After Thanksgiving, it's time for Black Friday and Small Business Saturday, marking the official start of holiday shopping.

While many people may be focused on hitting the Rhode Island malls on Black Friday, the state also has plenty of areas with independent businesses perfect for shopping on Small Business Saturday, an annual event on the Saturday after Thanksgiving that encourages the public to do their holiday shopping at small, locally-owned businesses.

Here are five of the best areas to shop at this Small Business Saturday.

Providence

Of course, downtown Providence is full of shops and restaurants, making it a great destination for a day of holiday shopping. Head to Thayer Street for a lineup of clothing and gift stores, or hop over to Westminster and Hope streets for unique bout

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