Stores in downtown Harrisonburg stayed open late Friday and offered special deals in an effort to get people to visit local stores.

"It's been very busy," said Karen Mast, of Ten Thousand Villages.

It's been busy and profitable for many downtown Harrisonburg small businesses.

The 'Shop Til You Drop' Event - encouraged people to put their money back into the local economy.

"For every $100 you spend locally, $68 goes back to the local community with payroll taxes and other expenditures. If you spend that at a big chain store, only $43 goes back to the local community," said Jen Andrews, owner of Dragonflies Toy Store.

Anna Pelitier, owner of Mint, came up with the idea to host the event.

"I just thought it would be fun to have an event where all the shops stayed open late, just to give the holiday shoppers a little something to look forward to," said Pelitier.

"I'm in classes all day, so it was really nice to have long hours where i can actually leave from school and come here to shop," said Morgan Privott, a JMU student.

TV 3's Litsa Pappas and Holly Suthers even found some great deals.

"This dress is amazing," said Suthers.

"I really like that dress. It would look great with some tights underneath and some black shoes," said Pappas.

Workers at Ten Thousand Villages say they were surprised at the turnout.

"We've had more people in this store than we often even have on a Saturday," said Mast.

For many shoppers, the experience opened new doors.

"I found stores i never knew existed, which is great. I found this place which is wonderful! I bought a few things. I got a really good deal and for a good cause. I love Ten Thousand Villages anyway,"said Jamie Wyatt.

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