Blue Laws Hold Massachusetts and Rhode Island Back on Black Friday
J. T. Carstensen, GoLocalProv Contributor
Blue Laws Hold Massachusetts and Rhode Island Back on Black Friday
The two New England states are among the very last in the country with blue laws preventing retailers from being open on Thanksgiving Day, or Christmas Day for that matter. (Only Maine has similar statewide restrictions, with a notable exception carved out for L.L. Bean.)
For many years, this presented no impediment to the unofficial kickoff of holiday shopping season, as stores would typically open at 6 a.m. the day after Thanksgiving. In 2011, a slew of stores moved the goalposts by opening at midnight on Friday.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTBut it was just last year that big box retailers finally declared themselves open for Thanksgiving Day business, with Walmart led the charge. It’s a phenomenon that some are calling Black Friday Creep, and shoppers here are going to miss out that early action.
That’s fine with Stuart Loosemore, of the Worcester Chamber of Commerce, and he doesn’t believe he’s alone.
When asked if local businesses have stated a desire for these laws to be overturned, he says “I’ve never heard anything from membership in my two years here.”
The desire doesn’t seem to be there on the part of shoppers either. “People aren’t clamoring to having the blue laws overturned.”
“I don’t think people are sitting around the table thinking ‘Oh, no, Thanksgiving is ruined!’ because they can’t go shopping.”
A Different View In Rhode Island
Not necessarily true, says Paul DeRoche of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce.
“This is a time that teens and college students might want to get away from their families, and from football” he said of Thanksgiving evening. “It’s almost like a social event for them. It’s a very successful time for stores.”
Furthermore, he sees the state losing out on consumer money in communities like Westerly, where a quick drive will take shoppers to stores in Connecticut that are opening as early as 3pm on Thanksgiving Day.
Connecticut abandoned its blue laws, which dated back to the 17th century, in 2012. It’s a measure that their governor, Dannel Malloy, expects will result in an extra six to eleven million dollars annually (though this is primarily due to increased liquor sales, rather than extra Black Friday shopping time).
Black And Blue
Still, though statewide restrictions on retail business are increasingly rare, they continue to endure in some unexpected places. Take for instance, New Jersey’s Paramus Park Mall. Despite its location in an affluent, densely-packed suburb of New York City, Paramus Park has been closed every Sunday since it opened in the early ‘70s. Residents there have had multiple opportunities to overturn the law via a voter referendum. Perhaps owing to the peaceful setting of a city where no shopping is taken place, the measures were defeated soundly each time.
The prevailing attitude doesn’t seem to be much different in these parts, at least not yet.
DeRoche says he doesn’t anticipate any change for “probably the next five years.”
“Rhode Island is a small, traditional state…I’ve done my research, talked to legislators, to consumers. The desire’s just not there right now.”
When asked if there was any urge for the state to ditch its blue laws before neighboring Massachusetts does, he responded flatly, “no.”
It would probably taken even longer up in Massachusetts anyway, according to Loosemore. If it ever happens at all.
“If the market demanded it, I’m sure there would be more talk about over turning it. If someone wants something, and the legislature is resisting it, there are ways to put a petition on the ballot. If society wanted it, it would happen.”
“I certainly don’t begrudge people wanting to shop,” he adds. “It’s a phenomenal shopping day. It’s a great money maker for businesses, it’s a great day for deals. And I’m glad it’s on the day after Thanksgiving. But let’s enjoy the holiday first, then move on to Christmas.”
“Sometimes, we all need to stop and smell the turkey.”
A Shopper's Dream
Kittery Outlets
Kittery, ME
The Kittery Outlets in Kittery ME is a shopaholic’s paradise! Located only 1.5 hours from Worcester and 2 hours from Providence, so much is so close. Choose from great outlet stores—with great outlet prices—like Levi’s, Coach, Old Navy, LOFT and more. If you are looking for something more outdoorsy, be sure to check out the Kittery Trading Post, which carries outdoor apparel and equipment to please even the pickiest New Englander. Oh, and there’s a Lindt Chocolate Outlet store—enough said.
306 US Route 1, Kittery, Maine. 1 (888) KIT-TERY.
Church Street
Burlington, VT
Burlington is home to great universities, Lake Champlain and is the birthplace of Phish. But did you know that this Vermont city also has first class shopping? Church Street Marketplace, an outdoor shopping haven, is the center of the action. Perouse the cobblestone streets, featuring great shops like Urban Outfitters, Saratoga Olive Oil Company, Sweet Lady Jane, and more. If the weather doesn’t cooperate with outdoor shopping, pop into the Burlington Town Center Mall to check out the 802 Store—a place dedicated to everything Vermont.
Photo: AlexiusHoratius
Settler’s Green
North Conway, NH
North Conway, tucked away in the White Mountains of New Hampshire is the perfect weekend retreat. There are picturesque mountain views and some much needed peace and quiet. Shopaholics need not fear, though, because this little New England town has got their back. Settlers Green Outlet Village is chock full of all your brand name favorites, plus some specialty shops well worth taking a peek in. In total, there are over 60 shops! If you’re got a sweet tooth, be sure to stop into White Mountain Cupcakery—their cupcakes are the best around. Don’t forget, New Hampshire shopping is tax free!
Route 16, North Conway, NH. (603) 356-7031.
Photo: rickpilot_2000/flickr
Westfarms Mall
West Hartford, Connecticut
Located in West Hartford, Ct, Westfarms Mall is only about an hour’s drive from Worcester and a two hour drive from Providence. This elegant shopping mecca is stocked with designer names and delicious dining. Makeup lovers will appreciate the handmade cosmetics at Lush while fashinistas will fall in love with the styles at Anthropologie. Of course, it never hurts to look inside Tiffany & Co. either...
1500 New Britain Ave., West Hartford, Connecticut. (860) 561-3024.
Providence Place Mall
Providence, RI
Okay, so this one is super close to home—but it had to be included! The Providence Place Mall is a destination that people from all around travel to visit, so why not take advantage of it if it’s close by? This multi-level shopping mall is any fashionista’s dream come true! Banana Republic, the Apple Store, dELIA*S, and Nordstrom are some retail favorites; while The Cheesecake Factory is a top choice for a bite to eat.
1 Providence Place, Providence, RI. (401) 270-1000.
Yankee Candle Vlg. Store
South Deerfield, MA
Here’s another one that is close enough to home to make it a great day trip! Yankee Candle Village Store in South Deerfield is a kid at heart’s dream come true! This place is in the Christmas spirit 365 days a year, featuring keepsakes and ornaments alongside 400,000 of your favorite Yankee Candle scented candles. Head out on Nov. 16, 17, 23, or 24 to see Annie—everyone’s favorite musical; or on November 30 to see Santa arrive by helicopter!
25 Greenfield Road, South Deerfield, Ma. (877)636- 7707.
Manchester Outlets
Manchester, VT
Manchester, Vermont, is a vibrant community nestled in a beautiful Vermont setting. Besides its rich history and fabulous mountainside location, Manchester is also home to Manchester Designer Outlets. MDO features a unique blend of specialty and designer stores, such as Michael Kors, Polo Ralph Lauren and Armani Outlet, alongside first class entertainment and dining. If you are a shopaholic who loves the outdoors and long, scenic rides—but don’t want to give up the convenience of a one stop shopping mall, this is the place for you!
97 Depot Street, Manchester Center, VT. 1 (800) 955-SHOP.
Newbury Street
Boston, MA
Boston is the largest city in New England, so of course it has to have larger than life shopping. Enter Newbury Street, an urban shopping favorite. Newbury Street is made up of 8 blocks of marvelous shopping and dining. Whether you go to Boston’s fashion district to window shop or splurge, there is something for everyone. Crush Boutique, Rinascimento, and Bobbles and Lace are just a few of the shopaholic approved boutiques that call Newbury Street home.
Newbury Street, Boston.
Photo: Rudi Riet/flickr
The Umbrella Factory
Charlestown, RI
Picture a place where you can get a henna tattoo; visit a petting zoo; listen to live acoustic music; peruse or purchase goods from all around the world—all in one place. This is all possible at the Fantastic Umbrella Factory in Charlestown, RI. This cool outdoor shopping bazaar and has been delighting visitors since 1968. Six separate shops and a café each have their own unique twist, making a trip to The Fantastic Umbrella Factory anything but ordinary.
4820 Old Post Road, Charlestown, RI. (401) 364-1060.
Cape Cod
Massachusetts
The magic of the cape has been delighting artists and poets for centuries. Of course it is befitting that they have inspired shopping options as well. From the whimsical and free to the beautiful and dramatic; if you can dream it chances are it is on Cape Cod. Looking for sea glass jewelry, Cape Cod bracelets, or other great gift ideas? Check out Heart of Stone in Sandwich. For great art, take a peek in the Coastal Craft Gallery in Orleans. If something offbeat is more your style, Cape Kaleidoscopes in Mashpee is a do not miss!
For more on Cape Cod Shopping, visit http://www.capecodchamber.org/.
Photo: Cape Cod Travel Guide
L.L. Bean
Freeport, ME
L.L. Bean has long been the pinnacle of New England retailers. The company’s flagship store, which is located in Freeport, Maine, is a destination for all things outdoors. Visitors are greeted by a giant boot before they walk into the multi-level store. Inside, there is a plethora of men’s, women’s, and kids clothing and equipment that puts other sportswear shops to shame. If you decide to stay in the area, be sure to pop back into the store throughout the week for special clinics and courses. Oh, and don’t worry about closing time. This store is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
95 Main Street, Freeport, Maine. (877) 755-2326.
Photo: Aude
Vermont Country Store
Weston, VT & Rockingham, VT
Sometimes there’s just nothing better than good old fashioned hospitality and great products. The Vermont Country Store, with locations in West and Rockingham, provides just that. The Orton family, who opened the first Vermont Country Store in Weston in 1946, are self proclaimed “Purveyors of the Practical and Hard to Find.” This store has got everything and anything that you can’t find anywhere else, from old-fashioned games and candy to high end, high quality wool apparel, to house wares and more. The Rockingham location is even complete with a covered bridge dubbed “The Kissing Bridge!”
657 Main Street, Weston, Vermont. (802) 824-3184.
1292 Rockingham Road, Rockingham, Vermont. (802) 463-2224.
Photo: appaloosa/flickr
Wesleyan Potters
Middletown, Connecticut
Do you love the feel and aesthetic of handmade pottery? If the answer is yes, Wesleyan Potters in Middletown, Connecticut, has got you covered. These guys have been the go-to specialists for pottery in New England since 1948. Take your pick of an assortment of beautiful crafts to give as gifts or keep for yourself. They are having a sale until December 15, so head over soon. They also offer tons of unique classes as well!
350 S Main Street, Middletown, Connecticut. (860) 344-0039.
Northeast Kingdom
Vermont
The Northeast Kingdom of Vermont is renowned for its striking views and world class winter sports opportunities. People flock here in the warmer months to bask in the sun; in the fall to take in the foliage; in the winter to fly to down the slopes. Why not come do all of that and more—plus get some shopping done? While you’re in the area, head to Stowe for upscale boutiques and specialty shops galore or head to Johnson for some warm country apparel at Johnson Woolen Mills. Designer shopping is located less than an hour away in the bustle of Burlington.
Bonus trip!
Fifth Avenue, NYC
No shopping getaway list could possibly be complete without 5th Avenue. Although this street is not located in New England, it is unrivaled for its shopping selection that is the epitome of upscale, elegant and classy. Where else in the world can you find Saks Fifth Avenue, Sephora, Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Prada, and Apple all on one street?
Photo: St. Simon/Flickr
