It can be a daunting task to find the perfect holiday gift for a friend, family member, or loved one. That’s why we wanted to simplify your holiday shopping by encouraging you to give the gift of Kalamazoo this holiday season! Whether it is freshly baked croissants from a bakery, a handmade ceramic mug made by a local artist, or a specialty made glass vase made by you, Kalamazoo is the perfect place to do your holiday shopping this season.
Shop Local
Kalamazoo County is home to a variety of specialty stores owned and operated by local families and community members. These stores and boutiques have everything from one-of-a-kind clothing items to local artists’ own creations ranging from ceramic mugs to gorgeous paintings.
The Kalamazoo Mall is home to dozens of businesses carrying unique, artisan products that are perfect for giving to your loved ones this holiday season. Whether it’s a hand-painted wineglass from Colors and Cocktails, a candle from Kalamazoo Candle Company, a specialty perfume from The Aroma Labs, or beautiful pottery and trinkets from Earthly Delights at Amy Zane, you are bound to find the perfect gift that your loved ones will cherish.
Attending a holiday party or dinner? Kalamazoo’s bakeries offer everything from Challah bread to decadent croissants that make for a lovely addition to any gathering. Sarkozy Bakery, The Victorian Bakery, and Mackenzie’s Bakery are just a few of the wonderful bakeries in the county. You’ll want to place your order early in the season or swing by the storefronts to see what is available! If you are looking for a special treat for those with a sweet tooth, Confections with Convictions, LLC and Cherri's Chocol'Art offer dynamic sweets with decadent flavor profiles.
Give the Gift of a Local Experience
Gifts don’t always have to be something you can hold! Experiences make fond memories that you can look back on and enjoy through the years. There’s nothing like meeting real reindeer at Reindeer Ranch or driving through the lights and seeing the dazzling tree displays during the Winter Wonderland Holiday Experience at the Gilmore Car Museum. Gull Meadow Farms creates a magical atmosphere with their Walk through the Lights Holiday Display. Don’t forget to walk down Candy Cane Lane in Bronson Park and take the Holly Jolly Trolley around Downtown Kalamazoo!
The best part is that experiences don’t have to be seasonal. The Air Zoo is a great experience for all ages, especially those who are interested in seeing aircrafts and spacecrafts up close. The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts is a pristine artistic space in the heart of Downtown Kalamazoo, perfect for those who love to admire art pieces. The W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary and the Kalamazoo Nature Center offer gorgeous hiking trails year-round. And we cannot forget the fine arts scene! Between the New Vic Theatre, the Miller Auditorium, the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre, and so many more, you are bound to be entertained with a brilliant show at any one of our fine arts venues.
Experience Handcrafted Culture
If you are interested in adding your own personal touch, why not craft your very own creation? Kalamazoo County is home to a diverse array of hands-on experiences and activities. Forge your own piece of metal art during a class at Combat Ready Art or Butter Hog Forge, LLC. Plant and bring life to your very own terrarium at the Mason Jar Plant Shop. Attend a cocktail making class at Green Door Distilling or make your very own scent at the Aroma Labs. Learn the art of book binding or paper making at the Kalamazoo Book Arts Center, or make your very own glass creation at Glass Art Kalamazoo.
The handcrafted culture of Kalamazoo guarantees a rich experience in each class and activity. In addition to the wonderful experience you will receive, you will also go home with a beautiful piece that is personal to you. The best part is these classes are offered year-round! So, you can always try out each class or activity that fits your interest.
Discover Kalamazoo!
Whether you are looking to give a unique creation by a local artist or an unforgettable experience, Kalamazoo County is the perfect place for you to find the best gifts for your friends and family this holiday season. While you shop, don’t forget to stop at a local restaurant and enjoy the beauty of the holiday season in Kalamazoo, MI. Before your trip, make sure to download our app so you have all you need to know right at your fingertips. Check out our events calendar to see all the holiday cheer and more happening around the county!
