Please provide some background information about Main Street Fort Dodge and its mission.

The Downtown Fort Dodge Self-Supported Municipal Improvement District became a Main Street Iowa district in 2017. Our mission is “Working to reclaim the downtown’s historical purpose and prosperity by revitalizing the culture and character of its original merchant district.” Affiliated with Main Street Iowa and Main Street America, the district encompasses 33 blocks, making Main Street Fort Dodge the third largest district in the state.

What specific events or activities are planned to promote shop small and shop local?

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, consumers spend an estimated $184 billion on Small Business Saturday nationwide. In Fort Dodge Small Business Saturday is one of the biggest sale days for our downtown merchants. Green State Credit Union and Main Street Fort Dodge will again be sponsoring the Merry Money giveaway on Saturday, Nov. 30. The first 40 shoppers arriviing at 10 a.m. at Green State’s 1207 Central Ave. location will receive a $25 gift certificate to spend at any participating downtown business all day Saturday.

Other returning events in 2025 are Sister Saturday in February and Mothers Day Downtown in May.

Why is shopping locally important during the holiday season?

Shopping locally helps you find unique quality gifts while supporting small businesses. The dollars spent in downtown Fort Dodge stay locally in our area. Approximately 50 percent of employees nationally work for a small business.

In our downtown, many merchants give back to the community by assisting with the Main Street Fort Dodge Promotion Team. This group hosts free family-oriented activities like the upcoming Santa Family Fun Night on Dec. 2 and the trick or treat event in October.

Are there incentives, like discounts, gift cards or loyalty programs that make shopping locally even more rewarding?

Yes, our holiday shopping punch cards are available at participating businesses on the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving. Every $10 spent equals one punch on the card. After five punches, you can turn in your punch card for a chance to win a gift basket.

How can the community get involved in supporting these local initiatives?

Event sponsors, monetary donations and in-kind donations of prizes or gift baskets are always needed. In addition, we are actively looking for volunteers to help plan and execute our Main Street Fort Dodge initiatives. Besides our Promotion Team, we also have teams focused on Economic Vitality, Design and Organization. Our volunteers play a crucial role in revitalizing our downtown and fostering a vibrant community.

Mary Green-Warnstadt is the executive director of Main Street Fort Dodge.