Top Tips for Stress-Free Canadian Holiday Shopping
Holiday shopping in Canada is an enjoyable, diverse, experience with rich holiday traditions to learn and discover. In high street areas to intimate local markets, there are various and often unique opportunities to encounter the perfect gifts for family and friends while backing local enterprises. Following are some guidelines for Christmas shopping in Canada which may help you cope with the festive period and have an enjoyable shopping experience.
Shop locally and support small businesses
Giving back to local shops and businesses is one of the best ways to experience the Canadian holiday season this year.
. Canada is home to many small stores, artisan businesses and independent boutiques that offer unique gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Visit farmers markets, craft fairs or artisan stores to purchase handmade goods such as jewellery, pottery and local foods like maple syrup or artisan chocolates. Many cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal and Ottawa host regular Christmas markets where you can not only find special and meaningful gifts, but also delicious holiday foods to promote the Christmas spirit.
Benefit from seasonal sales and discounts
Although Black Friday and Cyber Monday are the most important shopping days for Canadians, there are often special offers in stores throughout the holiday season. Be on the lookout for special deals, especially on Boxing Day (Dec. 26), as many Canadian retailers offer deep discounts on clothing and electronics. Many stores in Canada offer free delivery or the option to buy online and pick up in store (bopis) to make your Christmas shopping easier.
Shop early
The closer we get to Christmas, the more hectic life becomes on the high street and online. To avoid the stress of last-minute shopping and the fear of popular items being out of stock, start your Christmas shopping early. Most Canadian stores start selling Christmas items and special offers in November. So use the extra time to get the best gift and avoid the Christmas rush in December.
Prefer Gifts Related to Canadian culture
Canada has distinctive products and its national emblems, so gifts related to Canadian culture are easy to procure. Thinking about, maybe Canadian apparel from companies like Roots, Lululemon or Canada Goose, which sell high-quality, warm winter apparel. Maple syrup, ice wine, Canadian whiskey (e.g. Crown Royal), snus and regional chocolate always go down well, and a number of specialty stores offer gift baskets with some of these iconic Canadian products.
Prefer Environmental friendly Gifts
With many shoppers increasingly concerned about sustainability, it’s worth considering buying eco-conscious gifts that are both thoughtful and sustainable. Look for brands that offer sustainably made, reusable goods, such as reusable stainless steel water bottles, organically produced sustainable tote bags or organic fabrics. Many Canadian retailers now carry green versions of everyday items, so you can buy a gift that is both eco- friendly and a gift for your friend or family member (who has a heart).
Pay attention to the deadlines
When buying gifts for your loved ones in Canada, be aware of shipping deadlines, especially during the busy holiday season. Canadian retailers often provide estimated shipping dates and delivery options. So plan ahead to ensure your gifts arrive on time. When shipping internationally, be aware of the deadlines for cross-border deliveries, as delivery can sometimes be delayed due to the holiday rush.
Give experiences, not just things
Sometimes the most valuable gift is not a material gift, but an experience that creates a lasting memory. For example, give the gift of tickets to a Canadian concert, a theater performance or a sporting event. You could also give the gift of a spa day, a cooking class or simply a vacation at a local resort. Experience gifts are ideal for people who already have everything or for people who prefer to experience something rather than own something material.
If you take these tips to heart, you can experience the Canadian holiday season stress-free. Whether you’re looking for unique local gifts, supporting small businesses or taking advantage of holiday sales, there are plenty of ways to find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list while enjoying the festive season.
