift with Blossom Bucks

Blossom Bucks officially launches Friday, November 6. The Chamber’s new digital community gift card can be used at participating Chamber member businesses, so the person you give it to can choose where to spend it. Blossom Bucks will be available year-round, and shoppers can receive bonus dollars with a gift card purchase during a special holiday promotion. Explore Blossom Bucks.

Show a favorite business some love

Think of one Columbia County business you’d send a friend to. Tell that friend what you love about it, share the business’s latest post, or leave a review about a good experience. If you’re already planning a purchase or looking for a service, see what’s available locally.

Small Business Season grew into a nationwide movement in 2020 as chambers and their communities rallied around local businesses. Here in Columbia County, it’s a chance to thank the people who create jobs, support local causes, and make our community feel like home.

Find upcoming events on the Chamber’s website. For questions about participating businesses or holiday activities, call the Chamber at 870-234-4353 or email Rachel Jenkins.