By SDCNN Staff

When it comes to holiday shopping, local merchants want to remind everyone that those special gifts can be found just up the street or around the corner.

That’s why community business districts are encouraging Uptown shoppers to visit small businesses in their own neighborhoods as they celebrate Small Business Saturday on Nov. 25.

Residents can enjoy a festive day of shopping and dining not far from their homes as participating businesses offer bargains, special activities and holiday fun.

Adams Avenue will celebrate its annual Spirit Stroll from 2-5 p.m. on Nov. 25. Tickets are $19. Guests will sample holiday cocktails from many of Adams Avenue’s talented bartenders selected from the local bars and restaurants. To purchase tickets and to learn more, visit the Adams Avenue Business Association website at adamsavenuebusiness.com.

The Hillcrest Business Association (HBA) also encourages residents to visit its local businesses throughout the holiday season. Its many members will be offering promotions, specials and deals as they celebrate Small Business Saturday on Nov. 25. Visit the HBA online at hillcrestbia.org.

The Mission Hills Business Improvement District (BID) will also participate in Small Business Saturday. More than 200 merchants will offer events, promotions and activities from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Mission Hills BID urges everyone who lives in Mission Hills to visit local businesses and “Sip and Shop the Neighborhood.” A free trolley will shuttle shoppers around Goldfinch, West Washington, West Lewis, Reynard Way and India Street. Find them online at missionhillsbid.com.

North Park’s merchants will celebrate the day by offering treats, drinks, discounts and pop-up live music as visitors explore the many diverse and unique “mom and pop” shops along its commercial district near University Avenue and 30th Street. A “Scavenger Hunt” will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and participants will have a chance to win prizes. For more information about North Park Main Street, visit northparkmainstreet.com.

American Express started Small Business Saturday eight years ago to get more customers to shop locally in an effort to boost sales for small merchants around the nation. An estimated 95 million paying customers shopped at small businesses during Small Business Saturday in 2015, according to American Express.