"Shop local" has been the rallying cry practically since shops were invented (although, to be fair, there was a day when pretty much anything that was done was done locally). But increasingly that rallying cry is gaining traction, as people put their dollars outside of their districts.
Santa Monica is pausing to pay tribute to its own, to the shops and stores and crafters who make a living, and homes, in the area, or at least nearby. The Buy Local Expo, which is happening on Saturday, March 19 on Third Street Promenade, is about shopping, yes, but also about community. And free stuff, too.
There will be free performances going down, and demos, and, for early arrivees, a goodie bag. But the Promenade isn't the only center of action; Main Street, Pico, and Montana Avenue will have various sidewalk sales and musicians strumming and local love.
Plus: There's an airport artwalk, too, with some 60 artists displaying work.
Pheee-you. Big day. We hope Santa Monica gets a well-deserved rest after this. Maybe take Sunday, March 20 off. Oh wait. That's right. The community is the end point for the LA Marathon, and is sure to be as bustling on Sunday.
Santa Monica, we salute you, and your local-nice, marathon-welcoming ways. All in one weekend. Props.
