The Best Local Stores for Unique Holiday and Christmas Gifts

Business Features

It’s beginning to look a lot like holiday shopping sales out there! As our favourite shops and brands start rolling out their last big seasonal offerings of the year, it’s a bustling time for shoppers on the lookout for the perfect gifts to give everyone on their lists. Here in The Shipyards District, we not only benefit from having a ton of great stores within easy walking distance of one another, but when the holiday lights and decorations come out, this neighbourhood’s unique, local-owned businesses are particularly cozy and festive places to visit. 

 

Here are just a few of the go-to gift ideas you’re sure to find as you stroll along:

 

Fill Their Stockings With Beauty

The Shipyards District has more than a few ways to check the box for anyone in your life who enjoys the gift of beauty. You can snag them a gift card for salon services, or high-end haircare and styling products from The Studio Hair and Beauty, T’Sala Salon Spa, Joy Hair Studio, or any one of our other amazing salons and barbershops nearby! We also recommend a stop into Pretty Kitty, where you might scoop up a gift card for some expert brow, lash, and waxing services just in time to help them ring in a beautiful New Year.

Give The Gift Of Getting Fit

Got a health nut on your Christmas list this year? Check out Fuel Sports and Nutrition, where you’ll find a knowledgeable staff and a wide variety of workout and dietary supplements to fortify their fitness dedication. For those looking to tackle some exercise goals in 2024, consider an intro package for workout classes at Vibe Lounge, indoor cycling at Salted Cycle, or a gift membership to one of the heart-pumping fitness studios and gyms in the area.

Treat Your Pet Right

We never forget our furrier family members when it comes to gifting a little extra love for the holidays. In The Raw Pet Food on East 2nd Street is the perfect stop to pick up new treats, leashes, harnesses, or beds to give your dog or cat companion’s season four paws up. You can also pop by Waterfront Park Veterinary Clinic for any veterinarian-approved products, or specialty diet foods your pet might need. 

 

Load Up On Literary Love

If you’re looking for the kind of present that inspires adventure to unknown lands, comforts a friend when they need it most, or opens a mind to vast, new possibilities, look no further than a good book. Helicon Books and Phoenix Books have well-stocked and versatile collections to satisfy the most discerning, inquisitive, and imaginative tastes. Pete’s Collectibles is also a good bet for those comics fans, and you’re always sure to find some gorgeous art and coffee table books in the Polygon Gallery’s shop. 

 

Satisfy The Jewellery Sparkle

Maybe there’s someone special on your shopping list who deserves something fancy this year. That’s where Cassanova Jewelers really shines; from custom design and repair services to an exquisite collection of Canadian diamonds and precious gemstones, you’ll have more than enough sparkle to choose from. Keith Jack Gallery also offers stunning silver, gold and bronze jewellery, and Earth & Sol is a must-visit to find stunning pieces made from crystals and healing stones.  

 

Gift A Little Style and Fun For The Little Ones

No holiday gift list would be complete without something to spoil our youngest friends and family members with. Why not pick up a trend-setting ensemble at Oh La La Boutique, complete with stylish accessories and shoes for the babies and toddlers in your life? You might also head over to the Lonsdale Quay Market where Play And Learn offers board games, puzzles, and learning games for the slightly older kids in your pack. Finally, consider those stocking stuffers covered when you bring home homemade and imported sweets from Olde World Confections or treats from the candy section at Welcome Parlour.

 

Fuel Up Your Foodie Friends

When it comes to treating the culinary connoisseurs in your group, The Shipyards District has several options to help them get creative. Put together your own, or pick out a curated basket of bar or kitchen essentials, marinades, and seasoned rubs at Mo’s General Store. Maybe you want to give their cookware and kitchen tools an upgrade at Essential Kitchenware in the Lonsdale Quay Market or gift a delicious tasting selection of local and specialty honeys from Main Street Honey Shoppe. At the end of the day though, there’s really nothing a true foodie appreciates more than a great meal out; in that case, a gift card to one of North Vancouver’s world-class, fine-dining restaurants might really hit the spot.

 

For everyone on your holiday gift list this year, there’s no better neighbourhood to make the most of a shopping day than The Shipyards District. Check out our list of where to shop for last-minute gifts and don’t forget to check our seasonal holiday markets too! Our proud local businesses and artisans look forward to welcoming you in and helping to make your season memorable and bright.