As the holiday season approached, San Francisco buzzed with anticipation for the most wonderful time of the year. This year, the City's residents were determined to make a difference by participating in Small Business Saturday on November 25, celebrating and supporting the local shops that add character to their communities.
The streets of San Francisco were adorned with festive decorations, and the air was filled with the scent of holiday treats. The Small Business Saturday spirit was palpable, and residents were eager to redirect their holiday shopping from the big-box or online retailers to the heart and soul of their local communities.
The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) joined the cause, encouraging everyone to "shop small" and support businesses served by their clean energy programs, CleanPowerSF and Hetch Hetchy Power. To guide shoppers on this festive adventure, we’ve highlighted several small businesses that not only contribute to the local economy but also embrace the power of cleaner energy.
Coffee & Baked Goods
The day began with a visit to Red Bay Coffee, located inside the iconic Ferry Building and powered by Hetch Hetchy Power. With every sip, customers knew they were not only enjoying a delicious cup of coffee but also supporting a business served by clean energy. And what’s coffee without baked goods!? Hop on Muni’s N Judah (also powered by Hetchy) and head to Pineapple King Bakery in the Outer Sunset, where the sweet scent of freshly baked pineapple buns and egg tarts fills the air and draws in shoppers near and far.
Holiday Party Catering
Now fueled by coffee and sweets, head on over to Civic Center for some holiday shopping! Next on the list is Burke & Black, a Black, woman-owned catering business and CleanPowerSF customer that is known for artfully prepared grazing tables and charcuterie boards and boxes. All the makings of a great gift or perfect addition for your next holiday party.
Food for the Whole Family
With gifts secured and ready for more, shoppers made their way to the Mission District for some delicious dining options. First up was Senor Sisig, a popular food truck serving mouthwatering Filipino-Mexican fusion dishes. Followed by, La Palma, another culinary gem powered by CleanPowerSF, offering a taste of traditional Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.
Holiday Fun
As laughter echoed through the air, the community continued their Small Business Saturday journey to Mission Bowling Club, a lively spot that combines the fun of family bowling and San Francisco’s food scene under one roof. To wrap up Small Business Saturday, shoppers hopped on Muni’s 22 bus line and headed to Sheba’s Piano Lounge in the heart of the Fillmore District, where they discovered a vibrant atmosphere offering live music and entertainment, powered by CleanPowerSF.
As the day unfolded, the community of San Francisco reveled in the joy of supporting local businesses that make up the diverse fabric of our neighborhoods. The success of Small Business Saturday was not just measured in purchases but in the shared smiles, laughter, and connections formed as residents came together to celebrate the spirit of the season and their vibrant local community.
Happy Holidays from the SFPUC family to yours!