Ontario holiday gift ideas
One Of A Kind Winter Show | Destination Ontario
Kickstart the holiday season and celebrate Ontario pride with unique gift ideas from local makers, creators and designers. Many local shops pay it forward with ethical, eco-forward products and by supporting causes in their communities.
In addition to visiting some of these stores, take advantage of convenient online shopping, direct shipping or contactless pick-up, so you can check off everyone on your gift-giving list from home.
Clothing and accessories
BRAVE Leather
Your go-to for ethically and locally made leather accessories, including belts, bags and other fashion items. Elevate your wardrobe with a piece from their new fall and winter collection.
Location: 85 Colville Road, North York
Online shopping details: free ground shipping on orders over $99
Peace Collective
Known for its "Toronto vs. Everybody" and "Toronto is Home" apparel, Peace Collective has a collection of gift-worthy clothes, like the fan collection showcasing loyalty to the Toronto Raptors, Toronto FC and the Toronto Blue Jays. Your purchase supports various charitable organizations.
Location: 7 Trinity Street, Toronto
Online shopping details: free shipping on orders over $75
Echoes in the Attic
Over 100 tons of fabric have been rescued from landfills to create vegan eco-chic bags and purses. These hand-made “upcycled” products are the brainchild of two dedicated Bradford-based "mompreneurs." Choose from the newest chic collections of en vogue bags.
Online shopping details: available online only; shipping and taxes are calculated at checkout
Whit Kingston
This Kingston-owned shop, with a full line of men’s and women’s apparel, proudly celebrates the city, its downtown and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Location: 259 Princess Street, Kingston
Online shopping details: free delivery in Kingston on orders over $40
Illbury + Goose
Strong Ontario roots from Woodstock and Strathroy are steeped in the name Illbury + Goose, and its anchored maple leaf logo amplifies their deep Canadian identity. Find stylish knit toques and classic caps or browse their selection of classic t-shirts and tanks.
Location: 884 Dundas Street, London
Online shopping details: free shipping on orders over $50
Muskoka Bear Wear
Choose from a wide assortment of cozy fleece tops and bottoms for those chilly winter days or for lounging around the house. Adorable sizes are available for infants, so even the smallest ones can sport Muskoka pride with style. Don’t forget your furry, four-legged family members. Doggie bandanas are available, with proceeds going to the local Muskoka OSPCA.
Locations: multiple locations across Ontario
Online shopping details: free shipping on all orders within Canada for purchases over $59 before tax
MILK Shop
Indulge in some capital chic. Choose from a wide range of stylish women’s clothing, jewellery and accessories for the fashionista on your list.
Location: 45 William Street, Ottawa
Online shopping details: shipping is free for orders over $125
Ungalli Clothing Co.
Ungalli proves eco-conscious living need not compromise on style and quality. These sisters have championed their love of the environment into an ethically produced clothing line and home products made from recycled and organic material since 2014. Check out special collections for products that support people in need.
Location: 115 Cumberland Street North, Thunder Bay
Online shopping details: orders shipped via Canada Post or Purolator; shipping is free for orders $200 or more
Outpost General
Inspired by lazy days of summer on Manitoulin Island, this cottage supply store sells hand-picked goods and gifts, like their super cozy "Island Time" hoodies.
Location: 19 Water Street East #1, Little Current
Online shopping details: shipping is calculated at checkout
PTBO Northern Originals
Born out of a love for Peterborough, PTBO Northern Originals delivers apparel with bold, original designs that showcase the best of the city and its surrounding outdoors.
Location: 383 George Street North, Peterborough
Online shopping details: shipping is free for orders of $250 or more
The Positive Inception
Give comfort and joy when you gift cozy hoodies, sweaters, hats and other apparel with positive messaging. Owner Ryan Benoit was born with cerebral palsy, but that didn’t deter him from channeling his positive outlook on life into motivational messages that promote good in the world. Giving back looks great with their Charity Collection.
Location: 1212 Lasalle Boulevard, Sudbury
Online shopping details: taxes and shipping will be calculated at checkout
Archies Surf Shop
Open year round, this little shop makes a big difference as a portion of sales proceeds for their popular sweater line goes towards the Coastal Centre to protect the Lake Huron coastline. Make a difference and shop Archie’s extensive offerings of apparel, accessories, drinkware, stickers and more.
Location: 53 Main Street West, Grand Bend
Online shopping details: shipping costs and taxes are calculated at checkout
Likely General
Check out this community hub with a boutique and gallery that showcases the work of its diverse art community. The shop is decidedly funky, but you’ll be hard-pressed to walk out empty-handed since they sell everything from health and beauty products to books and one-of-a-kind artwork. You can feel satisfied with your purchase since Likely General prioritizes marginalized creators and donates to the community’s monthly needs. New products often arrive, so you’ll find something different upon each visit.
Location: 389 Roncesvalles Avenue, Toronto
Online shopping details: free local shipping for order over $133 with special code at checkout
Cheerfully Made Goods + Market
This charming store in Almonte is filled with many unique and handmade products created by Canadian and local artisans. Shop online for a diverse bevy of best-selling products and items with character, such as delightful accessories and clothing for pets or pet parents. Be sure to keep an eye out for craft events and workshops.
Location: 72 Mill Street, Almonte
Online shopping details: free shipping
Stocking stuffers
Ontario Parks Store
Get your Ontario Parks branded favourites like park crest patches and stickers, crest colouring book, mitts, toques and holiday ornaments.
Online shopping details: free shipping over $100
The Spacing Store
Toronto-centric gift ideas for the Toronto urban patriots on your list. Choose from various types of buttons, tote bags, magnets and games that celebrate the city’s neighbourhoods, or gift a book on local architecture and history. For the lighthearted, there are also various products that proudly feature images of raccoons, the unofficial mascot of Toronto.
Location: 401 Richmond Street West, Toronto
Online shopping details: taxes and shipping will be calculated at checkout
The Maker’s Hub
Artisans are connected with buyers online. Learn about the creative makers behind some of these wonderful products and feel great about supporting local artisans and makers.
Location: 1380 Hopkins Street, Unit 5, Whitby
Online shopping details: purchase online for pick-up at the store
One and Only
From home decor and artwork to bath and beauty items, find unique local and Canadian-made artisan gifts, including zero-waste and refillable products.
Location: 215 St Andrew Street West, Fergus
Online shopping details: shipping available across Canada; allow 2–4 weeks for delivery
One Of A Kind Show
Toronto’s favourite craft and artisan marketplace takes place November 24–December 4, 2022. Buy tickets online and shop from hundreds of the best Canadian artists and makers.
Location: Enercare Care, 100 Princes’ Boulevard
Willow + Oak
Find hand-crafted décor, apparel and accessories in this charming boutique, including their "man cave" collection, a great selection of meaningful gifts for the men on your list.
Location: 4215 Petrolia Line, Petrolia
Online shopping details: local pick-up and free shipping on orders over $150
Markets Ontario
Markets Ontario is a boutique multi-vendor marketplace, bringing the best of Ontario's handmade products together in one convenient location. With three locations, Markets features high-quality artisanal home goods, food, clothing and more from 150+ local vendors.
Locations: 66 Baldwin Street, Unit 304, Brooklin, Whitby; 62 King Street West, Bowmanville; 1355 Kingston Road, Pickering
Online shopping details: $5 flat rate delivery charge to areas in Durham Region; free in-store pick-up
Curbside pick-up available at the Bowmanville location; in-store pick-up at all three locations
RAD Studio + Eco Store
Buy unique eco-friendly products that include activities for children of all ages, baby essentials, environmentally safe products for kitchens, bathroom and laundry room and delicious food to fill pantries.
Location: 264 King Street West, Chatham
Online shopping details: flat rate shipping is available across Canada
Wellness and beauty
K Body Blends
In addition to delicious and nutritious pre-made African cuisine, Brands by K offers organic skincare, body blends and Halal beauty products and cosmetics celebrating diversity.
Location: Ingersoll
Online shopping details: shipping available across Canada; costs calculated at checkout
Steed & Co. Lavender Farm
Give the gift of serenity in a basket featuring lavender soaps, lotions and lip balm. Lavender enthusiasts will appreciate the personal care taken to harvest the different types of lavender from one of Ontario’s favourite lavender farms in Elgin County.
Location: currently moving to Southampton, Ontario; see their website for details
Online shopping details: shipping costs vary by location
Haute Goat
Legend has it that Cleopatra bathed in raw goat milk for its anti-aging properties. These nutrient packed, hand-made goat milk skin care products are fit for the queen on your list.
Location: 1166 5th Line, Port Hope
Online shopping details: shipping charge will be calculated at checkout
Fulton’s Farm
Organic bath products with a hint of maple-scented luxury sold by Ottawa’s Fulton’s Farm make for great gifts. The products contain shea butter for ultimate moisturizing during dry winter months.
Location: 399 Sugar Bush Road, Pakenham
Online shopping details: free pick-up options are available; shipping charge will be calculated at checkout
Serendipity Soy Candles
Choose from over 250 organically made soy candles that are clean burning for the zen seeker on your shopping list. Photo candles add that personal touch to your gift.
Location: 453 Hume Street, Collingwood
Online shopping details: shipping costs will be calculated at checkout
The Scented Market
Eco-friendly Scented Market makes products with quality ingredients and has environmental programs such as the jar return program. Signature fragrances can be purchased seasonally. During the winter, indulge in the blend of Balsam fir and light citrus with ’Tis The Season candles or the sweet minty scent of peppermint with North Pole candles.
Locations: 260 Edinburgh Road South, Guelph, 9 Queen Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake and 187 St. Andrews Street West, Fergus
Online shopping details: free shipping on purchases over $150
Wylde Rose Handmade Soaps
Find your new favourite scent and great gifts from this extensive collection of handmade soaps, bath, body and beauty products.
Location: 10 King George Road, Brantford
Online shopping details: shipping and taxes will be calculated at checkout
For the kids
Ontario Science Centre
If you're looking for gifts for kids that are not toys, consider the gift of books or memberships. Ontario Science Centre (OSC) and The Maker Bean Café have collaborated on books that answer many profound questions that kids ask. They're the perfect gift for curious young minds who always ask, “why?” If kids have even more questions, gift them an OSC membership.
Location: 770 Don Mills Road, North York
Aquatarium Gift Shop
Find fun, unique and educational gifts at the Aquatarium Gift Shop. Use the members discount code if you already have a membership. If not, you should add a yearly Aquatarium membership to your shopping list. The Aquatarium at Tall Ships Landing is a fascinating discovery centre featuring land and aquatic animals of the 1000 Islands region, including Justin, a North American Beaver.
Location: 6 Broad Street, Brockville
Mini Mioche
Simple, soft, comfy basic clothes and accessories for babies and kids made from organic cotton. All clothing knit, dyed, cut and sewn in Canada.
Location: 795 Queen Street West, Toronto
Online shopping details: free shipping within Canada on orders over $100
Tickled Pink
There’s a wide variety of kids’ clothes and accessories at this independent gift store owned by a couple fittingly named Jack and Jill. Snug animal-themed mittens make adorable puppets in addition to keeping little hands warm. Reversible toques give little ones the choice to sport different looks. There's also a wide selection of merchandise for grown-ups.
Location: 55 Byward Market Square, Ottawa
Online shopping details: free local delivery over $100; flat shipping within Canada is $16
Hip Kids
From strollers to Tiny Tims, Hip Kids is one of the best places in Kingston to buy stylish baby clothes and unique baby products. You’ll also find great gift ideas made by “local makers” at this independently-owned family business.
Location: 233 Princess Street, Kingston
Online shopping details: free local delivery on purchases over $30 and in-store pick-up
August Kinn
Shop for cute children's attire that will make an adorable statement. You can also stock up on cozy and essential accessories and outerwear for babies and toddlers.
Location: 1374 Danforth Avenue, Toronto
Online shopping details: free shipping on online orders over $100 (some exclusions); order online for free pick-up
Sprout Baby
Handmade and organic knit baby and toddler wear, including an exclusive Northern Collection line of adorable "I’m a Northern Kid" hats and clothes.
Location: 899 B Kingsway, Greater Sudbury
Online shopping details: free local pick-up; free shipping on Canadian orders over $150
Spark Toys
From outdoor toys to brain builder tools, there are countless of activities and toys for kids of all ages. Entertaining toys will keep the younger kids busy for a long time and older kids will want to solve complicated puzzles and head-scratching brain teaser activities. There are also a lot of great playful solutions to make road trips enjoyable for the kids (and parents).
Location: 30 King Street West, Cobourg
Online shopping details: store pick-up; shipping will be calculated at checkout
Chickadee Kids Company
Located in central Burlington, this store sells quality toys and books that are fun and educational for kids under six. Toys are organized according to the growth and development of children, so you can browse types of toys for different age groups. Whether you're looking for the perfect item to engage a toddler or expand the curiosity of a four-year-old, there are plenty of unique gift selections available.
Location: 2178 Mountain Grove Avenue, Burlington
Online shopping details: free store pick-up; shipping is a flat $20 across Ontario
Rustic gifts
W.E. Made It
Representing local artisans and makers in the Windsor Essex area producing unique, local goods and gifts.
Location: Windsor Essex
Online shopping details: see individual vendors for more online shopping details
Chuck and Wood
Beautiful and functional wooden furniture, boards and lifestyle products are created in a modest North Bay workshop. Order a hand-crafted cheese board with premium waterproof finishing for the charcuterie board enthusiast or a unique bar tap or growler caddy for the beer lover.
Online shopping only
The Lemonade Stand
Specializing in farmhouse decor, this creative vintage studio is your go-to for friends or family who love the rustic chic look.
Location: 26 Brock Street West, Uxbridge
Online shopping details: choose from shipping or pick-up at online checkout; shipping rates calculated at checkout
Maker House Company
There’s no shortage of unique, upcycled, locally-made gifts and furniture at this Ottawa gem. The curated collections include a broad range of DIY kits for the crafty people on your list. When you shop at Maker House, part of the profits goes towards local community groups through its #CraftChange movement.
Location: 987 Wellington Street West
Online shopping details: free regular shipping in Canada for orders over $199; curbside pick-up is also available
Made In Northumberland
From homemade honey and hand-crafted beer to hand-turned wooden bowls or glass-blown art, each of these locally-made pieces represents pride of place.
Location: Northumberland County
Online shopping details: see individual vendors for more online shopping details
Indigenous innovations
Mulberry Design & Engravings
Located in Waterloo Region, this Indigenous-owned business, inspired by Montessori methods, produces early language learning games and activities that connect to the traditional dialects of First Nations, Inuit and Metis languages. You can also request to have existing products customized.
Online shopping details: pick-up is available; shipping information available at checkout
Wolf Den
Choose from among a wide selection of intricately detailed Indigenous arts and crafts, including hand-crafted pottery, birchbark and porcupine boxes, jewellery, carvings and an assortment of warm and comfortable moccasins.
Location: 43 James Street, Parry Sound
Online shopping details: shipping options include tracking and insurance
Janelle Wawia
Talented Anishinaabe Thunder Bay artist, Janelle Wawia, has received numerous accolades for her work.
Online shopping details: items can be purchased online only; contact Janelle about custom orders
The Snow Goose Gallery
Specializing in Indigenous arts and crafts for over 50 years, including sculptures, drawings, carvings and moccasins. Contact directly for special requests.
Location: 83 Sparks Street, Ottawa
Online shopping details: taxes and shipping will be calculated at checkout
Thunderbird Crafts & Trading Co.
Offering an extensive selection of authentic, high quality First Nations crafts and supplies, including handcrafted blankets, jewellery and artwork.
Location: 6312 Indian Lane, Lambton Shores
For shipping info, call (519) 786-4775 or email info@thunderbirdcrafts.com
Whetung Ojibwa Centre
Explore a wide variety of Indigenous art, crafts and gifts from sculptures, paintings and prints to pottery and accessories at this store located near Peterborough.
Location: 875 Mississauga Street, Curve Lake
Online shopping details: free shipping in Canada on orders of $250 or more
Mādahòkì Farm: Indigenous Virtual Marketplace
Shop online for unique pieces of art, craft, jewellery and more and help support Indigenous small businesses, artists and artisans.
Location: 4420 West Hunt Club Road, Nepean
Online shopping details: shipping and taxes calculated at checkout.
For the angler
Insider List of Ice Fishing Gifts
Gord Pyzer, the fishing editor of Outdoor Canada Magazine, puts on his Santa hat to give you some inexpensive, can’t-miss suggestions for the ice fishing enthusiasts on your gift-giving list.
Experience gifts
Museum Memberships
Ontario’s museums and cultural galleries span an incredible breadth and depth of education and entertainment. And with new exhibits and events throughout the year, there’s always something more to discover. Treat your loved ones to the magic of Ontario’s museums with annual passes and memberships.
Resorts of Ontario Gift Certificates
The most precious gift is often time spent together. Gift a Resorts of Ontario Gift Certificate and plan a memorable getaway in Ontario.
Holiday Gift Guide for the Outdoor Lovers
From wilderness survival training courses to winter camping excursions, gift the adventurer on your list an unforgettable outdoor experience in Ontario’s Highlands.
Seven-course tasting menu at Park Hyatt Toronto
Experience a seasonally driven tasting menu featuring a seven-course menu led by Park Hyatt Toronto’s Chef Jonathan Williams and his culinary team from Joni restaurant. The flavourful tasting menu further showcases Ontario ingredients when paired with wine. This multi-course experience is $120 per person with an additional $65 for wine pairing. Book this experience online.
Note: Please confirm delivery details with each business before ordering as options may change.
Get even more shopping ideas this season:
Last updated: September 19, 2023