There’s never been a better time to get an early start on holiday gift shopping. With restrictions on the number of people who can visit a store or shop at the same time and potential shipping delays due to the ongoing influx of items ordered online, 2020 is a smart year to plan ahead when it comes to finding thoughtful gifts for friends and family this holiday season.
Stumped for ideas? We’ve rounded up a selection of places to shop (both virtually and in-person) for unique, creative, stylish and elegant gift options for everyone on your list. Best of all, all of these choices are locally-owned, so you can support small, independent Toronto businesses while you do your holiday shopping.
One of a Kind Holiday Show
Toronto’s One of a Kind Holiday Show has gone digital, and you can shop its selection of unique gifts from exhibitors’ virtual booths. The show features over 700 makers selling Canadian-made products, from accessories and apparel to art, ceramics, home goods, personal care products and more. As its name suggests, this is a great place to find truly one-of-a-kind gifts that are sure to delight!
Trinity Bellwoods Flea Market
The Trinity Bellwoods Flea Market is an exciting monthly market hosted at The Great Hall on Queen Street West. Its Christmas Is Coming market takes place this coming Sunday (November 22nd) and features shopping, drinks, local food and music. With 100+ curated vendors (including artisans, makers, vendors and small businesses of Toronto) selling local, handmade gifts, it’s the perfect place to find something for everyone on your list – from home décor, artwork, pottery, Christmas tree ornaments and candles to jewellery, skincare products, gourmet hot sauces, pastries, coffee and more. COVID-19 safety precautions are in effect.
Bloor West Flea Market
The Bloor West Flea Market is another opportunity to shop in person for unique gifts from Toronto-based vendors. This intimate market is taking place on Sunday, November 29th at Clinton’s Tavern, in the heart of Bloor West between the iconic Annex and Christie Pitts neighbourhoods, in Toronto’s beloved Korea Town. Check out the market to find beautiful handmade gifts from fashion, art, food and vintage craft sellers.
The Handmade Market
The online Handmade Market features over 220 Canadian makers, artisans and fine artists, so you can find beautiful and distinctive gifts from the comfort of your own home while supporting local small businesses. From baby and kids products to special treats for pets to food, green living, collectibles and more, this market has an incredible selection of products that will put you in the holiday mood in no time.
The Drake General Store
This iconic Toronto staple, once the gift shop for the Drake Hotel, now has several locations that are part flea market stand, part museum shop, part classic general store and part traditional hotel gift shop all rolled up into one. The Drake General Store has a great selection of fun gifts and Canadiana, and there’s something for everyone – even for those difficult-to-shop-for people. Shop online or visit one of their locations in person.
Holiday Fair in the Square
Nathan Phillips Square in downtown Toronto is a favourite place to gather during the holiday season, as the rink sparkles with lights and a large holiday tree is on display. This year will be a little different, and the Holiday Fair in the Square has gone virtual. Shop online for all kinds of Canadian-made goods, from artwork and winter wear to gourmet foods, unique cocktail ingredients, fancy teas, home goods and more.
The Eco Lifestyle Market
This holiday market takes place on Sunday, December 13th at Toronto’s Great Hall and makes giving greener gifts this holiday season fun and easy. With a curated selection of Toronto’s finest local, handcrafted, sustainable, eco-friendly and wellness goods vendors, the Eco Lifestyle Market offers a day of delicious local eats, local vendors and holiday cheer.
Skip the mall this holiday season and get that one-of-a-kind gift right here in your own backyard.
Have you started your holiday shopping this year? Join us on our social media pages (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram) and let us know!