Staff photo by Fritz Busch Downtown shoppers stroll Minnesota Street sidewalks at Small Business Saturday. Many businesses offered sales incentives including free gifts and discounts.

NEW ULM — Very light snow flurries fell early Saturday afternoon as shoppers strolled downtown stores for discounts and free gifts.

The Christmas Haus Sales Associate Beth Watson said the store was busy with local people and shoppers from as far away as the Twin Cities and Sioux Falls, S.D.

“The grinch was here. He asked if our ornaments were breakable. Sales associate Barb Larson told him to get out of here. He grumbled and left,” said Watson.

Christmas Haus sales associates said popular store items included ginger cookies, glass ornaments and Advent calendars.

The store offered 20% discounts any one item except books on Small Business Saturday that featured 27 participating businesses and was sponsored by the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce.

“Lots of people came in to buy nut crackers and coo coo clocks too,” said Watson.

Inspired offered free gifts with $25 purchases.

“We had lots of local people and out of town visitors Friday and Saturday. Flowers, Christmas ornaments and children’s gifts were really popular, ” said Inspired owner Christina Schwab.

Gallery 512 Boutique was busy, offering free gifts with purchases and $5 off $30 purchases.

“It’s amazing. Lots of people showed up. Gifts and personal items were popular. We appreciate all the support for shopping local. People came from New Ulm, Sanborn, Granite Falls and Redwood Falls,” said Gallery 512 manager Beth Braulick.

Bailey Creek Boutique offered treats and beverages and $10 off purchases of $50 or more.

“It’s busy. Sweaters, jackets and coats are good sellers,” said Bailey Creek Boutique Sales Associate Ali Winter.