Snow helps some, hurts other Ballard businesses

The threat of snow followed by a verifiable snow event today is a mixed blessing for Ballard businesses. We just returned from a walk around Ballard Ave. and Market St., and the sidewalks were nearly empty. Some shops we spoke with told us the weather has put a damper on business. A handful of shops were closed, most likely because employees couldn’t make it to work.

Others, however, said many Ballard residents who stayed home from the storm have been browsing local shops, and business has been busier than the average weekday. Many neighborhood coffee shops, too, have been packed. And Zak’s Burgers, where we ate lunch, was plenty busy.

One thing is clear: Christmas is just a week away, and it’s more important than ever to Buy in Ballard. Many independent and locally-owned businesses along Ballard Ave. and Market St. are staying open later tonight (Thursday) until 9 p.m. So drive carefully, enjoy the snow and support our local businesses.

Meanwhile, a bigger storm is predicted for late Saturday into Sunday, which could throw a wrench into the last big shopping weekend before the holidays.