Small businesses are at the heart of local communities. What better way to celebrate the diversity, uniqueness and creativity of independent, local businesses than by supporting them during the busiest shopping season of the year?

"When you shop at a small business, you're supporting someone's dream and someone's passion," said Bethany Hartzok, who is coordinating events and activities throughout downtown Columbia on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 25. "Shopping locally makes a big difference in your community."

Columbia will combine an Old-Fashioned Christmas with Small Business Saturday. The festivities will begin with a parade leading Santa Claus to Hinkle's Restaurant, 261 Locust St., where he will greet families and pose for free pictures. Christmas cookie decorating and an opportunity for youths to shop for gifts in Santa's workshop will be held in the Columbia Market House, 15 S. Third St. Mrs. Claus will read to children at the Columbia Public Library, 24 S. Sixth St., before a tree lighting in Locust Street Park. Carolers will entertain throughout the day around town and at the tree lighting. The times for all activities and additional details are still being finalized, and more information can be found by following the "Merchant's Association of Columbia, PA" on Facebook.

Shopping at Columbia businesses will also be a focus on Nov. 25, of course, said Hartzok. "People can pick up a card at participating shops, and once they get a stamp at six stores, they can turn their card in for a chance to win a cash drawing," she said.

Shopping on Small Business Saturday supports the local economy and also offers an opportunity to find unique, one-of-a-kind items with local flair for everyone on your holiday gift list. Look for sales and specials by following local businesses on social media, and then visit the stores in person, where you can get a feel for an item, size it up and even inspect its quality prior to purchasing it.

Not sure what to buy? Consider a gift card to a local business, restaurant or smaller food merchant so your loved ones can splurge on themselves and possibly discover a new favorite location. Additionally, subscriptions to small businesses such as health clubs and massage therapy services can be the gift that keeps on giving for recipients, providing ongoing benefits to the business, as well.

Purchasing gifts and gift cards isn't the only way to provide support to local businesses during this festive season. While you're shopping retailers, consider dining out at local eateries, whether that means trying a new venue or patronizing an old favorite. Holiday meals and gatherings can also be catered by area restaurants, which provides the double benefit of simplifying the hosts' to-do lists while supporting the local economy.

Families looking for the perfect tree may want to consider paying a visit to a local tree farm or nursery, where they may also find handcrafted decorations, such as wreaths and garlands, to spruce up their homes for the season.

When shopping this holiday season, look to the small, local businesses that help make the regions's towns unique.