While gift-giving is closely associated with the holiday season, it doesn’t have to overshadow it. If you often feel stressed and overwhelmed during the holidays, consider shifting the focus from gifting material items to experiences instead. This way, you promote connection and create meaningful memories – especially if you join in on the fun.
There are so many great reasons to shop local this holiday season. Supporting small businesses not only benefits your community but also offers more thoughtful, unique, and personal gifts than bigger companies. From art and fitness to food and adventure, here are 24 unique gift ideas that guarantee memorable experiences for everyone on your list.
Art Classes
1. The Pottery
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For folks interested in ceramics, The Pottery in Creston offers classes and workshops for people of all ages and abilities. Their welcoming environment is perfect for beginners and seasoned experts looking to learn more.
- Website
- Address: 1017A Canyon Street, Creston
2. Stairway Studio
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Stairway Studio’s one-day workshops make great gifts, providing participants with hands-on silversmithing experience and the chance to create and keep their own piece of handmade jewellery.
- Website
- Address: #13 – 560 Johnson Street, Victoria
3. Baaad Rabbit Fibre Arts
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Do you know someone interested in fiber arts? Located in New Westminster, Baaad Rabbit Fibre Arts offers affordable classes and workshops in crochet, embroidery, and knitting, perfect for any skill level.
- Website
- Address: 804 Twentieth Street, New Westminster
4. Rain or Shine Art Studio
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Some of us don’t get enough opportunities to be creative and make a “mess.” With classes for all ages, attendees get the opportunity to explore different art mediums, make friends, and have fun.
- Website
- Address: 425 3 Avenue West, Prince Rupert
5. Mechanics of Music
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With online and in-person music lessons, workshops, and camps, gift your favourite music lover the chance to learn a new instrument or tune up their skills at Mechanics of Music.
- Website
- Address: 208 Osborne Avenue, New Westminster
6. Threadora Gowns
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Threadora Gowns’ online sewing courses are great for anyone interested in fashion and dressmaking. With lessons available for every skill level, participants can learn at their own pace and have support available at every step of the way.
Fitness Classes
7. Glacier Gymnastics
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Gymnastics may seem daunting, but it’s not all about flips and tumbles. At Glacier Gymnastics, you’ll find a range of programs for all ages that make gymnastics accessible and fun.
- Website
- Address: 719 Vernon Street, Nelson
8. The Cube Climbing Centre
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Based in Nelson, The Cube Climbing Centre is a fun and welcoming spot, offering bouldering, top-rope, and lead-climbing lessons for all ages.
- Website
- Address: 820 Tenth Street, Nelson
9. Yoga by the Sea
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When life gets stressful, check out Yoga by the Sea. They offer classes including yoga, meditation, pilates, and more, helping participants relax and get a good workout.
- Website
- Address: 1055 Roberts Creek Road, Roberts Creek
10. The Ballet Lounge
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Dancing is one of the most fun ways to get exercise. At The Ballet Lounge in Vancouver, find supportive ballet and dance classes for every skill level.
- Website
- Address: 1340 Granville Street, Vancouver
11. Impact Krav Maga & Fitness
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Looking for a good workout? Impact Krav Maga and Fitness offers courses on self-defense, kickboxing, and Jiu-Jitsu to help participants gain strength and confidence.
- Website
- Address: 1805 West Broadway, Vancouver
12. Autonomy Fitness
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Autonomy Fitness offers online personal training aimed at making individuals feel empowered, strong, and confident in their bodies. It’s welcoming and inclusive to everyone, regardless of gender, body type, income, ability, race, background, or sexuality, ensuring a supportive space for all.
Food & Drink
12. A Taste of Victoria Food Tours
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A Taste of Victoria Food Tours is a great gift for any foodie, where they have the chance to explore the city’s delicious restaurants and delve deeper into its history.
13. Sip Happens
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Enjoy beautiful scenery and delicious wine with a Sip Happens wine tour. With a range of offerings all over the province, it’s a great way to make lasting memories with your loved ones.
14. Kuzina Messer Culinaire
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Based in Kamloops, Kuzina Messer Culinaire offers cooking classes led by a certified Red Seal Chef. With programs for adults and kids, attendees can explore their culinary passion and learn new techniques.
15. Historical Chinatown Tour
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Learn how to make authentic Chinese dumplings, explore Chinatown in Vancouver, or go on a food tour with Historical Chinatown Tours. Their slate of activities immerses attendees in the vibrant culture, history, and flavours of this iconic neighbourhood.
- Website
- Address: 227 Keefer Street, Vancouver
16. Fine Art Bartending
With introductory bartending classes, wine-tasting seminars, and more, Fine Art Bartending gives participants the chance to learn something new and connect with others.
- Website
- Address: 432 West Pender Street, Vancouver
Tourism
17. Ecotours-BC
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Explore the beautiful Cariboo Mountains with Ecotours-BC. Their family-friendly wildlife and nature adventures are a great way to connect with nature and make memories with loved ones.
18. Alpine Rafting
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Whether you seek the thrill of whitewater rafting or prefer a relaxing family kayaking trip, Alpine Rafting offers unforgettable adventures on the stunning Kicking Horse River.
- Website
- Address: 1509c Lafontaine Road, Golden
19. Wild Waterways Adventures (WWA)
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Observe wildlife in the tidal rapids of the Coast Mountains, immerse yourself in the Coastal Rainforest, and learn more about our beautiful province with Wild Waterways Adventures.
21. Reel Adventures Fishing Charters
With year-round fishing opportunities, join Reel Adventures Fishing Charters for guided fishing tours in the West Kootenays or Ucluelet.
Beauty and Wellness
22. Fainting Couch Spa
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We all deserve time to relax. Fainting Couch Spa’s serene environment and wide range of services, including manicures, massages, facials, and more, make it the perfect gift for anyone in need of some pampering.
- Website
- Address: 129-287 Gower Point Road, Gibsons
23. Kriya Beauty
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A gift certificate for Kriya Beauty’s lash and brow services could be the perfect gift for someone looking to enjoy a little self-care.
- Website
- Address: 1797 Comox Avenue, Comox
24. IHANA Coastal Massage
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IHANA Coastal Massage is a mobile massage service to help relieve the stress and tension of everyday life. Available throughout the Sunshine Coast, enjoy a relaxing massage from the comforts of your own home.
Holiday Preparedness
Take steps to ensure your small business is ready for the busy holiday season by checking out our page, Preparing Your Business for the Holidays.
We have many more gift guides available so you can continue to support BC small businesses and find the perfect gift for your loved ones. Discover our gift guides for pet lovers, active folks, foodies, and more.
Small Business BC is Here to Help
SBBC is a non-profit resource centre for BC-based small businesses. Whatever your idea of success is, we’re here to provide holistic support and resources at every step of the journey. Check out our range of business webinars, on-demand E-Learning Education, our Talk to an Expert Advisories, or browse our business articles.