.svg)
From October 3-5, Michigan Retailers Association celebrated the state’s retailers and small businesses to kick off the holiday shopping season.
This year marked the 12th Buy Nearby Weekend celebration, reaching more communities than ever before.
Two New Contests
Shop 3 Challenge Punch Card Contest
Consumers took the Shop 3 Challenge and visited local businesses on Buy Nearby Weekend for a chance to win a $500 gift card. Michigan-based retail businesses signed and stamped punch cards for shoppers in every corner of the state. This contest encouraged consumers to think small first, and explore more local retailers as they begin their holiday shopping for the season.
Mary B., of Traverse City, was selected as the $500 winner for the Shop 3 Challenge Punch Card Contest, with her entry listing visits at three locally-owned retailers in Elk Rapids over Buy Nearby Weekend.
Buy Nearby Weekend Display Contest
Retailers’ creativity speaks for itself. Michigan businesses put together impressive Buy Nearby Weekend-themed displays, endcaps, window displays, and website landing pages to spread the word about the importance of keeping your money in Michigan and supporting Michigan-based retail.
Cottage Used Books in Goodrich, MI won a 1-year MRA membership for their display contest entry.
Buy Nearby Guy’s Road Trip
The MRA team took to the road with the Buy Nearby Guy for the annual Buy Nearby Weekend Road Trip. This year, we left Lansing and headed West to Grand Rapids for a visit at Miera’s Family Shoes, a Pit-Stop sponsor.
We traveled North to the city of Elk Rapids, our Ultimate Destination Sponsor. Buy Nearby Guy visited several retailers downtown and ended his time in Elk Rapids with a stop at Short’s Brewing Company.
Before heading back home, we made a quick surprise visit to see MRA members in Cadillac, including Simply Delightful.
The Buy Nearby Guy brings great awareness to the Buy Nearby program and provides memorable engagement with shoppers. As Michigan’s favorite big blue mascot, he is a champion for local shopping across our state.
A complete photo gallery has been posted to the Buy Nearby Facebook page.
Save the Date
Buy Nearby Weekend 2026 is October 2-4!
Mark your calendars for the 13th annual Buy Nearby Weekend, happening the first full weekend in October 2026. Keep your eyes peeled next spring for more information about the 2026 event.
.svg)
