/
Shop Local Holiday Gift Guide 2025
Archetypes are anything but typical when you shop local
3 hours ago
Nick Warren
It's that time of year again – our city sidewalks are starting to be dressed in holiday style. Do you feel that in the air? It's a feeling of Christmas… And we're here, your helpful little local-loving Erie Reader elves, to bring you the always-anticipated 2025 Shop Local Holiday Gift Guide. It is our hope that the following suggestions, grouped this year by personal interest archetypes, will give you a starting off point for creative, thoughtful, appreciated, and most importantly, LOCAL gift giving.
Whether your loved one is a reader, a gardener, an athlete, a homebody, or maybe all of those things, we've got plenty of suggestions for locally sourced goods, businesses, and makers to support this year. We've made sure to include a good amount of "experience" gifts – basically funding an opportunity for your loved one to get out, try something new, build community, and maybe come away with a new passion or hobby. Those are the kinds of gifts that truly keep on giving all year long.
We hope that this list inspires you to find something new to love about Erie. As you can see from the word count, there's a lot! Happy local shopping and happy holidays, to all of our Reader readers.
Jump to a section: The Bookworm // The Sports Fan // The Gamer // The History Buff // The Home Cook // The Audiophile // The Overstressed // The Grill Master // The Weekend Warrior // The Homebody // The Entertainer // The Crafter // The Fashionista // The Sommelier // The Animal Lover // The Beer Snob // The Yogi // The Cinephile // The Gym Rat // The Green Thumb // The Teenager // The Impossible to Buy For
Photo: Erin Phillips
The obvious direction here is to support a local bookstore, but things get tricky in terms of what to get – does your giftee enjoy mysteries, romance, historical fiction? Have they read that book already? Accessories are always a fun way to go and local bookstores like Werner Books and Coffee or Pressed carry plenty of literary-themed accessories like candles that smell like old books, reading lights, journals, bookish apparel, or handmade bookmarks.
One off-the-beaten-path shelf to stop and shop is the Local Authors section, for a hyper-local Erie gift experience. Taking a moment to shamelessly plug some books published by our Erie Reader contributors, we recommend Can I Change the World With a Doodle? by Anthony Carson and Living in the Moment by Tommy Link (both Erie Reader comic artists). Cover art contributor and 40 Under 40 alum Brenna Thummler has a fun and touching graphic novel series called The Sheets Collection, a great gift for bookworms of all ages.
Photo: Erin Phillips
Licensed national sports team apparel is largely available through well-established corporate outfits but if you're looking for something a little more local and a little more subtle – Erie Apparel has got your fandom covered. You can find Erie Otters and Erie SeaWolves gear and stickers at Erie Apparel, along with vintage Erie teams like the Cardinals, Sailors, or the Blades.
If you're looking for more than a t-shirt, stop by the Erie Insurance Arena or the SeaWolves clubhouse (or online at their individual websites) for merch of all sorts (including some of that elusive, collectible, perfectly purple Moon Mammoths gear).
In a more niche way, a stop into Turn 2 Sports Cards and Collectibles located in Village West reveals items that span the athletic world – perfect for any sports memorabilia collector's shelf.
Photo: Erin Phillips
While many gamers these days self-define as the "video" variety, the subculture got its start through people collectively playing physical games in rooms together – D&D, Magic the Gathering, Warhammer, and the like. To get the gamer on your list kicking it old school, check out local spots like Gateway Games, Books Galore, or Griffin's Lair for supplies, dice, strategy games, miniatures, guidebooks, merch, and more.
If you're looking for something local to give the die-hard video gamer in your life, check out the products created by Whitethorn Games. Or give them a day of non-stop arcade gaming fun with friends at Play Port.
Photo: Jessica Hunter
Erie has a rich and fascinating history with a strategic military spot on our Great Lake, our industry and manufacturing, our colorful tapestry of immigrant neighborhoods, and our natural resources like Presque Isle State Park. For local history buffs, the Carriage House Visitor Center and Gift Shop at the Hagen History Center, nestled into the former Carriage House of the Watson Curtze Mansion stocks local history books and publications (like their annual magazine, The Triangle), maps, flags, art, and collectibles (there are even options for the history-loving kiddo on your list). Or give a membership, so your loved one can visit the inspiring museum whenever they feel that itch for the past.
Additionally, visit the Maritime Museum gift shop located within the lobby area of the Maritime Museum in the Blasco Library building for some local seafaring historical merchandise or check out Presque Isle Gallery and Gifts in the Tom Ridge Environmental Center for a book or art piece celebrating our natural history.
Photo: Kenneth Bownes
Speaking as a proudly adventurous home cook, I can say with certainty that there is no greater gift for my ilk than a gift card to A. Caplan Company. I could stop and look in there for hours. If you'd prefer to give something tangible, consider springing for some prime steaks from Gordon's Butcher and Market or Urbaniak Brothers Quality Meats. Or, for a thoughtful piece of art that doubles as a functional kitchen tool, consider a high quality, handmade spoon, scoop, or spatula from Erie Woodcraft or a custom made cutting board from Lake Erie Variety.
If you know the home cook on your list is toying with the idea of getting into sourdough bread baking, there is a constant supply of sourdough starter available at Herb and Honey Bakery. Locally milled flours are available at the Edinboro Market. Those items paired with some sourdough supplies (available locally through the aforementioned A. Caplan Company), and you're likely to be gifted your own homemade loaf in the near future.
Photo: Erin Phillips
For the music lover in your life, some locally sourced, collectible vinyl from Graham's Records or Rick's Record Store (located within 1020 Collective) is always a welcome sight under the tree. Taking it a step further, much like the Bookworm, for a hyper-local audio experience, buying local music directly from local bands is the best way to support the Erie music scene. Attend a show and grab a CD or some vinyl, maybe a shirt to go with it – you'll make a musician's day and gift a nice package of some local sonic love.
Tickets to an Erie Philharmonic concert or a touring band coming through the Warner Theatre, Centennial Hall, or the Kings Rook Club is a fun and inspiring way to honor the audiophile on your list.
If your giftee is a musician themselves, consider a set of guitar strings, sheet music, gear, cables, or a new axe from spots like World of Music, Nolan School of Music, or Phelps Brothers Guitar.
Photo: Jessica Hunter
The holidays are full of magic and wonder, and behind all that magic and wonder is someone working their ass off to make it all happen. And that's not easy. Gift the person in your family holding it all together the gift of relaxation. A locally-made coconut wax candle from The Candle Box Company, particularly from their aromatherapy collection, will help set busy minds at ease. Some handmade, all natural soap from Lady G. Artisan Soap company or a shower steamer or bath bomb from Erie Bubble Company makes any day a spa day.
Or, of course, there's always the option of giving your stressed-out loved one an actual spa day. Our top three Best of Erie winners from 2024 are Coventina Day and Med Spa, Panache Salon and Spa, or Rejuv MedSpa, Salon, and Wellness.
Photo: Bad Larry BBQ
Just because summer is over, doesn't mean the grill has to go away. I have fond childhood memories of my dad out in a blizzard, grilling us up some dinner. For that die-hard grillmaster on your list, consider some locally made, custom barbecue tools and accessories from Bad Larry Barbecue – like some American-made stainless steel, heavy-duty grilling tongs and double-pronged skewers – your giftee will be grilling in style and quality.
For more of a culinary twist, consider a locally made barbecue rub from Underdog BBQ, like their signature Rust Belt Rub, or some locally made sauces from Urbaniak Brothers Quality Meats.
Photo: Erin Phillips
If your loved one is the adventurous type, there's no shortage of local gift ideas for the active, outdoorsperson. Whether it's biking, hiking, camping, or all three, some high quality gear built to last from Hikes and Hose will always be welcome. Sustainably made bike bags to hold all the things for a weekend of bikepacking, water bottle holders, bags and totes – your Hikes and Hose gear will be up for any challenge.
Consider stopping by the Erie Bike Co-Op for some cycling supplies or a new-to-you bike. They have unique, rare, and vintage "fancy bikes" that are hard to find elsewhere. And you'll feel assured knowing that your purchase is going towards the group's mission of getting affordable bikes into the community, particularly for those folks who need them most.
If you'd like to give the adventurous spirit on your list an actual adventure, consider showing them the ropes (and ziplines) at Peek'n Peak Mountain Adventures or treating them to day on the lake via Your Sailing Adventure. Whether it's a sunset sail or lessons, an adventure on the water is a great choice.
Wintertime in Erie offers something that our summers never can: coziness. For the loved one on your list who loves some serious cozy time, a gift facilitating that feeling is always welcome.
Warm bevvies are the key to that hygge life – consider a relaxing, artisanal, hand blended tea from the HopLeaf Tea Company, which combines the brewed flavors of hops with herbs and teas. A loose leaf peppermint hops or a barrel-aged pumpkin spiced black tea sound like the perfect pairing with twinkle lights, a roaring fire, and a vintage holiday record. Sweeten that brew with some local raw honey from Hogs and Honey, River Honey, or One Acre Honey and you've got yourself a cuppa cozy.
Additionally, key to a comfy night in are plenty of throw pillows and blankets. Visit one of Erie's own home decor shops like Vintage and Soul Home, Trellis on 8th, or Grasshopper for plenty of snuggly varieties.
Photo: Jessica Hunter
If the loved one on your list loves to host, consider some items to make their next dinner party extra special. Locally made ceramics will create an elegant and one-of-a kind table setting. Allen Stoneware or Moose Head Pottery both carry an ample supply of drink and table wares. Check out Gem City Mercantile online for mix-and-match vintage china, glasses, and other tableware for a uniquely cottage-core, eclectic look.
If your giftee is an amateur (or professional) mixologist, consider a gift of locally distilled spirits like Altered State or Luminary, or some spirit-free cocktails from Blind Tiger. For balloon bouquets or arrangements, consider Balloons by Nat to make your giftee's next event stand out.
Photo: Three Tulips Yarn Company
Really, the best gift for anyone who loves to craft is something homemade. Nothing speaks to the heart of a crafter better than an item made with love. But if you'd like to include something more, consider the craft! If your loved one is a knitter or crocheter, a skein of locally spun or hand-dyed yarn is always a treat. Check out Three Tulips Yarn Company or Slow Formations or Tupelo Acres for some thoughtful, hand-produced yarns and goods.
If scrapbooking is the cut of your crafter's jib, classes and supplies are available locally through Monkey Business Scrapbook Lounge.
The Village Smithy Emporium, located in the Liberty Plaza, offers a fabric supply alternative for those who choose to steer away from corporate box stores. Have a look around and find some other bits and bobs for the quilter or budding fashion designer on your list.
If you'd like to make your holiday cards particularly bespoke this year, consider making them on Grounded Print and Paper Shop handmade paper. Proprietor Ashley Pastore (40 Under 40 Class of 2022) often incorporates unexpected materials into her paper like flowers, dried invasive plant species, or naturally-sourced, foraged dyes – making each sheet one-of-a-kind.
Photo: Jessica Hunter
For that person who always likes to stand out in a room, consider some unique, locally designed pieces from Dotigan Clothing Co., rabbit3, Produce and Protect Studios, or Melancholy Brand.
Or do a little poking around in some of our expertly curated boutique shops like the OG Erie vintage clothier The Dollhouse at Pointe Foure, or Primo or Bespoke tailor shops, all conveniently located downtown.
If jewelry floats your fashionable friend's boat, consider an heirloom piece from a local jeweler like Lighthouse Jewelers, Dahlkempers, or Ralph Miller or something pretty from Relish (specializing in beach glass jewelry for that hyper-local look). Glass Growers Gallery or City Gallery provides pieces with an artistic, unique flair. You can always go the handmade route with a piece from Clae Handmade, Copper Twig, or Infinity Bonds.
Photo: Jessica Hunter
Nestled in our spot on the Lake Erie Wine Trial, we have plenty of regionally sourced grapes and no shortage of wineries turning them into an abundance of that ancient elixir of the gods. Local wines from any of our local wineries are sure to excite the palate of the budding sommelier on your list.
If you'd like to gift more of an experience for your wino, Rupp Limousine Services provides tailored wine tours for every taste or book the Flagship Trolley for a larger group – what's better than a gorgeous afternoon in North East spent with friends, sipping on local wine?
Go Gray Artwork/Erin Phillips
Whether you're purchasing for the pet or the pet-lover on your list, locally-sourced pet products, toys, treats, grooming supplies, and more can be purchased from good old Buzz n' Bees. Little-known fact: the Erie Humane Society has a retail store in their lobby with gear, toys, and more – purchases from that shop directly benefit the animals in their care.
Honor or memorialize the goodest doggos or kitties in your life with a custom made pet portrait. Local artist Allison Gray (of Go Gray Artwork) creates stunning watercolor portraits of your best loved buddies (she does require some lead time, be aware). She also offers pet-related apparel, prints, and jewelry, all while donating a portion of every item sold to local rescue organization Because You Care.
Photo: Jessica Hunter
Erie sure does love a good beer. If you've been paying attention, you'll know that we all really enjoy taking a locally brewed beer for a walk (as those of us within the city limits deeply appreciate our lack of open-container law). To our minds, the best way to support the local beer snob is by giving them local beer! A six pack, mixed six, or growler full of a local microbrew from Erie Ale Works, Lavery Brewing Company, Black Monk Brewery (or the scads of others scattered throughout the county), will always go down easy for the hops lover on your list.
Additionally, these breweries offer merch like etched and branded mugs and glasses, koozies, apparel, and more. OR gift your regular a Mug Club membership (available from any of the aforementioned breweries), which gives them more of a reason to get out and try all the newest brews on tap.
Photo: Jessica Hunter
Erie has some very beautiful, eclectic yoga spaces that offer perfect options for in-person classes at all yoga levels. Gifting a series of classes from Infinite Love Yoga, YogaErie, or Studio Sage (among others) will get the flexible, peaceful person on your list out and experiencing different instructors and vibes. Infinite Love also offers yoga-related classes like sound baths, aura photography, and options for yoga on the beach or amongst the kitties at Purrista Cat Cafe.
If you're in need of some supplies, YogaErie carries yoga mats, blocks, straps, and other gear at their local studio.
For the metaphysical in general, be sure to stop in to Cauldron and Thorne to re-up your yogi's sage and crystal supply – they'll be thanking you all year long in their deep, meditative thoughts.
Photo: Nick Warren
During the wintertime in Erie it can be very easy to sink into that "Homebody" archetype, especially if you're the movie-watching sort. Getting the film buff on your list off the couch is the real gift. Consider scheduling them a screening of their favorite movie at the Erie Movie House – you can rent the space, bring your friends, and your favorite movie. They'll screen it, provide the popcorn, and access to arcade games. Seeing A Christmas Story or It's a Wonderful Life on the big screen? That's some holiday magic!
For more of an arthouse vibe, FilmErie, the newest incarnation of the Film Society of NWPA, is offering weekly screenings of indie films locally at the 1020 Collective in their Film1020 series. Tickets to a show or two is the perfect experience gift for the cinephile on your list.
Photo: Jessica Hunter
The holidays often come followed up by New Year's resolutions – if you know your loved one has set health goals for themselves in the new year, a gift gym membership or gift card to their gym of choice would be a welcome boost.
If your giftee is a runner, consider some new gear or gadgets from the Achilles Running Shop – with quality products and experts who know all the challenges of the roads and trails, they're sure to get you set up with something that will be appreciated.
John Adams Cycling and Fitness carries top-of-the-line cycling gear, accessories, and bikes, but they also encourage fitness through cycling in all ways – and in Erie in the wintertime, that often means the stationary variety. Keep your cyclist fit all year round with an indoor trainer or a gift card towards one.
Photo: Erin Phillips
Any real gardener will tell you that their season truly doesn't end. The winter months are spent dreaming and planning the eventual bounty of their spring and summer gardens. Facilitating their winter dreams by gifting them gardening gear will guarantee a healthy pile of homegrown zucchini on your doorstep come July. Good Ideas Inc. is a locally owned manufacturer of high quality lawn and garden products. Nearly all of their goods are produced right here in Erie County, at their Lake City facility. Rain barrels, composters, planters, and raised beds are sure to please any green thumb.
For more indoor greenery, there are a number of small, independent plant propagators as alternatives to a trip to the greenhouse. Consider shopping super small and supporting Steph's Sprouts, Neon Plant Co., or Choppy Poppy's Plants & Propagations and bringing some of the outside in.
Photo: Erin Phillips
Coming from someone who has one of those newly formed teen-aged people, I can say with certainty that the best possible gift for any member of Gen Z is whatever will get them out of their rooms and experiencing the community!
Escape rooms! Erie has options like Escape Game Erie and Covert Escape Game to get your teen together with friends, working as a team, and hanging out in a wholesome way.
Consider tickets: a pops concert with the Erie Philharmonic, a cool, all-ages local show at Centennial Hall, or a big-name comedy act at the Warner Theatre or Kellar's Comedy Club.
For the sportier kiddos, consider a Peek'N Peak ski pass or an afternoon of kayaking with Presque Isle Boat Rental to get them outdoors, active, and enjoying Erie's natural resources. Or for the animal-loving teen, book them a snuggle session at Purrista Cat Cafe. Gift that kid an hour getting whimsical with some adoptable kitties. What teen among us couldn't use a bit more whimsy?
Photo: Erin Phillips
There's always that one person… that person who has everything, wants for nothing, is happy just being around loved ones during the holiday season. But to give them nothing just seems wrong, especially as these folks tend to be among the most important in our lives. Consider donating to a local nonprofit in their honor, one that is especially meaningful to your giftee.
Booking a session for family photos at a local photography studio or on site with a local photographer will provide another opportunity to get all of the family together, with plenty of mementos to treasure.
Make them something! As a parent myself, I can say that my children will never be too old to give me something handmade that I will love forever. Look out for workshops and classes at Blasco Memorial Library's Idea Lab – whether it's 3D printing, laser cutting or engraving, button making, book binding, and more – to make something unique and from the heart. Additionally, art spaces like Erie Clayspace, Grounded Print and Paper Shop, and the Erie Art Museum offer plenty of classes that will have you coming away with something tangible and creative to give that hard-to-buy-for person.
And, if I may be so bold, consider gifting a subscription to this very publication that is enriching your life right now. The Erie Reader is and always will be free to read, but it is definitely not free to make. If you know your loved one enjoys our publication and would like to see local print media continue to bolster our community, consider subscribing your loved one for $15 a month. Your giftee will then have the Reader sent to their door every month (along with other fun perks). Click the donate button at the top of our website to learn more.
Happy Holidays from all of us at the Reader to all of you! We couldn't do any of this without you!
Erin Phillips qualifies as a Bookworm, Home Cook, History Buff, Crafter, and Green Thumb, in case anyone's looking for ideas. She can be reached at erin@eriereader.com
