Yes, the holidays are upon us. No, it’s not too late to find a present for — checks list — oh, that is a lot of people. Nevertheless, with Christmas five days away + Kwanzaa starting on Dec. 26, there’s no need to panic — here’s our curated list of 15 quali-tree Portland holiday gift ideas.
If you’re shopping for …
The music maven who will sell out Revolution Hall one day:
Treat them to a holiday album from Jackpot Records or their instrument of choice from Trade Up Music.
The White Elephant gift exchange — with a $25 limit:
Impress the lucky winner who ends up with your present by starting at Made In Oregon, where a diverse selection of locally-made items + helpful staff make it easy to shop.
The foodie in your life who loves trying new restaurants:
Forktown Food Tours is currently booking small group, private tours for 2-4 people. Owner Heidi Burnette has lived here since 2002 + can share stories of how the food scene has changed.
The runner always prepping for their next half marathon:
Help them push toward the finish line with everything from shoes to nutrition + recovery accessories from Foot Traffic.
The coworker who has an Instagram page for their pet:
Fetch a new collar or even a denim jacket for their furry friend at Good Dog PDX, the independently-owned pet store in the Buckman neighborhood.
The craft beer aficionado who loves a local brew:
We’re going to let the previous category mark its territory here, too; PDX Pup Passport is ideal for dog lovers who enjoy special deals and discovering 30+ breweries across Oregon.
The next-door neighbor always looking to learn something new:
Book them a workshop at Yo Soy Candle’s Candle Creation Bar, where they’ll learn the art of making eco-conscious affirmation candles from kosher soy wax with shop owner Leslie Abrams.
Give them a fragrance + memories to enjoy all next year. | Photo via @yosoycandle
The sports fans who is all about the Trail Blazers:
Lifestyle brand Trillblazin always offers fresh, Rip City-inspired clothing + accessories that will make anyone stand out during their next visit to the Moda Center. Try their online shop, or one of their local dealers to ensure your order arrives before the holidays.
The pal who always forgets about self care, but could use a break:
Sometimes we all could use a session in a sensory deprivation tank to tune out the world — book them an experience at Float On. A staycation at a local hotel also works.
The bookworm who loves reading the latest release at Powell’s Books:
This one is simple — a gift card to the largest independent new + used bookstore in the world. Or perhaps a journal, so they can start writing their own memoirs.
The friend who values an experience over material things:
Seeing our city + the beautiful Columbia River Gorge from the air is unforgettable — clear them for takeoff on an airplane tour with Envi Adventures.
Once-in-a-lifetime views await in the sky. | Photo via @enviadventures
The parents who love a good game night:
All will be on board with a copy of “Ticket to Ride,” one of Other Worlds Games & Comics best-selling games of 2021.
The kiddo in your life who happens to be the cutest nugget of all time:
Mudpuddles Toys & Books stocks plenty of science-based kits to keep your little one entertained + educated.
The fashionista up on all of the latest trends:
Animal prints or floral? Avoid the guesswork and get them a gift card to Picnic NW so they can strut into 2022 in style.
The outdoorsy type who knows all the best local hikes:
Give them the boots they’ve always dreamed of from Danner + throw in some binoculars so you don’t have to squint next time they point out a distant bald eagle. It’s right there, by the tree.
It’s a wrap:
If wrapping isn’t your forte + your presents tend to look a little something like this – you can take your purchases to Ecru Modern Stationer (518 SW Yamhill St.) to be professionally gift wrapped.
