Plaid Friday celebrates the diversity and creativity of local and independent businesses. It’s a fun and enjoyable alternative to the big box store “Black Friday” consumer frenzy. Also, it’s a way to show your support for your local economy and commitment to the Choose Indie Local movement. So, plan to wear PLAID the day after Thanksgiving!
Plaid Friday History
Plaid Friday was created by Kerri Johnson in Oakland, CA, to bring back the time when shopping for friends and family was a pleasurable leisurely activity. Now it is celebrated throughout the nation as part of our Shop Indie Local Holiday Campaign.
“At the time Plaid Friday was conceived, there was a growing movement to boycott all shopping on “Black Friday.” I, as well as many of the people I knew, avoided the craziness of that day. Most small businesses didn’t even open. At the time, I had a small artist-run gallery that I ran with my husband Jason, and we would turn the gallery into a pop-up shop featuring local artisans for the holidays. I thought why not turn this crazy day into something relaxing and enjoyable, giving people an alternative to shopping at the malls at 3 am. The idea was to get up late, grab a coffee, and explore the neighborhood, discovering small businesses and shopping local. A win-win for everyone.”
How Indies Celebrate Today
- Encourage your staff (and your partner’s staff) to wear plaid (Not open on Plaid Friday? Check out what Badger Balm does the day before Thanksgiving)
- Photograph customers who visit your business wearing plaid (browse The Local Crowd Monadnock’s photos for inspiration)
- If you offer any holiday specials/sales/events, brand them as a Shop Indie Local promotion
- Create a display featuring locally made items
- Use plaid ribbon, tissue paper, or buy local bags
- Have ideas to add? Please share them with us!
Here’s how one community celebrates: Plaid Friday in the Monadnock Region, NH
Has your community celebrated Plaid Friday? We’d love to learn more about how you celebrate. Drop us a line!
Happy Shop Indie Local Season
From November 1 – December 31, Shop Indie Local celebrates locally owned businesses and works to increase spending at these businesses.
Our campaign urges shoppers to take positive action and boost the ripple effect of economic and community benefits our neighborhoods, towns, and cities receive when we spend dollars at locally owned, independent businesses.
Tools and Resources
Sign on today to become a Shop Indie Local Partner and get access to our tools and resources.