Bugsy Sailor, right, owner of U.P. Supply Co., talks with customers recently. On Thursday, 906-Day will be observed in the local area, providing incentives for area shoppers. Sailor started 906-Day about six years ago. (Journal photo by Corey Kelly)

MARQUETTE — There are three famous digits tied to the identity of the entire Upper Peninsula.

The 906 area code has inspired business names, colloquialisms and even a holiday. On Thursday, in celebration of 906-Day, local and regional participating businesses will offer special shopping incentives.

Bugsy Sailor, owner of Upper Peninsula Supply Co. and founder of Plaidurday, started 906-Day on Sept. 6, 2012 when he realized that the date closely resembled the beloved area code.

Since then, he has developed the day as an economic driver for local business.

“It started as a U.P. black Friday-like-equivalent idea,” said Sailor.

In 2014, Sailor started actively recruiting others to take part in the holiday. He stated that participation “organically grew” as businesses got on board to celebrate.

Another intention Sailor has for 906-Day is to serve as a reminder for people to spend more time engaged in cultural activities.

“The other big part is playing up and encouraging people to do U.P. things, play cribbage, jump off Black Rocks or enjoy a local beer with a friend,” he said.

The U.P. Supply Co. will be offering $9.06 off of any order $30 or more purchased online or in-store on Thursday.

Similarly, business from Drummond Island to Ironwood will be discounting certain services and items. They include Bay Mills Resort in Brimley, the Escanaba Public Library, Beth Millner Jewelry, Stormy Kromer in Ironwood, Aurora Piercing Boutique, Delft Bistro, Drummond Island’s JeepEnd, The Fresh Coast Film Festival, Marquette Food Co-op, Wattsson and Wattsson Jewelers, Beacon House in Marquette, Escanaba Recreation Department and New Age Tattoo.

For information on the specific offers visit www.906day.com