National Chains Close for Thanksgiving, Highlighting the Value of Local Shopping

Salina, Kansas – Once again, major national retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Sam’s Club opted to remain closed on Thanksgiving Day, allowing employees to spend time with their families and pushing the start of the holiday shopping season to Black Friday. This trend places an even brighter spotlight on the importance of shopping local and supporting small businesses during the holidays.

In Salina, downtown retailers are preparing for a festive weekend, offering unique gifts, personalized service, and holiday cheer. Local shop owners are embracing the season with enthusiasm, creating an inviting atmosphere for shoppers looking for meaningful and distinctive holiday treasures.

Lisa Rolefson, owner of Penny Layne at 112 N Santa Fe Ave, shared her excitement about Black Friday in Salina:
"We enjoy seeing everyone milling around downtown on Black Friday. Everyone is happy, and it’s a festive atmosphere. We often get to meet our regular customers’ families. It’s wonderful getting to help people find that unique gift and being part of their holiday."

Penny Layne goes the extra mile to make holiday shopping easier and more enjoyable by offering shipping for out-of-town customers, gift wrapping, and even local delivery. Rolefson noted that these small touches are part of helping customers tackle their holiday to-do lists in a stress-free way.

Kelli Webb, owner of a perfumery at 109 S Santa Fe Ave, echoed the importance of supporting local businesses. She described downtown Salina as vibrant and unique, offering a sense of community alongside an array of distinctive gifts.
"Shopping local creates a vibrant downtown," Webb said.
Her perfumery is offering special deals for both Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, with extended hours to accommodate holiday shoppers.

Local shop owners agree that small businesses offer more than just products—they provide personalized experiences, community connection, and a way to give back to the local economy. By choosing to shop downtown, residents can enjoy a festive atmosphere while finding gifts that reflect the heart of the community.

This holiday season, Salina’s downtown businesses are ready to help shoppers make memories, find the perfect gifts, and celebrate the spirit of the season—all while strengthening the local economy.