GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — While Black Friday often has people rushing to their favorite national chains to find the best deals possible, people here in Grand Rapids had a chance to do their Christmas shopping locally.
For Shantal Thomas, this is the second year she's brought her business, Savor the Flavor, selling unique eggrolls at the Fulton Street Market.
"We can make sure that our customers are happy and their tummies are fed," Thomas said.
Normally open on Saturdays in the winter, the Market hosted its annual Black Friday event once again, inviting shoppers to spend locally at more than 120 vendors.
"You can meet the people, understand how they, you know, make their craft and really get the story behind why these items are so special," said Dana Eardley, executive director for the Fulton Street Market.
Thomas said the crowds at big box stores just don't have the same local charm.
"Technically, you're not getting the best deal because guess what, it wasn't made with love, it was made by a machine," Thomas said.
About 10 minutes down the road, others spent their Black Friday shopping at Downtown Market's first-ever Christkindl Market.
"It's been more than we expected," said spokesperson Brian Burch. "The turnout has been substantial."
Guests can take in a musical performance, grab some warm drinks, or even play a game of curling. But the star of the show is the more than 35 local vendors selling a wide variety of items.
"We have everything from ceramics, alpaca hand knits, and hand-carved wood items, we have all kinds of food that is made and produced locally by local vendors as well," Burch said.
The Christkindl Market is open until Dec. 23 and Fulton Street Market is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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