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The Historic Gilbert District will participate in Shop Small Saturday.

The Historic Gilbert District will participate in Shop Small Saturday on Nov. 25.

Locally owned businesses in the historic Gilbert District make it worthwhile to shop small during the traditional post-Thanksgiving shopping frenzy.

Shoppers will be encouraged to patronize small and local businesses.

“The shops here are unique and have things you can’t get anywhere else,” said Denise Fairweahter, the neighborhood champion. “There is a place for Internet shopping, but nothing can replace going into a store and looking, and feeling, and touching and seeing the item you want to purchase.”

Shop Small Saturday was created in 2010 by American Express, but businesses do not have to accept American Express to participate in a neighborhood event. Since 2012, neighborhoods nationwide have been encouraged to host events to unite their communities and encourage local shopping.

The bustling Historic Gilbert District businesses at the vibrant intersection of Broadway and Holladay Drive will joyfully showcase the event with enchanting window posters and window displays.

A historic district is preserved due to its historical, architectural, or cultural significance. They play a crucial role in maintaining the heritage and character of a town.

The district features a unique collection of historic buildings, structures, and landmarks, providing a glimpse into the past and allowing visitors and residents to appreciate a place’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Appreciating the reserved parking for the Historic Gilbert District of downtown Seaside.

Dedicated parking is to be found on the corner of Holladay and Oceanway, thanks to the Gilbert Block.

Walk east on Broadway over the Necanicum River, and you’re in a very different world — the oldest part of Seaside, to be exact. Seaside’s mayor from 1912 to 1916, Alexandre Gilbert, rebuilt the four-block Gilbert District at the intersection of Broadway and Holladay Drive after the city’s big fire in 1912. Today the Gilbert District is thriving with vibrant restaurantsart galleriesboutiques, and antique stores. More than 30 local businesses call this historic district home. Here’s how to spend a few hours poking around. 

Stroll across the arched Broadway Bridge and see the Gilbert Block Building, est. 1914, and Kirwen Building, est. 1913,  the Wheatley-Desler Building, est. 1914,  the Menzel Building est.1913, old Seaside City jail, est. 1914, and the old Seaside firehouse, est. 1914 on the corner of Highway 101 and Broadway Street.