The Week Before Christmas: Holiday Lights, Snow, and Last-Minute Magic
It’s that time of year again. Twinkling lights adorn the trees on every street corner, the scent of gingerbread villages wafts through the crisp winter air as shoppers bustle by. Voices of carolers echo through the Pike/Pine corridor while snow falls on the east side of town at Snowflake Lane.
There are those of us who have started purchasing gifts months in advance to prepare for the season…and then, there are those of us who wait to think about it until a few days prior. Fear not, fellow last-minute shoppers! Seattle is jam-packed with local shops for everyone and we’ve got a guide to help alleviate your shopping stress.
Just a portion of the many sweet treats available at Sunny Honey Company. Photo by Alexis Beeton
We all have that friend who is not only a lover of great beer and the outdoors, but is also always on the hunt for the next best sustainable vessel. What better way to celebrate them than with a six-pack of reusable tall boys or a double wall insulated growler from Miir? Swing by the flagship store to check out their wide assortment of growlers ranging in nearly every size, a variety of colors and choices upon choices of local brews to fill them with. Every purchase you make also contributes to the three percent of total revenue the company gives back to organizations dedicated to sustainable empowerment and the community. **Bonus: if you pop by on a Sunday, you’re a quick 10-minute jaunt to the Fremont Sunday Market.
Looking for something a little simpler that’s sure to sweeten someone’s day? Stop by the Sunny Honey Company located in Pike Place Market to take your pick of rotating seasonal honeys from around the area. Pair it with a wooden honey dipper and a jar of dried strawberries from Sosio’s Fruit & Produce and voilà, you’ve got a thoughtfully (and adorably) packaged gift filled with Seattle flavor! Even better, both companies ship nationwide for those out-of-towners who can’t get enough of these local goodies.
The way to the Producers Hall at the MarketFront Photo by Alexis Beeton
Chocolate infusion kits from indi chocolate make the perfect holiday gift Photo by Alexis Beeton
While you’re in the neighborhood, wander on down to the newly expanded MarketFront where you’ll find indi chocolates nestled in the back of the Producers Market. Browse their chocolate-based lotions, lip balms, dark chocolate bars, homemade marshmallows, and a personal favorite, their cacao infusion kits. If you’re feeling especially generous, stop by Glass Distillery or Westland Distillery to pick up locally distilled vodka or whiskey to pair with the kit. To ensure that you’re picking the best possible liquor for this boozy delight, indulge yourself in a distillery tour. After all, it’s important you know what you’re giving to your loved ones!
If you’re still feeling uninspired, make your way over to Made in Washington for one of their artfully designed and customizable gift baskets. Featuring everything from coffee and hand-blown glass art, to smoked salmon and all things quintessential to Washington State, you’re bound to leave with your hands full.
No matter what route you choose, keep it simple. Keep it uniquely Seattle.
