Lancaster County's economy is driven by small, local businesses. According to data from EDC Lancaster County, the county is home to more than 13,000 businesses, 97% of which have fewer than 100 employees.

Truly, local businesses are at the heart of Lancaster County 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?

"We hope the community will rally around our small-town businesses during this holiday season," said Kristie Schmid, executive director of the Manheim Area Chamber of Commerce. "When you shop locally, your money goes back into this community. Your friends and neighbors, who are also small business owners, need your support, now more than ever."

Schmid noted that many of the Manheim-area businesses will have specials and promotions on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 25, and she also encourages people to continue to visit downtown throughout the holiday season. Events and activities will be featured at https://lovemanheim.com.

"Our retail shops and restaurants have special discounts and offers for you to help stretch your dollars during this busy season," Schmid stated. "We've conveniently listed them for you so you can plan your holiday shopping. Have a friend or family member that hasn't been to Manheim recently? Invite them to check it out."

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 Lancaster County's towns unique.