Last Minute Holiday Shopping in Portland
Shopping locally brings one-of-a-kind options and give-back to the local community. A win-win! Image Courtesy: Envato Elements
You might be checking that shipping arrival date twice and wondering, “Will my package arrive in time for the big day?” With today December 21, if your package isn’t already en-route and guaranteed before 12/25, you’re probably down to brick-and-mortar options only. Yet don’t despair; there are many great places to buy locally and give a little to the community at the same time. After all, why ship your dollars off to Megazon when you don’t have to? As for me, I love buying locally when I can. Getting to meet those who benefit from your purchase is a dying art these days. Yet this is an art that must be preserved. Please enjoy the list of local shopping options that will help you fill out what’s under the tree and support the community:
A Sticky Treat for All: There’s nothing like a sweet treat, and getting some of Joe Brown’s Carmel Corn is one tasty option that will be popular as a gift or a dessert. Why is Joe Brown’s caramel corn so good? Well, they’ve been making and selling their handmade treats since 1932. Suffice to say they have it down. Head over and grab a few bags while you still have time!
Caramel corn is a great gift and a great treat to bring as a dessert! Image Courtesy: Envato Elements
12 Frames of Christmas: We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention our own establishment at Eyes On Broadway. After all, this is a list containing great, last-minute shopping ideas. Getting some new frames for a loved one, or yourself (you should love yourself too!), is one of the better ideas you’ll come across. Our selection of frames, shades, and all things in-between is second to none in this great town. Show up at your next event looking smart and stylish.
Lost Gnomes & A Great Market: There are myriad great businesses up and down NE Alberta Street. From storied restaurants to a wide variety of local artisan shops this area of town has a lot to offer. Yet one of the more engaging aspects of shopping on NE Alberta this holiday season is the challenge to find the gnomes! That’s right, while shopping keep your eye out for gnomes. When you find one, scan its accompanying sign and you might just win your very own gnome to take home! This is great fun if you have little ones along for your gift getting experience. And for a great conglomeration of local vendors on Alberta, check out the specially-set-up MESO Marketplace, which features local vendors and will be selling through 12/24.
Enjoy the MESO Marketplace for local creations. Image Courtesy: MESO
Hear that Train Whistle: As a father of two young kids, I’m always struck by the difference in the quality of today’s toys vs. yesteryear's. No question kids have many more options, but the quality is often lacking. In fact, with so many toy creations, well, it’s no wonder any single toy can gain traction. That said, there are still some amazingly well-constructed, classic toys out there that will stand the test of time (or Timmy) and ring true for fun. So check out Whistle Stop Trains, Portland’s premier model railroad destination for hobbyists and enthusiasts at all levels.
Bounty in Beaumont: It’s tough to choose which stores to feature in this great part of town. However, it’s a time of choices. What to bake? What to buy? When to catch your sweetheart under the mistletoe? So, here are two gems worth your visit if you’re looking to finish up that shopping! First, check out The Arrangement, which features a wonderful curation of truly original and unique gift ideas for just about anyone still on your list. If you’ve got someone that, “has everything,” or you just don’t know what to get that special someone, this shop will leave you solved. And while down in that area Puddletown Games offers another great stop for a wonderful selection of puzzles and games.
Getting the chance to touch and feel the present you might buy is a bonus in these days of constant, online shopping. The brick-and-mortar experience, which is now your only real option before 12/25, is good for all. Image Courtesy: Envato Elements
Take the Gateway Challenge: If you’re looking for a challenge while shopping (and I’m not talking about traffic or crowds) then shopping out in the Gateway area may be just for you. So how does it work? First, when in the Gateway area (ya know, NE Halsey) look for the Holiday Flyer in the window or check out area of a local business. Next, after your purchase, ask for the customer form for the challenge, and be sure to attach your receipt to it. Now, hold on to this form/receipt and make two more purchases at different, participating businesses. Fill out the form at each one, attaching the relevant receipt to each form. Now in possession of three purchase forms and receipts, turn this collection into any of the participating businesses and you’ll be entered into a drawing to win a gift bundle from the area. The drawing will take place on January 4th, 2023. Fun!
Get That Golden Ticket: No doubt when I hear the words, “golden ticket” it just brings up so many fun memories of childhood. Heck, who doesn’t love the idea of delectable chocolate bars and the chance for a pass to visit the great chocolate factory ever imagined? Well, count me in. And now, continuing their tradition, participating stores in the Hillsdale / Multnomah Village area will give you a “golden ticket” when you make a purchase. Golden tickets can then be redeemed at participating businesses for a gift with a purchase, or used as a special discount. As a bonus, this area is looking very festive with holiday lights on the trees and buildings. Enjoy!
Santa in St. Johns: The Metamorphic Winter Garden Holiday Market Pop-up, which is open through December 23 and operates from 12-6 pm and on 12/24 from 12-4 pm is a bonanza of gift getting options. From vintage glass creations to cool toys to sweet and savory cook books, you will find something unique here. And once again, supporting local creators has a double benefit: Not only do you get a great and unique gift, you enhance people right in your own community.