PITTSTON, Pa. — "I'd certainly rather come to a place where I know people, and I can walk around and feel safe and see interesting things that I wouldn't see somewhere like a big box place," said Cindy Baum, Duryea.
With the holiday season looming and more options to get deals online, small business owners in Pittston are offering deals for shoppers ahead of Black Friday.
"Pink Friday is a new initiative, and the thought behind that is to get people out to shop before they get out to spend all their money on black Friday to support small businesses," said Mary Kroptavich, Pittston Main Street Manager.
Signs highlighting huge savings, along with pink balloons, were placed outside of the different businesses participating in the first event.
At Evolve Fitness, customers could find name-brand sportswear as well as items that are one of a kind.
"We are right here, located right in downtown Pittston and the foot traffic has been great; everyone has been stopping in to check out what we have," said Jennifer Lombardo.
"I feel like small businesses get a little looked over on small business Saturday, so it's nice to get in before Black Friday, get in before everyone goes to the big box stores," said Brittney Erano, Grace and Park co-owner.
For Grace and Park co-owner Brittney Erano, the event has generated more foot traffic that will hopefully last throughout the holiday season and into the new year.
"Small businesses in Pittston are really the heart of Pittston; you don't see a lot of commercial named stores in the area. We love having our little Main Street community," said Erano.
Calling the day a success, business owners hope Pink Friday returns next year.