Black Friday has become a month-long event for many businesses, so the allure of standing in a long line early Friday morning has faded for many shoppers.

But several retailers will have first-come, first-served deals this Friday.

Local shoppers should not forget another opportunity in a relative newcomer, however — Small Business Saturday.

It’s wedged between Black Friday and Cyber Monday, but easily is one of the most important shopping days of the year. Begun in 2010, the one-day weekend focus on shopping locally has proven itself a great way to support one’s own community by shopping where purchasers live. At least a portion of money spent with local vendors stays in the local community, showing back up in education, churches, community projects and more retail opportunities.

“We are fortunate in Brookhaven to have a great, locally-owned retail mix with some great products and great shopping experiences,” said Brookhaven-Lincoln County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Garrick Combs. “There’s no reason to leave town.”