Friday was one of the biggest shopping days of the year throughout the country and in Vicksburg as people looked for deals at Belk, Dillard’s, the Outlets of Vicksburg and more.

After spending Thursday evening and Friday shopping up a storm and hunting for deals at the big box stores, don’t forget to head downtown and support your local small businesses this weekend.

Today and Sunday it is time for the local businesses to shine with today marking Small Business Saturday nationwide.

The national event originated in 2010 as a means to promote the support of small businesses during one of the busiest shopping times of the year.

Small Business Saturday is a reminder to residents of Vicksburg to invest in the city as well as large brand name stores. Many of the local businesses will have sales occurring and others will be selling unique items, which cannot be found in any other store.

“Last year was good, it was busy,” said Kim Laird, manager of Merle Norman. “This year we have a 30 percent off rack and Shoofly has purses and shoes on sale too.”

The Merle Norman store will be participating in the citywide occasion for the second time Saturday.

Many of the sales will also continue into Sunday as downtown Vicksburg celebrates its 21st annual Old Fashion Christmas Open House, which starts at 1:30 p.m. and continues to 5:30 p.m. to coincide with the city of Vicksburg’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Poinsettias will be given out Sunday as a way to get the city into the Christmas spirit as well. With a purchase of $25 or more, a patron will receive one of the Christmas flowers, but only while the flowers last.

Santa will be at the annual Old Fashioned Christmas Open House from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and children will have the opportunity to sit on Santa’s lap and tell him about any Christmas desires. Parents are asked to be sure to bring a camera because, as is tradition, children will be allowed to take pictures with Santa as well.