MADISON, (WKOW) — The third annual Holiday Black Bazaar kicked off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Black Business Hub in Madison.

Camille Carter, president and chief executive officer of the Madison Black Chamber of Commerce, welcomed attendees to the event. She emphasized the importance of small and diverse businesses, 

“This community would not be the great community that it is without small and diverse and Black-owned businesses.” said Carter.

Business owners Lynell and Lakeisha Richardson shared their positive experiences as vendors.

“This is our third holiday bonanza with the chamber, and it’s been a wonderful experience,” Richardson said. “It’s always a wonderful thing when we can all come together and support each other. The community is real.”

Sam Rikkers, deputy secretary and chief operating officer of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, encouraged the community to shop locally.

“Every dollar that we spend at a small business in our community, stays in the community,” Rikkers said.

He highlighted the enjoyment of connecting with local business owners,

“It’s so much more fun” to shop small. Dr. Ruben L. Anthony Jr., president and chief executive officer of the Urban League of Greater Madison, described the event as “more than a market.” Rikkers said, “It’s a celebration of culture, creativity and community.”

The ceremony marked the official start of the two-day Holiday Black Bazaar in Madison.