The holiday season is fast approaching, and there’s no better time to support local businesses and artisans while finding unique and thoughtful gifts for your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for the perfect present, a festive day out, or a handmade treasure, this local holiday gift-giving guide has got you covered! Check out these local shops, craft fairs, and pop-up markets that will make your holiday shopping merry and bright.
1. Holiday Craft Fairs & Markets
- Carlisle Christmas Craft Show (November 2nd, 2024) Held at the Carlisle Area Senior High School, this annual event features local artisans selling handmade goods, from jewelry and home décor to holiday decorations and more. It’s a perfect stop for one-of-a-kind, handcrafted gifts.
- Christmas Craft Market (December 7th, 2024) Located at the Saint Patrick Parish Activity Center, this craft show offers a wide range of unique items created by local crafters. It’s the perfect spot to find custom-made goods, support local makers, and support their Christmas Cookie Sale!
- Pennsylvania Christmas + Gift Show (December 4-8th, 2024) Visit the Pennsylvania Christmas + Gift Show to shop locally made gifts and enjoy holiday festivities. There will be live music, local vendors, and lots of holiday cheer! Use code: MACKIDSCARLISLE to save 50% on your tickets!
2. Local Shops to Visit
- Create-A-Palooza (Carlisle, PA)Looking for a personalized, hand-painted gift? Create-A-Palooza offers pottery painting, canvas art, and custom ornaments. Their gift cards also make great stocking stuffers for the artists in your life.
- The Central Wedge Cheese Shop (Carlisle, PA) For the foodies in your life, be sure to stop by The Central Wedge Cheese Shop. With a variety of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and gourmet treats, it's the perfect place to find a unique and delicious gift. Whether you're creating a custom gift basket or picking up something special for your holiday spread, The Central Wedge has everything you need to impress your favorite food lover!
- Hollabaugh Bros. Farm Market (Biglerville, PA)Visit Hollabaugh Bros. Farm Market for a farm-fresh selection of baked goods, fruit baskets, and locally made treats. Their gift baskets are the perfect way to share a taste of local goodness with friends and family.
- The Greatest Gift (Carlisle, PA) This charming shop offers a wide selection of locally crafted, faith-based, and fair-trade items, perfect for anyone on your list. Whether you're searching for inspirational home decor, handcrafted jewelry, or special keepsakes, The Greatest Gift has something that will make your holiday shopping memorable and thoughtful.
- Exquisite Chocolates of Carlisle (Carlisle, PA) Specializing in fine Belgian chocolates, this shop offers a variety of handmade truffles, bars, and other delectable treats. Perfect for stocking stuffers or a sweet indulgence, their chocolates are sure to make your holiday gifts stand out!
- Farmers on the Square (Carlisle, PA) For a locally sourced, delicious holiday meal, stop by this farmer’s market. From fresh produce to baked goods, you’ll find the perfect ingredients to make your holiday dinner extra special. Their special Holiday Artisan Markets will be held on Nov 20th, Nov 27th, and Dec 11th.
3. Experiences as Gifts
- Art Classes and Workshops at Happy Go Creative They offer a variety of art classes and workshops that inspire creativity in both kids and adults. NEW: Craft and Connect Family Craft Boxes! These boxes are perfect for families looking to bond over a fun and creative project. Gift a class or workshop, and let your loved ones unleash their inner artist while making cherished memories!
- Cooking Classes at The Kitchen Shoppe These hands-on classes are perfect for food enthusiasts of all skill levels. Participants will learn new culinary techniques, discover exciting recipes, and enjoy delicious meals together. Whether you're gifting it to a friend or treating yourself, these classes are a fantastic way to create lasting memories while honing your cooking skills!
4. Handmade Gift Workshops
- Paint Your Own Pottery at Create-A-Palooza Want to give a handmade gift but don’t have time to make it? At Create-A-Palooza, you can paint your own pottery and have it fired in time for holiday gift giving. It’s a fun experience and a heartfelt present rolled into one.
- Make One-Of-A-Kind Gourd Crafts at Meadowbrooke Gourds This charming venue offers the chance to create stunning and unique gourd crafts. From ornaments to decorative pieces, you’ll leave with a beautiful handmade gift that’s sure to impress. Join a workshop and get inspired to craft your own holiday treasures while supporting local artisans!
- Create Your Own Candles at Wick and Pour Studio in Carlisle. They offer handmade gift workshops where you can create your own soy candles. It’s a fun, hands-on way to craft something special for your loved ones while supporting local artisans! Perfect for those who appreciate unique, handcrafted items.
Wrap Up Your Shopping Locally!
This year, skip the big box stores and shop local for all your holiday gifts. Whether you’re looking for handmade treasures, locally sourced food items, or a memorable experience, Carlisle, Shippensburg, and the surrounding areas have plenty to offer. Shopping local not only helps small businesses thrive but also gives you the opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts that your family and friends will cherish.
So grab your list, check it twice, and get ready to shop local this holiday season! Happy gifting!
Share the Holiday Spirit
Don’t forget to follow Macaroni KID Carlisle for more local events, holiday happenings, and family fun! And if you know of any additional local markets or shops we should feature, let us know.
