Astoria, Queens, November 29, 2025
The annual Shop Small Retail Crawl in Astoria, Queens, runs from November 28 to December 7, promoting support for local businesses during the holiday season. By shopping locally, residents can engage with unique retailers while helping sustain their community’s economy. Participants can collect stamps on a passport for rewards, including discounts at local cafes. Supported by local government, this initiative highlights the importance of small businesses in fostering economic growth and community engagement in Astoria.
Astoria, Queens, Hosts Shop Small Retail Crawl to Boost Local Businesses
Astoria, Queens – Astoria’s annual Shop Small Retail Crawl is underway, running from November 28 to December 7, 2025, aiming to support local businesses during the holiday season. This initiative stands as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of small businesses that consistently innovate and adapt to the challenges of a competitive market.
Local entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and community engagement. By encouraging residents to shop locally, events like the Shop Small Retail Crawl not only help independent businesses thrive but also reinforce the strong community bonds that define neighborhoods like Astoria.
Event Details
Participants can shop at various local stores, collecting stamps on a passport available at all participating retail locations or downloadable online. Filling in eight or more squares and submitting the passport to The Brass Owl by December 10 will earn shoppers a free Astoria tote or hat. Additionally, many local cafes are offering discounts to passport holders.
Community Support
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has encouraged residents to support small businesses, noting that those with fewer than 100 employees make up 98% of businesses statewide and employ nearly 40% of the workforce. Shopping locally not only boosts the local economy but serves as an investment in community resilience and prosperity.
Participating Businesses
The crawl features a diverse range of Astoria’s independent retailers, contributing to the vibrant local economy and community spirit of the area. Key participants include:
- The Brass Owl – A boutique offering unique home goods and gifts.
- Lockwood Home & Gift – Specializing in distinctive home décor and accessories.
- Astor Apiaries – Providing locally sourced honey and bee-related products.
- Pancakes Records – A haven for vinyl enthusiasts.
- Sacred Space Astoria – A wellness studio offering yoga and mindfulness classes.
Background
The Shop Small Retail Crawl is an annual event in Astoria, designed to encourage residents and visitors to explore and support the neighborhood’s independent shops, especially during the holiday season. By participating, shoppers not only discover unique gifts but also help sustain the local economy and foster community connections.
Additional Events
In addition to the retail crawl, Astoria is hosting several holiday markets and pop-ups, such as the Buzz & Pop(Up) at The Honey House and the Queens Craft Brigade Holiday Market at QED Astoria, enhancing the festive spirit of the community and providing additional avenues for supporting local artisans and entrepreneurs.
Conclusion
The Shop Small Retail Crawl in Astoria presents an excellent opportunity for the community to come together, support local businesses, and enjoy the neighborhood’s unique offerings during the holiday season. Engaging in this initiative promotes not just individual business growth but the overall economic vitality of the Astoria area. Residents are encouraged to take part and back their local entrepreneurs as they navigate the holiday shopping landscape.
FAQ
What is the Shop Small Retail Crawl?
The Shop Small Retail Crawl is an annual event in Astoria, Queens, where participants shop at various local stores, collect stamps on a passport, and earn rewards like a free Astoria tote or hat.
When does the event take place?
The event runs from November 28 to December 7, 2025.
How can I participate?
Pick up a passport at any participating retail location or download it online. Shop at participating stores, collect stamps, and submit your passport to The Brass Owl by December 10 to receive your reward.
Are there any discounts available?
Yes, many local cafes are offering discounts to passport holders during the event.
Which businesses are participating?
Participating businesses include The Brass Owl, Lockwood Home & Gift, Astor Apiaries, Pancakes Records, and Sacred Space Astoria, among others.
Are there other events happening in Astoria during this time?
Yes, Astoria is hosting several holiday markets and pop-ups, such as the Buzz & Pop(Up) at The Honey House and the Queens Craft Brigade Holiday Market at QED Astoria, offering a variety of handmade goods and festive treats.
Key Features of the Shop Small Retail Crawl
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | November 28 to December 7, 2025 |
| Participation | Shop at participating local stores and collect stamps on a passport |
| Rewards | Free Astoria tote or hat for filled passports; discounts at local cafes for passport holders |
| Participating Businesses | The Brass Owl, Lockwood Home & Gift, Astor Apiaries, Pancakes Records, Sacred Space Astoria, and more |
| Additional Events | Holiday markets and pop-ups like Buzz & Pop(Up) at The Honey House and Queens Craft Brigade Holiday Market at QED Astoria |
Now Happening on X
- @hurricanenita (November 30, 2024): Highlighting Small Business Saturday, Nita Strauss Villalta encourages shoppers to support small businesses during the holiday season by sharing details in the comments, focusing on local ventures in a celebratory post. View on X
- @34thStNYC (October 30, 2025): Announcing the return of Macy’s Holiday Square in Herald Square with over 100 vendors for holiday shopping, bigger and better than ever, opening sections starting November 8 for festive gifts and magic. View on X
- @BeanniBun (November 20, 2025): Sharing a holiday shop update from December 4-29 with new products on Etsy, and noting an in-person pop-up option for NYC fans to purchase items directly. View on X
- @MattMcNultyNYC (November 26, 2025): Discussing how local shops in New York are preparing for Small Business Saturday and the upcoming holiday shopping rush, linking to a Providence Business News article on the preparations. View on X
- @ProvBusNews (November 26, 2025): Noting the start of the holiday shopping season with local shops gearing up for Small Business Saturday and various holiday events, sharing a Providence Business News article. View on X
- @WaterStDistrict (November 24, 2025): Inviting people to Shop Small Business Saturday at Water Street Plaza on November 29 with local vendors, live entertainment, kids’ activities, and a festive holiday atmosphere. View on X
- @acwmc (November 24, 2025): Promoting the Bohemian Holiday Market for Small Business Saturday on November 29 with 75 vendors offering gifts, free entry, and coupons for the first 100 guests in a tote bag. View on X
- @TAPintoRahway (November 22, 2025): Covering Rahway’s annual Small Business Weekend kicking off the holiday season, encouraging exploration of local shops for unique gifts, events, and in-store experiences. View on X
- @hoensgardencntr (November 28, 2025): Inviting visitors to their Holiday Market on Small Business Saturday with local makers, food trucks, photo booth, coffee, and treats from a new winter menu. View on X
- @lakegeorge (November 25, 2025): Promoting Small Business Saturday on November 29 in Lake George with unique gifts, antiques, and holiday cheer to support the local community. View on X
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