Jacksonville Hosts Museum Store Sunday to Promote Local Artisans and Holiday Shopping

Jacksonville Joins Global Shopping Event to Support Local Artists

In Jacksonville, four local museums are gearing up to participate in Museum Store Sunday, a global initiative aimed at promoting local artists and craftspeople. This year’s event will take place on Sunday, December 1, drawing attention to the importance of supporting local businesses while encouraging meaningful holiday shopping.

Who is Involved?

Participating institutions include the Cummer Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), the Museum of Science and History (MOSH), and the Beaches Museum. These museums will collectively promote unique shopping experiences that highlight locally-made products and artistic creations.

What to Expect

This year marks the eighth iteration of Museum Store Sunday, with over 2,100 museum stores participating across 25 countries and five continents. Each store will offer shoppers exclusive discounts and opportunities to purchase unique gifts that reflect the richness of regional artistry. For example, the Cummer Museum will offer a 25% discount on all products, regardless of whether they are bought in-store or online.

Special Features at the Cummer Museum

During open hours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Cummer Museum will showcase works from seven local artisans. Attendees can shop for items like Kisanii Handbags by Liz Greene and fiber art from Billie McCray, all available at a discount. By participating in this event, not only do local artists gain exposure, but the community also retains a significant portion of the revenue generated during the event.

Economic Impact of Local Shopping

A study conducted by American Express in 2022 revealed that $0.68 of every dollar spent at a small business in the U.S. remains within the local community. This statistic underscores the economic importance of supporting local artisans. Susan Tudor, director of retail and visitor experience at the Cummer, mentioned that the museum has seen significant increases in store sales during Museum Store Sunday, highlighting its impact on local revenue.

The Growth of Museum Store Sunday

Since its inception in 2017, Museum Store Sunday has witnessed remarkable growth, with participation from cultural institutions tripling. On average, international museums have recorded a 45% increase in in-store net sales in 2023 compared to the previous year. Tudor noted, “When we started eight years ago, we saw triple digit increases. It’s a major part of our business now.”

Shopping with Purpose

The 2024 iteration of the event has adopted the slogan “Shop with Purpose,” which aims to promote both economic sustainability and cultural engagement. Tudor emphasizes the importance of ecologically conscious products, such as blankets made from recycled water bottles and wood pens crafted from trees struck by lightning. This reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

Future Developments

Looking ahead, Tudor expressed interest in enhancing the event through potential collaborations. One idea includes a stamp system that encourages visitors to explore various participating museums in Duval County. Such initiatives aim to boost local tourism and community participation in cultural events.

This Museum Store Sunday presents an excellent opportunity for Jacksonville residents to shop locally and support their community while finding unique holiday gifts. By participating, individuals not only enjoy great deals but also contribute to the sustainability of local artists and cultural institutions.