Hundreds of retailers and local businesses across Michigan will link arms to celebrate Buy Nearby Weekend from October 2-4 hosted by Michigan Retailers Association (MRA). The weekend connects shoppers with local small businesses and retailers across the state, raising awareness of the impacts of shopping at local businesses instead of online, while encouraging consumers to “Buy Nearby” and “Keep Your Money in Michigan!”
Buy Nearby Weekend is MRA’s annual celebration of Michigan’s retailers and local businesses, taking place on the first full weekend of October every year. The campaign promotes the “Buy Nearby” message, educating consumers on why it’s important to keep more of their shopping dollars in Michigan. Using statistics from the 2026 Buy Nearby Economic Impact Study, the weekend highlights what would happen if Michiganders shifted just 10% of their online shopping back to local businesses.
This year’s Buy Nearby Weekend celebration marks the 13th annual celebration and brings back the Shop 3 Challenge Punch Card Contest, giving shoppers a chance to win a $500 gift card. Shoppers can visit three (or more) Michigan-owned businesses during Buy Nearby Weekend for a chance to win a $500 gift card. The retailers listed on the winning card will receive prizes as well, either a $100 gift card or 1-year MRA membership.
“Michiganders are invited to take the ‘Shop 3 Challenge’ on Buy Nearby Weekend, by visiting at least three locally-owned retailers or small businesses,” said Vic Veda, MRA VP, communications.
“Collect a stamp or signature on your punch card at each visit, and enter to win a $500 gift card - just in time for the holiday season! The contest is an invitation to explore stores in your local community and see what gifts you can buy nearby instead of online.”
Shoppers can pick up a punch card at participating retailers and partners across the state of Michigan, or print their own on the Buy Nearby website at buynearbymi.com/bnw26. The webisite also provides information and contest rules, and a map of participating MRA member businesses. No purchase is required for contest entry.
Buy Nearby Weekend is MRA’s annual celebration of Michigan’s retailers and local businesses, taking place on the first full weekend of October every year. The campaign promotes the “Buy Nearby” message, educating consumers on why it’s important to keep more of their shopping dollars in Michigan. Using statistics from the 2026 Buy Nearby Economic Impact Study, the weekend highlights what would happen if Michiganders shifted just 10% of their online shopping back to local businesses.
This year’s Buy Nearby Weekend celebration marks the 13th annual celebration and brings back the Shop 3 Challenge Punch Card Contest, giving shoppers a chance to win a $500 gift card. Shoppers can visit three (or more) Michigan-owned businesses during Buy Nearby Weekend for a chance to win a $500 gift card. The retailers listed on the winning card will receive prizes as well, either a $100 gift card or 1-year MRA membership.
“Michiganders are invited to take the ‘Shop 3 Challenge’ on Buy Nearby Weekend, by visiting at least three locally-owned retailers or small businesses,” said Vic Veda, MRA VP, communications.
“Collect a stamp or signature on your punch card at each visit, and enter to win a $500 gift card - just in time for the holiday season! The contest is an invitation to explore stores in your local community and see what gifts you can buy nearby instead of online.”
Shoppers can pick up a punch card at participating retailers and partners across the state of Michigan, or print their own on the Buy Nearby website at buynearbymi.com/bnw26. The webisite also provides information and contest rules, and a map of participating MRA member businesses. No purchase is required for contest entry.
