Local shops on 19th Street thrive as Bakersfield’s holiday shopping hub

BAKERSFIELD, Calif KBAK/KBFX — While the holidays are in full effect and so are shoppers finding the best deals. Whether you’re a fan of the Black Friday deals or scored on Cyber Monday, there are local stores that are open during this holiday season.

In the heart of Downtown, it’s shops like the ones along 19th Street that define what Bakersfield is all about. While it’s easier to shop online now a days, you may still find a great deal right here in the community.

Within its’ first year, 19th Street Antiques has shown its importance to the community as it keeps downtown alive by offering local shopping options, especially during the holiday season.

“Keeping small businesses going, keep the money generating,” said 19th Street Antique Owner, Shaun Perdue. “Downtown is a good vibe, really good vibe, lot to offer. This stuff has pretty much been around here for 75 years, and still here today. I would say about 90% of the stuff is from Bakersfield, so it’s nice to see that generating too.”

Just next door, unlike franchise hairstylists, locally owned Blackboard Barber Shop emphasizes the importance of staying open during holidays and developing relationships.

“Coming here, outside of supporting local, and that’s like the biggest thing, we take the time to get to know our clients and build that rapport and understand why these events are important for them and celebrate with them and just be there with them,” said Blackboard Barber Shop Barber, Chad Grady. “And it’s a little more personal.”

Another way to keep the community involved, Jerry’s Pizza will have their Christmas pajama takeover on December 21, inviting the public to bar-hop and shop at local businesses, including about 40 participating stores. The event aims to boost holiday shopping and support small businesses.

“We’re just trying to get people to do all their last-minute shopping here downtown,” said Jerry’s Pizza Manager, Amy Luna. “Skip them all, shop small, that’s what we’ve been trying to go for. And then a lot of stores are doing discounts too, whenever you go in that day in your Christmas pajamas.”

Come on down, and see what these local stores have. Who knows, you may l like what you’ll find out on the streets of Bakersfield.