Big box stores and national retailers might claim the day after Thanksgiving as their own, but Saturday is all about the little guy.

This year marks the second annual Small Business Saturday, which is promoted by American Express as a day where shoppers can support their local businesses.

“Small business is the engine of job creation in the US economy,” said Kenneth I. Chenault, the chairman and CEO of American Express, in a news release. “By spreading the word about Small Business Saturday, we can help raise awareness about the critical role small businesses play in cities and towns across the country at a time when they need support the most.”

Across the nation and in Suffolk, small businesses will offer deals of their own with hopes of generating business for the holiday season.

Even the gift shop at Riddick’s Folly is getting in on the action by offering 30 to 75 percent off of merchandise.

Brenda Gillihan, the owner of Bon Vivant Market in the Governor’s Pointe stores, said she thinks having a day to promote small businesses is a great idea.

“I think it’s wonderful American Express is promoting small businesses,” she said. “The awareness — you can never discount that.”

While Bon Vivant isn’t having specific specials that day, Gillihan said, the store is offering holiday deals.

Gillihan said she thinks the great thing about small businesses is that they offer unique gifts you can’t find everywhere.

“It’s not just another shopping experience,” she said.

For more information on Small Business Saturday, visit www.smallbusinesssaturday.com.