When it comes to shopping, one survey says Alexandria is right up there with New York and San Francisco. The city was selected as a top "shop small" city as part of a non-profit campaign underwritten by American Express.
Banners along Mt. Vernon Avenue in Del Ray and King Street in Old Town announce the honor.
They'll be up through the holiday season.
Alexandria was chosen because the vast majority of retailers in those areas are independently or regionally owned.
A recent survey finds a growing number of shoppers will go out of their way to support small local businesses.
Shoppers can take advantage of special promotions, free gifts, complimentary services and fun activities on "Shop Small Saturday" on Nov. 29.
Among the special promotions, shoppers can get a free Rebecca Minkoff "Shop Small" canvas tote bag when they bring two receipts from local Alexandria shops to the Alexandria Visitors Center, 221 King Street.
There's a limit of one bag per customer while supplies last.
