Well, it’s official: Christmas Eve is two weeks away, Calgary. Ready or not, here it comes, and if you’ve got some last-minute gifts to buy, you’re not the only one.
Want to head to one neighbourhood to knock off all the presents on your gift list? We have a few spots in Calgary that are just the ticket. From artsy local neighbourhoods to tucked-away malls, here are Calgary’s top spots for some last-minute holiday shopping.
This neighbourhood is a holiday shopper’s paradise, with a range of stores and a focus on locally produced, well-crafted artisan goods. From handmade candles to designer stationery, giftable plants, vegan pastries, vintage furniture, an abundance of records, sustainable soaps and bath and body products, you can find it all on 9th Avenue.
Suggested stores: Plant, Stash, Canela Bakery, The Apothecary in Inglewood, Recess, Knifewear, Murphy’s Mid-Century Furniture, That Old Retro Store
In the heart of Chinatown lies a tucked-away shopper’s paradise, with collectable stores, dim sum and an abundance of items at every price point. You’re bound to find something perfect for the anime lover or CD-collector on your list, and eat some delicious food while you shop, too. Beyond Dragon City Mall, Chinatown is flourishing with a handful of new pop-up shops that are adding a fresh new vision to the revitalized community.
Suggested stores: Gundamyyc, Qalala, Nekoto Books, Neon Taste (Chinatown), Good Thrift nonprofit thrift store (Chinatown), HIDDEN CORNER (Chinatown)
This inner-city street is bustling all year round, but especially during the holiday shopping season. It’s a high-energy spot to spend the afternoon, with a number of record stores, vintage clothing retail, coffee shops, art and furniture galleries, and even a below-ground rock and mineral store to hunt for gems. You can grab a coffee at Cafe Beano and a fresh pastry at Butter Block before sauntering down 17th, checking off all the friends and fam on your gift list. Sweet!
Suggested stores: Cafe Beano, Butter Block, gravitypope, Blackbyrd Myoozik, LESS 17, Sweet Like Vintage, Earth Gems Ltd.
With tons of construction minimizing traffic to the neighbourhood for the past few years, these local businesses are in serious need of patronage. There are tons to find and even more to enjoy in Marda Loop, which gives off quirky, Portland vibes in a well-contained, cozy shopping neighbourhood. Meander up and down 33rd Ave., sniff some artisanal goods, and enjoy a warm beverage from a local third-wave coffee shop. You’ll probably even get to pat a friendly dog or two.
Suggested stores: Slow Burn Books, Master Chocolat Marda Loop, Springbank Cheese Co, Kricket’s, Le Comptoir, by François
Ella Grace is the true meaning of eclectic, with a collection of curated, locally-owned vendors who have gathered some of the coolest vintage and retro finds around. Looking for something nostalgic, or the perfect random gift that’s sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face? Ella Grace is bound to have what you need, plus all the funds go to supporting these hardworking local business owners.
Wherever you decide to go, these neighbourhoods will be waiting with covetable goods and lots of options for everyone in your life. Only two weeks to go ’til Christmas!
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