Shop Local This Holiday Season
Although this year may look a little different, the arrival of the holiday season can still evoke a sense of joy and wonder. The smell of crisp pine, freshly baked goods, and even the odd eggnog can only mean one thing: Christmas is coming. This year, more than ever, it is important to consider shopping locally for your holiday gifts.
In Parksville, it’s especially easy to support local thanks to a diverse selection of local creators and experiences. We’ve put together your ultimate holiday inspiration guide, with all of our favourite things that you can find in the community.
Culinary
With an abundance of local growers, there are a number of indulgent ways to savour what Parksville has to offer. Whether it’s handmade jam or delicious cured meat there are so many ways to give the gift of flavour!
Culinary Gift Ideas
- Choose a pre-packaged gift box bundle from Misguided Spirits Distillery.
- Purchase an assortment of local sweet treats from Swell Sweets.
- Build a charcuterie with local meat and cheese from Morningstar Farm.
- Gift a beer experience! Give a growler and a beer glass from Mount Arrowsmith Brewing Company.
- Purchase a Gift Certificate to one of our local restaurants for a loved one to enjoy take-out.
Adventure
Treat your loved ones to something they’ve never done before! Give the gift of memories, instead of material items. Whether they like the gentler side of nature or an adrenaline-filled day, there are plenty of tour options to help explore our area like never before.
Adventure Gift Ideas
- Gift a cave tour at Horne Lake Caves.
- Fly through the sky with a Zipline gift certificate to WildPlay.
- Give an alpine experience at Mount Washington to put towards skiing, snowboarding, or mountain biking.
- Plan a holiday walk through Milner Gardens & Woodland.
Relax & Renew
Instead of gifting a department store bath kit, consider a truly authentic spa experience, professional massage, or even a relaxing stay. What’s best of all, is these can be booked or redeemed at a future date!
Relax & Renew Gift Ideas
- Surprise your spouse with a getaway to Sunrise Ridge Waterfront Resort.
- Pick up a gift certificate for a manicure and pedicure, massage or facial from the Grotto Spa
Island Made
Essential oils, locally designed apparel, mugs thrown by local potters; these are just some of the many delights you can find in-store or online from many island-based artisans.
Island Made Gift Ideas
- Purchase a West Coast Tote subscription at Petal & Kettle.
- Book you and a loved one in for an art class with Oceanside Art Studio.
- Choose a pre-packaged Bundle from Faire Living for the ultimate home spa experience.
- Grab a bag of micro-roasted fair-trade coffee from French Press Coffee Roasters.
With online shopping, curb-side pick-up and socially distanced in-person shopping – it’s easy to check off everyone on your list. Please consider supporting local businesses this holiday season. We’re all in this together.
