November 24, 2017

Find a special treat from the Maritimes for everyone on your list this year

The holiday season is upon us, which means you’re probably searching high and low for the perfect gifts for everyone on your list. To make sure you enjoy a little more rest and relaxation during the season, we’ve put together this holiday gift guide with a Maritime twist. Whether you’re shopping for one special someone or your list so long you need to check it twice, you’ll find plenty of great ideas in our Maritime holiday gift guide.

Something for the kids

Shopping for the youngest people on your list can be tricky, so instead of specific items, we suggest that you check out one of the many great toy stores in the Maritimes to see what catches the eye of your little one. Halifax is home to Woozles, which has been delighting children with books, toys, and activities for nearly 40 years. Stopping in and walking through this charming downtown shop will instantly transport you back to your own childhood, but remember, you’re shopping for someone else!

In Saint John, you’ll find Paddington Station in Brunswick Square. For over 20 years, this toy and clothing shop has been a staple for New Brunswick children looking for unique gifts they’ll cherish forever. If you’d rather a one-of-a-kind toy for your child, you’ll love the Toy Factory in New Glasgow, Prince Edward Island. For 45 years, the Toy Factory has been handcrafting traditional wooden toys that dazzle and delight children. Surprise your young one with a rocking horse, toy train, or spinning top just like the ones you enjoyed as a child!

For your fashionable friends

Whether you’re giving a gift to remind someone special of home or trying to replicate that unique sense of Maritime style, our holiday gift guide has you covered. If the person you’re shopping for loves accessories, definitely consider picking up a piece of Blomidon Bling for them. The Blomidon Bling jewellers make their pieces from agate—a beautiful type of quartz found on the shores of the Bay of Fundy. Because each piece of agate is unique, Blomidon Bling is a one-of-a-kind addition to the collection of someone you care about. Best of all, you can buy Blomidon Bling in the gift shop of the mv Fundy Rose on your journey between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia!

If you’re looking for something to keep your friends and family warm this winter, check out Northern Watters Knitwear in Charlottetown. Not only will you find beautiful knitted accessories, sweaters, and giftware for the winter months, you can also purchase yarn to knit your own custom piece for someone special. Gabs & Eddy crochet hats are also a great option for looking cool and staying warm in the winter. Best of all, they make hats for every member of the family, including your fashionable fur baby!

For classic elegance, pay a visit to Amos Pewter on the Halifax waterfront. Here, you’ll find a beautiful assortment ornaments, home decor, and jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, and bracelets for her, and belt buckles, cufflinks, and rings for him.

For the outdoor enthusiast in your life

Winter is a great time for outdoor fun in the Maritimes. If you have someone in your life who won’t let a little snow get in their way, then we have a few fantastic suggestions for you, starting with a season’s pass at one of the many ski and snowboard hills across the Maritimes. Whether they are a beginner or an expert shredder, your loved one will want to spend as much time as possible cruising down the mountain.

If you’d rather more of a relaxing time in nature, consider a weekend in the Tranquility Dome at Cabot Shores in Cape Breton. This 16-foot geodesic dome offers a beautiful view of the ocean and a comfortable bed surrounded by nature. This unforgettable experience is available year-round, meaning it’s a great gift to be redeemed any time of the year!

To learn more about great outdoor activities (and maybe a few additional gift ideas!) check out our recent blog post on winter fun in the Maritimes.

For your favourite travel buddy

Not everyone likes spending time outdoors in the winter, but that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a weekend away with friends and family. Why not have a weekend adventure away, starting with a winter trip on the mv Fundy Rose? Not only will you have the unique opportunity to see the Bay of Fundy (and a few of its inhabitants) from the warmth of the ferry, you’ll also have a wide range of our partner hotels and resorts to choose from when you arrive. Whether you’re looking for a nice place to rest your head or for the ultimate weekend of luxurious pampering, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect place to stay. Best of all, you can book your weekend getaway online today!

For the art lovers

If you have an art lover on your shopping list, you’ll find much to love throughout the Maritimes. Consider tickets to a stage show at one of our many fine theatres. The Neptune Theatre in Halifax, the Confederation Centre for the Arts in Charlottetown, and the Imperial Theatre in Saint John showcase performances all-year long, from plays to stand-up comedians and musicians. Find a perfect show and enjoy a special night out.

A membership to the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia also makes a great gift. Annual membership grants access to the main AGNS gallery in Halifax, as well as the Western Branch near The CAT ferry terminal in Yarmouth. If that isn’t enough, membership also gives you access to 13 other galleries across the country (including the Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton). Your art critic can wander the halls full of stunning artwork, receive invitations to exclusive events, enjoy discounts at the Gallery shop, and more with their AGNS membership.

For a little artistic inspiration before you shop, take a look through our Guide to the Maritimes for Art Lovers.

For the foodie

If you have someone who loves trying new foods on your list, then you’re in luck! The Maritimes are a foodie haven, and you’ll find something here for every taste. In the Annapolis Valley, you’ll find the Tangled Garden, a hidden treasure crafting homemade jams, jellies, vinegars, chutneys, mustards, and more! Made from fresh herbs and fruits in picked directly on the property, the products at Tangled Garden make a flavourful addition to any meal.

If the person you’re shopping for is a fan of cheese, consider stopping at either the Dieppe or Fredericton market on Saturday to pick up a delicious selection of goat cheese from Fromagerie Au Fond Des Bois. These fine cheesemakers offer an incredible variety of cheeses made from pasteurized goat milk that are certain to delight the foodie in your life.

If you’re searching for a gift for someone with a notorious sweet tooth, be certain to visit the Prince Edward Island Preserve Company in New Glasgow, PEI for a delicious selection of local maple syrup, honey, marmalades and other preserves that are sure to bring a smile to their face. While you’re here, take a look at their collection of mugs and teapots. You never know, you might find something for yourself as well!

Thanks to our Maritime holiday gift guide, your shopping list just got shorter!

Now that you know what to buy for everyone on your list, it’s time to get out there and ensure this holiday season is one to remember! For more exciting inspiration from the east coast, be sure to visit Explore the Maritimes.