Nov. 25—Laramie will celebrate the seventh annual Small Business Saturday. Over 60 local businesses will participate, offering in-house specials and promotions. The downtown historic district is expected to thrive on the government-recognized holiday.

According to the American Chamber of Commerce, local businesses are 250% more likely to donate to the community than large corporations. Since American Express launched Small Business Saturday in 2010, the event has continually raised over $15 billion nationwide to local businesses and communities.

"Small Business Saturday is my favorite holiday! I love seeing the community come out with smiles to support the local businesses!” Laramie Main Street Alliance executive director Trey Sherwood said. “The Shop Small movement helps residents connect to entrepreneurs as neighbors and friends. When you know the face behind the name, you're less likely to spend your hard-earned money online or in another community.”

For every $1 spent shopping in downtown Laramie, $2 is reinvested in the community, thanks to of local businesses, Sherwood said. The Laramie Main Street Alliance encourages community members to participate in a day that is beneficial to the growth of the Laramie community.

“For Laramie, shopping local is critical to maintain our streets, parks, fire and police services as the city’s budget is dependent on the sales tax that is generated by local purchases,” she said.

For more information about Small Business Saturday and the local deals that Laramie businesses will be offering, visit shopsmalllaramie.com.