WEST DES MOINES, Iowa- Local businesses in Valley Junction are expecting a large turnout of community members on Small Business Saturday.

The Historic Valley Junction is known for being a hub for small businesses in West Des Moines. Executive Director, Steve Frevert, said they’re hosting several events this weekend to encourage people to shop locally.

“We’re known as the premiere shopping district in the Metro, so small business Saturday is hugely important to the small businesses here,” he said.

They kicked off the day with the Running of the Reindeer. Around 20 people participated in the event. People were able to run or walk three blocks alongside the storefronts.

The winner of the race and the best adult and child holiday costume each received a $100 cash prize.

One of the small businesses shoppers will see in Valley Junction is Harlow and James. Co-owner Brenda Garrison said they are the only shop in the Metro for plus-sized people.

“We are the people who support your community. We are the people giving donations to your kids teams, so it means a lot of us when people shop small and shop local because it is giving back to your community as well,” said co-owner Kelly Eddy.

All shops in Valley Junction are open on Saturday by 10 a.m.