Your guide to local Christmas shopping
Finding the perfect Christmas gift can be a challenge. This year, you won’t lack inspiration! Let us help you with your holiday purchases thanks to these gift ideas from the Outaouais.
A day at the spa
Who says a gift has to be material? Why not offer a relaxing experience at an Outaouais spa?
Choose from a wide selection of holiday packages at Nordik Spa-Nature, the largest spa in North America. For an urban experience, give a gift certificate to Huma Spa, the brand new rooftop spa located in Gatineau’s AGORA district. The KŌENA Spa offers e-gift certificates and packages for a spa experience worthy of Hawaiian hospitality—enough to make you say “Mele Kalikimaka!”
A CHRISTMAS BASKET FILLED WITH THE FLAVOURS OF THE OUTAOUAIS
Here’s the perfect gift for the foodies on your list! The 100% Local Discovery Box – Holiday Edition, in partnership with Croquez l’Outaouais, is back this year. As its name suggests, it’s a Christmas basket filled with delicious local products from the Outaouais. Chocolate, caramel, honey, maple wine and more … so many products to discover the gourmet side of the region.
A board game
Board games are perennial favourites. Whether you’re shopping for a child or an adult, L’As des jeux has the perfect game. You might even decide to treat yourself at the same time, and pick up a game to add zip to your Christmas parties!
A taste of the Outaouais in your glass
Thanks to the high quality of its alcoholic products, the Outaouais region stands out on a national and international scale. A nice bottle makes a great hostess gift!
For distilled products, Artist In Residence‘s spirits are ideal for lovers of cocktails or “on the rocks” drinks. If the person you want to spoil is more of a wine lover, think of the many vineyards of the Outaouais or even Verger Merleau for its alcoholic ciders!
Finally, craft beer lovers will be delighted to learn that the Outaouais is experiencing a boom in the hopped beverage industry. Microbreweries have been multiplying on the territory for a few years now, which means there’s an exceptional and growing offer to discover. Brasserie du Bas-Canada, Les Brasseurs du Temps, Les Brasseurs de Montebello, Brauwerk Hoffman, Brasserie artisanale Gallicus, 5e Baron, Chelsea & Co., À La Dérive … do you need more suggestions?
A little chocolate
Quality chocolate makes an ideal stocking stuffer. Swap the annual classics for proudly made local chocolates that are especially divine.
That’s exactly what Rochef Chocolatier offers with its selection of Christmas chocolates and gift baskets. At ChocoMotive, you’ll also find several special holiday chocolates, while the Wakefield Confectionery offers Advent calendars, chocolate-dipped marshmallows and fudges. Yummy!
An unusual gift
If you really don’t know what to buy and you’re still looking for inspiration, no worries! There are several boutiques in the Outaouais that can put together gift ideas for you.
First of all, there’s the Habitude boutique with its wide range of 100% Canadian products. From blankets and sweaters to books and bath bombs, you’ll find everything for your gift exchange! At La Petite Grocerie in Chelsea, shop for local, eco-responsible and ethical products such as soaps, bath products, jewellery and more. You’ll surely win the prize for the best gift! At Boutique Le Local, find Canadian-made clothing and exclusive gift ideas.
We all know someone who has a thing for alpacas! Here’s your chance to make them happy. For alpaca mittens, socks and stuffed animals, Chelsea Alpacas and Willow Lane Alpacas have online stores to make your holiday shopping easier. You’re also welcome to visit the farm if you can’t resist these gentle animals!
Does the person on your list enjoy the romance of candlelight? Drop by the Doozy Candle shop, where you’ll find brightly coloured handmade candles that burn for hours and hours!
For loose leaf teas and custom-blended tisanes, the CHA YI Tea House specializes in importing fine and artisanal teas from the best regions of Asia. For gift-giving, it offers carefully selected assortments or gift certificates.
A pair of tickets to a show
With the many performance venues in the region, you’re sure to find tickets for a show that will be a crowd pleaser! From comedy and theatre to music and children’s shows, there’s lots to choose from.
Check out the program at the Salle Odyssée of the Maison de la culture de Gatineau, at the Théâtre du Casino and at the Cabaret La Basoche to offer culture as a gift. A great night ahead!
Still not sure you’ve found the right gift idea? Expand your search for inspiration by visiting the Outaouais Christmas markets.
