Instead of heading south to find deals on Black Friday, the Fernie Chamber of Commerce is encouraging people to stay and shop local.
The Black Friday event in Fernie, set for Nov. 27, features many local businesses and shops with a variety of promotions and deals, said Patty Vadnais, director aofthe Fernie Chamber of Commerce.
“We are planning a fantastic day in Fernie,” said Vadnais “We’ve got businesses signing on to offer promos and deals, typical to the Black Friday theme of getting a great deal. In addition to that, we are looking to make it a day to spend downtown.”
The Chamber has collaborated with local galleries to welcome people throughout the evening, and the Art Walk will be operating throughout downtown that evening. Along with that, there will be a screening of Elf at the Arts Station.
“We’re trying to make it a very fun day to explore Fernie, explore the shops, get some great savings and have a good time,” said Vadnais.
The Chamber is introducing draw prizes this year, enabling people to win goods from local shops.
“We’re putting together three draw prizes. Businesses in town are donating to the draw. People that are shopping at participating businesses, they can qualify for draw entry tickets and then go decide which of the three draws that they want to enter,” Vadnais said.
More people might be tempted to stay north of the border this year, as the Canadian dollar has lost value against the American one this year.
“This year, with the dollar being what it is, it’s a great time to stay local and not lose 30 per cent as soon as you go across the border,” said Vadnais.
The fourth annual Black Friday event will run from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Nov. 27