No question, Saturday, November 18, 2023, is going to be a huge day for Missoula.

For the Brawl of the Wild, the Griz and Cats are ranked nationally 3rd and 4th respectively, so the game is going to be epic. The forecast for Saturday looks promising, too. And p.s., if you're looking for tickets to the game, we have an opportunity to win a pair.

But that's not the only important Saturday in November.

I came across a survey that says that America's shopping habits may be changing.

It used to be that Black Friday was the day that everyone tried to get their shopping done because there were so many deals to take advantage of. Now, people seem to care less about the deals and more about supporting their community.

Related: Holiday Markets in Western Montana 2023

The Bankrate survey says that it's very likely more people will be shopping on Small Business Saturday than on Black Friday.

New Bankrate data shows that 61 percent of holiday shoppers are likely to choose Small Business Saturday for holiday shopping. That number is slightly higher than the number of shoppers likely to shop on Black Friday (56 percent). - bankrate.com

A survey like this makes me really happy. It was a tough year for businesses in Missoula, so data suggesting that more people will be shopping for Small Business Saturday seems hopeful.

Related: 13 Missoula Businesses That Closed in 2023

Small Business Saturday in Missoula 2023

Downtown Missoula will once again be encouraging everyone to shop locally on Saturday, November 25. While many of the shops will have extended hours, be sure to stop in the Paddleheads Post at 140 N. Higgins Ave. for a coupon for free hot cocoa. They'll also have information about which stores and restaurants will have promotions.

You can also visit the Southgate Mall for the Missoula Valley Winter Market which starts at 9:00 am. The Indigenous Made Winter Market will be held at the Missoula County Fairgrounds which starts at 12:00 pm. And, a local Artisan Market will take place at Montgomery Distillery from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm.

45 Missoula Businesses That Opened, Changed Ownership, Expanded, or Changed Location

Yes, there has been a lot of change with Missoula businesses since 2020. Here is an idea of the business growth that has taken place.

Gallery Credit: Ashley Warren

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