Small Business Saturday and Tree Lighting Ceremony happening this weekend in Downtown Perry 

PERRY — Christmas time in the City of Perry is about to begin as they will be kicking it off with Small Business Saturday, followed by their annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 29, starting at 10 a.m., with the Tree Lighting Ceremony beginning at 6 p.m. on the City Hall lawn. 

Downtown Manager Alicia Hartley said the city recognizes Small Business Saturday due to the impact it has on the community here in Perry. 

“Every dollar that is spent in a small business maintains 67% to recirculate the local economy,” she said. “Our small businesses are the ones that are helping the little league teams and schools with fundraisers, sponsoring youth sports and employing locals who are spending their money here. There’s always a big push for online shopping, but we really like to bring the attention back to our local community and the businesses that are here 365 days of the year.” 

Harley pointed out that the small businesses in downtown Perry appreciate the support from the city through Small Business Saturday, even though it is one of the busiest times of the year. She said most businesses have special deals for this occasion as well. 

“I know a handful open early or stay open late until the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6 p.m. that evening,” she said. “Businesses go all out for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday around here.” 

According to Hartley, the Tree Lighting Ceremony is a way for the City of Perry to kick off the Christmas season. 

“We pair our tree lighting on Small Business Saturday to encourage families to come out to downtown on Small Business Saturday, so that way you still come and shop and grab something to eat and also enjoy our tree lighting ceremony,” she said. “We really are bringing that focus back to being a community centered event while mentioning how this season is for our businesses.” 

Hartley believes this event is a great way to start the holiday season with your friends and family, and also a great way of giving back to the small businesses. 

“It’s really a family affair that we try to encourage those to kick off this holiday season with us,” she said. 

To learn more about Small Business Saturday and the City of Perry Tree Lighting Ceremony, go to perry-ga.gov/tree-lighting-ceremony.