Today local shops all over Abilene participated in Small Business Saturday.

“It’s just really about coming out and supporting the local community and local economy,” stated Ted Evans, owner of Lone Star Canvas and Sign Works.

Shop owners say it’s not just good for them but also Abilene’s economy.

“It’s really a good deal. It calls attention to local businesses who are really the heart and soul of our retailers,” commented Glenn Dromgoole, owner of the Texas Star Trading Company.

Over the past several years, local business owners and operators say the event has drawn significant crowds.

“They’re happy to come here and support the small business,” commented Lauren Schoonover an employee at Under One Roof.

Obviously our local shop owners are thrilled, but the event takes some mental preparation and proper foot attire.

“You’ve got to be mentally prepared and put on some comfy shoes, because you’re going to be on your feet, walking around and staying busy with a smile on your face ready to help everybody,” continued Schoonover.

Shoppers KRBC spoke with said they chose to shop local to support Abilene businesses and choose from unique collections of products.

“Also there’s a lot of different choices here, so you get variety for all the different people you’re shopping for,” stated one shopper.

When it’s all said and done, local businesses claim that Small Business Saturday is actually a busier day for them than Black Friday.