GLUCKSTADT, MISS. — November 2, 2026 — The Gluckstadt Madison Business Alliance

(GMBA) invites residents throughout Gluckstadt, Madison County and surrounding communities

to celebrate Small Business Season, November 1 through December 31, 2026. This year's theme,

“It's the Thought That Counts,” encourages everyone to be intentional about supporting the local

businesses that help our communities thrive.

From finding the perfect Christmas gift and gathering around the table at a favorite restaurant to

utilizing local services, every decision to support a small business makes a difference. These

businesses do more than provide products and services. They create jobs, invest in our

communities, support local schools and nonprofits, and contribute to the unique character of the

places we call home.

“We are fortunate to have so many wonderful locally owned businesses throughout our

community,” said Elizabeth Tyler, Executive Director of the Gluckstadt Madison Business

Alliance. “When we choose to shop, dine and do business locally, we're doing more than making

a purchase. We're supporting our neighbors, their families and the businesses that give so much

back to our community. Small Business Season is a great reminder that even the smallest gesture

— a purchase, a referral or simply sharing a business on social media — can make a meaningful

difference.”

Celebrating the Holidays in Gluckstadt

As part of Small Business Season, the GMBA is working with local retailers, restaurants and

community partners to encourage residents to discover all that Gluckstadt and the surrounding

area have to offer.Several holiday shopping opportunities and community celebrations are planned, including:

• Christmas Open House | November 13–14: Kick off the holiday shopping season by

visiting participating local retailers, discovering new merchandise and enjoying the

festive atmosphere.

• Thanksgiving Night Out | November 26, 8 p.m. – Midnight: A special evening of

shopping at participating businesses to begin the Christmas shopping season.

• Small Business Saturday Shop Hop | November 28: Explore local shops, discover

unique gifts and support the entrepreneurs who invest in our community.

• Gluckstadt Christmas Parade | December 5, 3 p.m.: Celebrate the season with the City

of Gluckstadt's “Storybook Christmas” parade.

The GMBA will also highlight gift ideas, local shopping opportunities and participating

businesses throughout the season on its social media platforms.

Small Actions Make a Big Difference

Supporting small businesses doesn't always require spending money. Residents are encouraged to

share a local business's social media post, leave a positive and honest review, recommend a

favorite business to a friend or simply thank a business owner for their investment in the

community.

“Small businesses are the heart of our community, and their success benefits all of us,” Tyler

added. “One of the things we love about Gluckstadt and Madison County is the way our

businesses and residents support one another. When we work together, we create a stronger

business community and a stronger place to live.”

The GMBA encourages everyone to make supporting local businesses a priority throughout the

holiday season and beyond.

For information about participating businesses, holiday events and shopping opportunities, visit

www.gluckstadtba.com and follow the Gluckstadt Madison Business Alliance on Facebook and

Instagram.

About the Gluckstadt Madison Business Alliance

The Gluckstadt Madison Business Alliance (GMBA) is the official business organization serving

the City of Gluckstadt and businesses throughout Madison County and the surrounding region.

Established in 2022, the GMBA is dedicated to “Growing Business and Strengthening

Community” by connecting businesses with one another and with the community. Through

networking opportunities, business education, marketing initiatives, community events and

strategic partnerships, the Business Alliance works to create an environment where businesses

can connect, grow and succeed.Learn more at www.gluckstadtba.com.

About Small Business Season

Small Business Season began with a simple belief: small businesses deserve more than a

moment. They deserve a season of support. What began as a vision in 2008 grew into a

movement in 2020, when communities rallied to keep small businesses alive during a global

crisis.

Today, Small Business Season continues its mission of helping business organizations spotlight

local businesses, inspire consumers and unite communities. From purchases and referrals to

reviews and words of encouragement, the campaign celebrates the many ways communities can

support the small businesses that are the backbone of th