Commercial Drive merchants offer over 300 ways to gift local this year

As the holiday season nears, we’re looking for gifts that will put a smile on the faces of our loved ones after a challenging year.

But instead of choosing cookie-cutter presents that anyone can find online, we’re opting for unique, memorable gifts that allow us to simultaneously support local businesses, jobs, and the wider community when it matters most.

Commercial Drive, for example, has one of Vancouver’s most vibrant shopping and dining districts, covering 22 blocks and boasting the city’s own Little Italy. Earlier this year, Lonely Planet even named the culturally rich area one of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods.

Now to celebrate the festive season, stores along Commercial Drive have launched a Christmas Guide packed with local gifts.

Commercial Drive Business Society/Alfonso Arnold

There are over 300 distinct merchants located on Commercial Drive, which means you’ve got plenty to choose from when it comes to selecting gifts for everyone on your list — and finding something for yourself, too.

From quaint boutiques and restaurants, to theatres to coffee shops, and specialty food stores and bakeries, Commercial Drive offers options for shopping that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

Although you might not be able to meet your best friend for dinner on Commercial Drive right now, the Christmas Guide is filled with gift-giving inspiration to make up for any lost time. You could order a holiday gift box filled with locally-made treats or a gift card for their go-to restaurant.

Another idea for the foodie in your life is to arrange a virtual dinner and order takeout to their door. Whether they’re a BBQ enthusiast, a fan of Mexican food, or passionate about tasty Italian eats in general, you’ll find the merchant to match on Commercial Drive.

Commercial Drive Business Society/Alfonso Arnold

These days, we’re all spending more time at home than ever before. But that doesn’t mean we should sacrifice on style. If there’s someone on your gift list who would appreciate a new addition to their wardrobe, Commercial Drive merchants have the solution.

Browse through everyday staples and accessories for men and women, find a sparkling statement piece to wear during the holidays, or choose a pre-loved garment that tells a story from a vintage store.

You could gift items to enhance a friend’s space, like a fragrant home mist, scented candles, or ceramics they’ll use all the time. (Reusable totes for grocery store runs are also a good idea!)

Commercial Drive Business Society/Alfonso Arnold

Since there has never been a better time to schedule self-care, gifting yourself or someone on your list (or even both of you) a virtual yoga class is a thoughtful gesture that goes a long way.

That’s the thing about shopping at the locally-owned and independent merchants on Commercial Drive; there’s literally something to suit everyone — no matter what your preference. Plus, it’s easy to focus your time on making memories when you have a digital Christmas Guide at your fingertips.

To see the full list of Commercial Drive vendors you can support in-store or online this holiday season, head to thedrive.ca.