The first tree lighting ceremony in the city took place in Park Slope Saturday.
The 22-foot Christmas tree on 5th Avenue and 4th Street was donated by local shop owners as part of Small Business Saturday.
American Express launched the event in 2010 to help local economies during the recession.
The all-day festivities also included free treats, live music and an appearance by Santa Claus.
Business owners say the event highlights the importance of supporting local shops.
"You know if you support your small businesses, your community is stronger," said Mark Caserta, Executive Director of Park Slope Fifth Avenue Business Improvement District. "Our small businesses are the anchor of our community. If they weren’t here, our lives would be a lot more difficult. You couldn’t walk to corner and get your milk or your coffee, you’d have to drive in a car to go somewhere.”
The Park Slope Business Improvement District considers the neighborhood to be the epicenter of the Shop Local/Shop Small movement.
Organizers say Park Slope has 520 independent shops, bars, and restaurants.