Discover the Magic of the Season
The holiday season is upon us and there's no better way to embrace its spirit than a visit to a local holiday market! The SoWa Winter Festival in Boston is the perfect spot to get your fill of twinkling lights, spiced cider and hot chocolate drinks, and shop an array of unique gifts - all while staying warm inside. It's a treasure trove for those looking for something special! Whether you're a seasoned market-goer or a first-timer, this gift guide will help you navigate the festival and find the perfect presents for your loved ones.
For the Art Lover
1. Local Artwork: Support local artists while giving a gift that’s one of a kind. Look for paintings, prints, or handmade ornaments. Erica Joy Photography is a must see for New England landscape photography prints. For the true art aficionado, Moss and Blue is the go to stop with stunning paintings and hand-painted ornaments and vases. Check out the one-of-a-kind records at Lost Life on Wax, the beautifully unique illustrations at Kat Maus Haus, gorgeous textile designs at Fawn, and incredible butterfly framed art at The Happy Cactus.
2. Artistic Prints: An artistic print brings a touch of joy to any space. Whether it's a modern minimalist piece, a vibrant abstract, or a whimsical painting, prints have a timeless appeal. Stop by Miramar Print Lab for bold colors and unique designs, Laurel Greenfield Art to bring a moment of joy from around the table to your wall, Fridgedoor for contemporary retro prints, Ashley Eisenman for cheeky and irreverent pieces, Powpaper for graphic prints, Rusty and Ingrid for screen prints or holiday-themed prints and cards at Copper and Print.
For the Home Decor Enthusiast
1. Handcrafted Candles: Discover candles in scents ranging from Christmas tree pine and cinnamon to peppermint and lavender. These are not just gifts; they're mood setters for a cozy winter night. The tree farm candle at Birchouse Botanicals makes any room smell like Christmas. The concrete vessels at Lifebloom combine a beautiful home accent with a unique scent, the candle bar at Sky Candle has a huge variety and even Hannukah candles for Menorahs, and the intricately sculpted candles at Dot Bee Co and The Sleeping Candle are incredible! Liquor Wicks has some awesome beer and liquor bottle candles available too.
2. Artisanal Pottery, Glass & Kitchenware: Each piece is unique, offering a special touch to any home. Look for mugs, vases, or decorative bowls, each with a story to tell. Visit Julo Pottery for gorgeous mugs, B and B Glass Studio for whimsical glass animals, Pastels and Parcels for vibrant cutting boards or Nasseramics for the perfect ceramic ornaments. Check out the beautiful kitchen sets at We Are Pottery, color-changing glasses at LucasLandGlass, hand-blown glass vases and jewelry from Charged Glassworks, and modern global wares from Abroad Modern.
3. Home Decor Accents: Enrich their home with a gift that adds warmth and character! Choose from a modern minimalist, vintage charm, or rustic earthy style to perfectly match their space. The perfect gift for anyone on your list is a seashell tree or mussel shell wreath from Periwinkle Shells. Snag a stylish Swedish dish cloth at Esthetic Living or a bold-patterned pillow at Eliana Rajao Designs. The coasters at VPV Photography are the perfect way to display art while also being functional. And you can't go wrong with a floral keepsake from Eight Acorns, a handwoven basket from Nina Nest, a beautiful patterned plate from Biccara, artisinal decor from GAF Home, or the prettiest dried flower bundles from Honey and the Moon.
For the Fashion Forward
1. Knit Scarves and Hats: Hand-knitted accessories are not only warm but also stylish. Choose from a variety of colors, patterns and materials. Check out the headware at AllieCaps, the mittens at WinterBorn Alpaca or the infinity scarves at Coffee Bean Knitting. And you won't find anything softer than the yarn at the Boston Fiber Company
2. Unique Jewelry: From intricate necklaces to handcrafted bracelets, these pieces are as distinctive as the person you’re gifting them to. The pieces at Calli B. are absolutely phenomenal and the statement designs from Porcelain and Stone are truly one-of-a-kind. Grab the stacking rings at Clover b, a leaf locket at Erin Nelson Jewelery, a super cool Morse code cuff from Morrison Mae, or a gorgeous nature-inspired piece from Gratinsta. Don't miss the vibrant textile earrings at RambleJoy Jewelry, the gummy bear and strawberry-centric earrings at Line & Co, a zodiac constellation necklace at The Science Boutique, or the elegant birthstone rings from Garcia Cristina.
3. Clothes and Apparel: When it comes to gifts that combine practicality with a personal touch, clothing stands out as a wonderful choice. The aprons at Overseasoned are a perfect gift for the chefs in your life, Billie Todd has cashmere sweaters that would be great for any of the men in your life, and Cinder and Salt has the perfect mix of style and sustainability in their clothes. The apparel at Sault New England is so cozy and especially adorable in kids' sizes, and the concert-like T-Shirts at Encore Apparel are awesome. Don't miss the beautiful coats at Rachel Walters Collection, designs at Bug and Rabbit and Nestful Vintage either!
4. Purses & Accessories: From chic clutches to spacious totes, silk scarves to elegant wallets, these gifts are sure to enchant and impress the fashion-savvy people in your life. The handbags at Alice Yardley are unbelievably chic. Grab a pair of handmade sunglasses at Slyk Shades, whose mission is to inspire others to follow their dreams and spread positivity and kindness through wearable art. Grab a cute tote bag from Kiwi and Mochi, a romance-inspired item at Sir Milky Quartz, a bouquet wristlet from Ash & Rose, or a Big 'Ol Fanny Pack from Bull Moose SoftGoods.
For the Foodie
1. Gourmet Chocolates: Indulge in artisanal chocolates, a velvety treat that never fails to please. Check out the Bicknell's Birdsong bar at Chequessett Chocolate, the artfully sculpted truffles and cocoa bombs at DaVinci Chocolatier or the bonbons at Petrova Chocolates.
2. Homemade Food & Pantry Staples: Perfect for the culinary adventurer, these gifts add a personal touch to any kitchen. The olive oil at Torre Di Gamberaia is akin to the stuff you taste in Italy and the syrups at Botanical Springs are so tasty. There's also the bold flavors at Craic Sauce, the coffee at Cafés Duarte Co and the honeys at Golden Rule Honey. The flavor combinations in the rubs at Hubba Hubba Foods and flavor forward sauces at Hillside Harvest will not disappoint. You can't miss the pestos and pasta from Lara's Cuisine and for the cocktail lovers, grab a mix like the Figgin' Delish from Simple Sips.
3. Sweet Treats: Indulge in the ultimate sweet escape with some sweet treats and goodies, featuring a wide selection of gourmet confections. From artisanal candies to freshly baked pastries, each item promises a journey of exquisite flavors ideal for anyone who cherishes the sweeter things in life. Grab a plant-based goodie at NÜSSLI118° or a melt in your mouth treat from The Half Cookie. Plus the caramels at McCrea's are so good as are the delicious maple bourbon pecans at Q's Nuts. If you're looking for an artisinal cookie or cake, you can't go wrong with OneBiteSweet.
For the Adventurer
1. DIY Kits: For the DIY enthusiast, a make-your-own kit is not just a gift, it’s an experience. Top of the list is the DIY Cheese Maker - from one cheese lover to another, you cannot wrong with this gift. To learn a new skill or hobby, check out the awesome knitting kits from Juliette Pécaut Designs or the DIY soy candle kit from Wyllo, which sells products from over 50 women-owned brands.
For the Little Ones
1. Handmade Toys, Clothes & Decor: Wooden toys or hand-sewn stuffed animals and clothes offer a nostalgic charm. Discover decor from local artists, adding a magical touch to bedtime stories and bedrooms. Check out the handmade felt toys at Bodhiartistry, the adorable items at Choi and Moi or the must-have plush toys at Scatterbrains. The cutest clothes are also available at Hedgehog Belly Designs and visit Zooguu for enchanting decor like their faux taxidermy! Visit Shindigs for vintage buttons and stickers!
For the Pet Lovers
1. Pet-Inspired Home Decor: Thing dog-themed throw pillows and cat paintings. Check out the cat art prints and stickers at Fuffernutter, and the cutest animal drawings at Marcartshop like the sports bulldog collection.
2. Delicious Treats: Offer the gift of treats customized for their pup's favorite flavors. Stop by PolkaDog or 2 Dogs Treats for an array of flavorful options.
3. Fashionable Accessories: For the pets that like to strut in style, consider a cute sweater, bow tie like at Proud Dog Apparel, or bandana like at Lilly's Bone to Pick.
For the Self-Care Lovers
1. Skincare & Scents: From luxurious bath bombs and aromatic candles to soothing skincare sets, these gifts are a gentle reminder to unwind and indulge in some personal time. Whether the perfume from Labhouse, the lavender-scented lotions at All Things Lavendar, the whipped sugar scrubs at Birch Beauty RI, or the CBD salve at The Healing Rose. Don't miss the Lagoon face oil at Element Oasis, the fragrant goat milk soaps at Juniper Loft Soap Company, or the Urban Kitchen Handmade.
2. Teas & Loungeware: By gifting self-care products, you're not just giving a tangible item; you're encouraging a healthy and mindful routine. The teas at Bees & Teas are perfect for relaxing and reading a book, and the Turkish towels from Peshtemal Collection or gorgeous silk robes at Amisha Design are the perfect loungewear to do it in! Stop by Anna Whithman for the perfect notebook to journal in.
Eco-Friendly Finds
1. Eco-Friendly Wears: Functional and stylish, these pieces are perfect for eco-conscious friends. The statement earrings at Treeline and Tide are made from sustainably forested wood and a tree is planted with each purchase. There's also the fleece winter-wear at Smittens made from recycled and repurposed sweaters.
Making the Most of Your Market Visit
- Plan Ahead: Check the market’s hours and location. It’s often best to go early to avoid crowds. (Pro tip: stop by on Thursday nights to avoid the lines!)
- Take Your Time: Part of the joy is in the browsing. Enjoy the festive atmosphere.
- Support Local: Remember, purchasing from local vendors not only gets you a unique gift but also supports the local economy.
- Arrive Hungry: While you're exploring, don't forget to sample some of the delicious food! There are some delicious baked goods on the main level like artisanal cupcakes at Batter and Bloom, doughnuts at Blackbird, cookies at Yummy Mummy, and cakes at Nothing Bundt Cakes. There's plenty of lattes and pastries at True Grounds, and delicious hot chocolate at The Fat Cactus.
The SoWa Winter Festival is located at 550 Harrison Avenue in Boston and is open November 25 through December 17, Thursdays to Sundays.
Hours of operation:
Thursdays: 4pm-9pm
Fridays: 4pm-9pm
Saturdays: 10am-10pm
Sundays: 10am-7pm
Visit their website for additional details and information.
Holiday markets are more than just places to shop; they are hubs of joy and creativity, and reflect the heart of the community. As you wander through the bustling aisles, remember that each gift you choose carries a story - a story of craftsmanship, love, and the magic of the holiday season. Happy shopping, and may your holidays be merry and bright! 🌟🎁🎄
This post is brought to you by Erica Joy Photography, your go-to source for all things festive and fun. For more holiday tips and guides, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.
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