'Tis the season of merriment and cheer, and as we gear up to revel in the festive warmth and joy, there's no finer gesture than immersing ourselves in the true spirit of the holidays—supporting the local businesses that grace Howard County, Maryland. In the charming boutiques and amidst the stalls of artisanal craft markets, Howard County unveils a wealth of distinctive and considerate gifts. These not only promise to bring delight to your nearest and dearest but also play a vital role in enhancing our community.
Merriweather District Artisan Market
Guide to Shopping Local for Gift Ideas
Looking for something special to surprise your friends and family this holiday season? Dive into Howard County’s array of local shops and unique experiences to find gifts that are thoughtful and memorable. Here are some standout gift ideas to make your holiday shopping a breeze:
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Craft It! Attend a holiday crafting workshop at Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar to create custom candles or handmade earrings that make for heartfelt, personal gifts.
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Experience Gifts: Opt for gift cards to favorite local restaurants or a night out at Toby’s Dinner Theatre for an unforgettable evening of dining and live entertainment.
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Cozy Comforts: Pick out something warm and stylish from Bra-la-la or Sweet Elizabeth Jane to keep your loved ones snug through the winter season.
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Books for Every Taste: Browse Backwater Books for a carefully curated selection that matches your recipient's unique interests, from bestselling novels to niche topics.
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Foodie Favorites: Assemble a gourmet gift basket with local treasures like Althea’s Almost Famous Jerk Sauce and craft beer from Manor Hill Brewing for the culinary enthusiast in your life.
These local finds are sure to delight everyone on your list and support the wonderful businesses that enrich Howard County.
Ellicott City
Where to Shop in Howard County
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Historic Ellicott City: Historic Ellicott City is a charming destination for holiday shopping. Explore Main Street, lined with boutique stores, art galleries, and specialty shops. Whether you're looking for handcrafted jewelry, vintage finds, or unique home decor, Ellicott City has something for everyone.
Visit the Historic Ellicott City Gift Shop for a gift that blends nostalgia with local charm. Their puzzles, including the popular "The Enchanted Forest, Ellicott City, MD" 20-piece child’s puzzle, make wonderful presents. Featuring whimsical designs by hometown artist Wiley Purkey, these puzzles are proudly made in the USA. While they don’t ship, the shop offers convenient local pickup arrangements. Share the magic of Howard County this holiday season!
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Savage Mill: For a shopping experience with a touch of history, head to Savage Mill. This historic cotton mill turned shopping destination is home to a variety of shops offering antiques, handmade crafts, and locally produced goods. Take a stroll through the mill's corridors and discover hidden gems that make for perfect holiday gifts. The Savage Mill Yuletide Festival kicks off Small Business Saturday with the grand opening of the Holiday Makers Market.
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Local Artisan Pop-Ups: Keep an eye out for local artisan pop-ups and craft fairs happening throughout the holiday season. These events showcase the talent and creativity of local artisans, offering a diverse range of handmade gifts, from custom clothing to unique artwork. You won't want to miss the Merriweather District Holiday Market on Dec 6 the from 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm, Dec 7th from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm, and Dec 8th from Noon – 3:00 pm. Another must-visit holiday shop is the Artisan Christmas Market at Turf Valley Resort on Sundays in December from 11 am to 2 pm. Check community calendar for details on upcoming pop-ups in Howard County.
Tips for a Successful Local Shopping Experience
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Explore Off the Beaten Path: While it's tempting to stick to familiar shopping areas, don't be afraid to explore off the beaten path. Some of the best local gems are tucked away in unexpected corners of Howard County. Stop by Koreatown and Maple Lawn for unique finds.
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Engage with Shop Owners: Strike up conversations with shop owners and staff. They can provide insights into the story behind the products and may even share recommendations for other local businesses to explore.
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Attend Local Events: Many local businesses host holiday events, promotions, and activities. Attend these gatherings to immerse yourself in the local community and take advantage of exclusive deals and offers. You won't want to miss Shop Small Saturday in historic Ellicott City on November 30th at 10 am and Midnight Madness in historic Ellicott City on December 1st starting at 5:30 pm.
Embrace the Festive Spirit
This holiday season, let's support the diverse businesses that create the vibrant tapestry of Howard County, Maryland. Shopping locally not only unveils extraordinary and thoughtful gifts but also becomes a catalyst for enhancing the community. Whether you find yourself meandering through the historic streets of Ellicott City, delving into the charm of Savage Mill, or exploring the treasures of a local holiday market, you'll quickly realize that the most exceptional gifts often originate from the heart of the community. Immerse yourself in the true essence of the season, and elevate this year's holiday festivities by making the resounding decision to shop local in Howard County.
