Malls make the naughty list—here’s where to go instead
At Granville Island, we make holiday dreams a reality. And although we can’t guarantee any Santa sightings, we bring a more peaceful, authentic holiday experience like no mall can.
We made a list of all of the season’s necessities: one-of-a-kind gifts, festive music, holiday cheer—and we’ve got it all. We even checked our list twice. On Granville Island, you’ll find a safe haven from all of the holiday madness. You know what we mean, where holiday cheer turns into holiday fear. And then you’re left at the mall feeling as fragile as a gingerbread person.
Here, the holidays are magical. As soon as you step onto the island, you feel as though you’ve been transported to the North Pole. Artists’ studios begin to look like Santa’s workshop, full of presents to give to loved ones. Festive music rings through the air. This is what the season is about: fun and cheer.
Your day starts with a hot cocoa or cider from the Granville Island Tea Company. Let your drink warm you up as you wander along the water and take in the festive atmosphere. As you walk, you’ll come across a number of shops and studios that house the perfect locally made one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list.
Pop into Daniel Materna Ceramics for colourful hand-painted ceramic lamps, plates, and sculptures. Or take a peek at Kingsmill Pottery Studio—a working studio and exhibition space featuring works by local potters. Many of the artist’s studios are attached to their workshops, so you might even catch them in the process of making one of their original pieces. For fun local gifts, make is the spot. Here you’ll find novelty items and clothing, and you can even make your own designs to have printed, embroidered, or laser engraved on the item of your choice.
Next, make your way over to Circle Craft Co-op’s The Gallery Store in the Net Loft for original artwork including wood, glass, and jewelry from 130 local and international artists. In the Net Loft, you’ll also come across Gigi B—a shop brimming with quality goods. You’ll find everything from premium skincare and perfumes to raincoats and runners for the outdoor adventurers on your list. And don’t forget to pop into a stationery lovers’ paradise: Paper-Ya. The store is full of unique notebooks, pens, and hand-made paper that’s imported from around the world.
With endless gift options, live music, and holiday cheer all around, Granville Island is your one-stop shop for making the most wonderful time of the year even more wonderful. We’ll see you soon.
Visit granvilleisland.com to plan your visit today.
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