'Cash Mob' To Hit Local Shop On Saturday

You may be familiar with flash mobs, the recent phenomenon where hordes of people convene at a location and spontaneously dance or sing—but have you ever heard of a cash mob?

Neither had Carroll Gardens Patch until a tip was sent to us from a local organizer planning one for the weekend.

"The goal is to create a fun way for people in the community to get together and show support for local businesses," said Ben Rossen, host of the event and founder of Smallknot.com, an online social-lending platform. "It's like a flash mob, but instead of lots of people suddenly dancing, they're showing up at a local retailer and spending some money!"

Rossum noted that there is no fee to attend the cash mob and no minimum for how much to spend at the designated shop. In fact, you'll want to keep a few bills handy for the after party.

"Afterwards, everybody goes to a nearby bar or restaurant to celebrate and make new friends," said Rossen. "We're expecting 20 to 30 people to join this weekend's event."

The actual merchant destination that will be "cash mobbed" is kept a surprise until the very last minute. But for those interested in participating, the meeting point is  at 227 Smith St. at the corner of Butler St. Attendees should arrive by 4:00 p.m.

"We will also tweet the location of the cash mob shortly before 4:00 p.m. on @CashMobBKLYN and @Smallknot on Twitter," said Rossen. 

Would you ever attend a cash mob? Let Patch know what you think.