WARNING: If you’re looking for cheesy knickknacks or plastic, off-the-shelf toys for your gift-giving essentials, then turn back now. Seriously. We’re not kidding.
Here in Cleveland, we’re a town of makers and shakers who prefer indie craft shows and art walks to the long lines (and bumps and bruises) of Black Friday at big box retailers. Dazzle your friends and family with gifts from these holiday shopping standouts.
Crocker Park gets in on the holiday action with shopping and activities for all ages. Hop on Santa’s sleigh for a picture with the big man himself, before picking up some treasures from the Christmas Towne holiday decor and gift shop. Don’t leave without checking out — and snapping a selfie — in front of the 50-foot Christmas Tree. C’mon, do it for the gram.
Bundle up for a weekend exploring Little Italy's art scene and supporting small business. Pick out the perfect poinsettia at Urban Orchid and sample the port at Little Italy Wines. Shop — and eat — your way down Murray Hill, with the galleries, boutiques and restaurants all decked out for the holidays.
The tree-lighting and winter fireworks get all the love, but this annual event is also a wonderful chance to do a little shopping. Check out Lakewood’s best shops, but not before dropping by the Roundstone beer garden. Shop the outdoor vendor village while grooving to the sounds of live music and DJs, then be sure to catch the Holiday Parade.
Queer the Halls is back and better than ever. This annual event at the LGBT Community Center is even expanding to Near West Theater to accomodate growing demand. It's a day of holiday fun, shopping, queer joy and community connection. When you’re done, grab dinner and drinks at one of the amazing neighborhood restaurants, then warm up with a movie at the historic Capitol Theatre to cap off your night.
Deck the halls Old World-style. Experience traditional food, drink, and seasonal items from open-air booths featuring local artists and crafters to delicious German-inspired food. Viva Bavaria brings this popular German holiday experience to you right here in Northeast Ohio.
It might be cold out, but Tremont is just heating up. The monthly walkabout moves inside for the holidays, but still offers the same shopping, gallery openings, live music and food/drink specials as always. Scope the neighborhood’s best art while sampling some holiday-themed specials.
The Lake Erie Building, better known to locals as the “Screw Factory”, houses some of our city’s top artists. For one weekend, this unique industrial space throws open its doors for an expanded open-studio holiday shopping experience. With nearly one hundred artists often participating in past years, there will seriously be something for everyone.
Northeast Ohio’s longest-running indie craft show has been delighting customers for 20 years. At 78th Street Studios, count on one-stop shopping for local loot that runs the gamut from jewelry to confections. Kick your gift giving up a notch and support local makers all at the same time.
'Tis the Season for More
If you’re a pro-level procrastinator or have high gift-giving standards, don’t stress — The Land’s got you covered with even more holiday shopping events: