2025 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE: WHERE TO GO LOCAL GIFT SHOPPING IN THE BoQ
Every holiday season, I find myself drawn back to the same thought: the most meaningful gifts often come from the people and places we live beside.
In the Bay of Quinte region, I love how each independent shop carries more than just merchandise. It carries story, character, and community.
Here are some of my favourite stops this year and what they’ve got in store. Shops where I’ve walked in, felt welcomed, browsed around, and walked out with something unexpected.
From a quick morning stop to a full weekend loop, the goal is the same: good finds, honest places, local spirit.
Written by Cheyanne O’Driscoll of Hello Quinte West
Read time: 3 min
BRIGHTON
Lighthouse Books — Independent bookstore charm plus signed editions of Canadian titles like Margaret Atwood’s new memoir, and a warm atmosphere you don’t always get from online shopping.
Cheer Farms — Local preserves, honey and farm-market style gift items: ideal for someone who loves taste and place.
QUINTE WEST
Wish Home Interiors — Holiday accents, candles and blankets: pieces that help turn a house into a cozy, festive home.
J&B Books — A shop for book lovers and gamers alike: curated books, tabletop games and themed lifestyle items.
Trenton Deli & Bakery — European-style chocolates (hello, chocolate letters), imported treats and small-batch goods for the food lover.
Larocque Boutique — Designer canes, tumblers and handmade Newfoundland-inspired décor: unexpected finds with a story.
BELLEVILLE
Doki Doki — For the pop-culture fan: anime toys, collectibles and imported snacks that feel fun and unlike anything at a big box store.
The Empire Theatre — A gift of experience: tickets to a live show or film, something to mark the season beyond “another object.”
K’Boodle — tucked into a corner of the Quinte Mall, carrying stickers, locally-made ceramics, pet treats and bandanas. Great for smaller gifts or stocking surprises.
Tinkered Decor and More — Handmade, vintage and up-cycled home décor with character; for someone who values the unique.
Happy Buddha — Crystals, jewellery and aromatherapy items. Gifts with a sense of calm and intention.
Lafferty’s Menwear— Quality men’s wear, socks and accessories: for the stylish or practical guy you’re shopping for.
Tyrannosaurus Pets — Toys, treats and accessories for the four-legged family members.
KENHTÈ:KE (TYENDINAGA MOHAWK TERRITORY)
Rebecca Maracle Mohawk Feathersmith — Wearable art in feather and leather, celebrating Indigenous craftsmanship and cultural stories.
Kebaonish — Premium tea, coffee and curated gift boxes—perfect for moments of pause and appreciation. Headquartered in Kenhtè:ke, their products are currently available to order online only.
GREATER NAPANEE
Black Barn Co. — Modern jewellery, stoneware and carefully assembled gift sets—clean, simple, thoughtful.
Taken Back Retro — Retro video games, Pokémon and trading cards: nostalgia and fun for the kid-at-heart.
Every stop on this list reminds me of what matters: connection, place, memory. When you choose a local business for a gift, you’re making a meaningful choice in favour of community. Buying from local shops keeps more than dollars here; it keeps connection, story, and belonging.
Find more local businesses on the Bay of Quinte Digital Discovery Map!
