5 unique places to buy holiday gifts in Vancouver

If you’ve stepped into a store lately, you might be thinking that the holidays are just around the corner. Luckily, we’ve still got some time to go in order to make the most of the festive holiday shopping.

For those not interested in department stores, there are plenty of fun options around Vancouver for some unique holiday gift shopping. So whether you’re looking to support local artists, find something wacky for that weird uncle of yours, or you just want to treat yourself to something nice, here’s a starter list for some unique shopping ideas in Vancouver.

Craft markets

There are plenty of craft markets in Vancouver this December to give you an amazing opportunity to buy a handcrafted gift this season. Expect to find art, pottery, crafts, jewellery, soap, and a whole lot of surprises.

GOT CRAFT? – December 7th + Sunday, December 8th

Burnaby Christmas Craft Fair – Dec 7th to Dec 8th

Wild Things: An Outsiders Holiday Market – Dec 9th

MAKE IT Vancouver – Dec 11th to Dec 15th

SHINY FUZZY MUDDY – Dec 14th to Dec 15th

Re-gifting, but make it cool

The Eastside Flea is the hippest place to buy used clothing. Aside from the vintage threads that will have your best friend, partner, or family member saying “Where’d you manage to find this!?!?”, there are plenty of other cool surprises that are available for purchase.

Plus, there’s alcoholic drinks and really good food options available, so you’ll be able to have a good time shopping too!

Edible presents for the hard-to-buy-for

In today’s world of climate strikes, it seems a bit sad to buy a gift that you know will end up in the landfill. So, for those people you have to shop for that seem to either a) hate everything you get them, or b) keep your presents on a shelf to get dusty, why not get them something that tastes great?

For the meat-lovers, grab an ethically-raised piece of steak. For the plant-based, a beautiful bouquet or basket of fresh veggies, fruits, and pastries will be much appreciated. Note: you’ll have to buy these gifts pretty close to when you’re planning on giving them to avoid spoilage.

The Vancouver Farmers Market is at Riley Park every Saturday from 10am to 2pm.

For the newly plant-based

Have a loved one who recently watched the Netflix movie, Gamechangers, and decided to become vegan? Treat them to something deliciously plant-based that you picked up from the Vegan Night Market or North Vancouver’s Larry’s Market, a solely vegetarian grocery store.

Similar to the Eastside Flea, not only will you be grabbing a few unique gifts, but you’ll also likely have a really good time shopping.

The Vegan Night Market is open for one night only on December 19th from 5pm to 10pm.

Handmade comes straight from the heart

So you may have to actually work for this gift, but that’s what makes it so cool. There are plenty of DIY events happening in the city this month, so join a few to make yourself some gifts to give that stick to a budget.

Make a custom pinata!

Have an endless choice of things to make at 4Cats Studios

Make your own beeswax wraps or DIY lip balm kits

Hint: If you have a Facebook account, there are countless events listed in Vancouver under DIY. Check it out to find something you want to try!

Do you have any other unique places to buy gifts that you’d like to share? Leave a comment below!