Holiday Shopping and Festive Fun at The Van Aken District
Discover unique gifts, local shops and seasonal celebrations in Shaker Heights, including Small Business Saturday and December’s Chill & Toast festivities.
The most meaningful holiday gifts come with a story. At Van Aken District, discover one-of-a-kind finds from local boutiques and makers, enjoy festive food and drinks, and celebrate the season with experiences to share with loved ones.
This holiday season, the Shaker Heights standby brings shopping, dining and entertainment together with two celebrations supporting local businesses: Small Business Saturday on Nov. 28 and Chill & Toast throughout December.
Small Shops, Big Holiday Energy
Kick off the holiday shopping season at Van Aken District’s Small Business Saturday celebration, featuring exclusive deals, local makers, live entertainment and family-friendly activities from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. “Local businesses are so near and dear to the heart and local community of Shaker Heights, and in Shaker’s Downtown, we really want to support and emulate that,” says Van Aken District General Manager Jesse Rathner.
The festivities begin in Market Hall with a live DJ from 9 a.m. to noon, followed by seasonal sips from a hot chocolate truck. From 1 to 2:30 p.m., author Michelle Andrea Lynch hosts a reading of “Project Sleigh” and a children’s ornament workshop at Raider’s Space (advance registration encouraged). Football fans can catch the Ohio State-Michigan game at Five Iron Golf, complete with food, drinks and game-day specials.
Beyond the festivities, shopping small makes a meaningful impact. “Coming together, supporting the community and supporting locals, you’re making a direct impact on [business owners’] lives,” says Lily Schmidt, Van Aken District event planner.
While you’re there, check out Deck the Market Hall, a festive decorating competition featuring holiday displays created by Market Hall businesses. Follow Van Aken District on social media for even more seasonal fun.
Where Local Businesses and Diverse Voices Come Together
Van Aken District celebrates diversity by bringing people of all ages and backgrounds together. “The students from John Carroll University enjoy the events just as much as a family with two young kids can,” Schmidt says. “We love curating events with everyone in mind. There really is something for everyone.”
This holiday season, discover distinctive gifts at independent boutiques, sample Market Hall favorites and meet local makers while supporting Northeast Ohio’s small businesses. The District also works closely with its business owners to create meaningful shopping experiences. “We have a collaborative nature with our merchants,” Rathner says. “They’ll come to us and say what’s important to them. They want to partner with us and run specials.”
Explore local shops like LADDER, Luster, Well Stocked, SLFMKR, Double Rainbow, Arch and Oceanne for unique gifts and unexpected finds. Then, make a day of it with lunch, drinks or dinner at the District’s many restaurants, bars and Market Hall.
Celebrate the Season with Local Charm
Whether you’re searching for a memorable gift, planning a festive family outing or looking for a new place to meet friends, Van Aken District offers plenty of ways to enjoy the season. From Small Business Saturday to Chill & Toast; and with local shops, seasonal activities and dining options all within walking distance; the District turns everyday holiday errands into everlasting holiday memories.
Shop small, discover local and celebrate the season at Van Aken District.
Located at 3401 Tuttle Road, Van Aken District is accessible from downtown Cleveland via the RTA Blue Line, with free street and garage parking available