Nanaimo is home to many amazing independent businesses, artisans, makers, creators and everything in between! With eclectic shops, unique experiences, and handcrafted treasures, finding the ultimate gifts for everyone on your list has never been easier. Why not show some love and shop local this holiday season?
To make your shopping a breeze, we’ve put together a gift guide to help you share a piece of Nanaimo with friends, family, and loved ones—whether they’re across the street or across the country. From one-of-a-kind local experiences and fine dining to handcrafted goods and treats, our list has something for everyone!
Shopping from across the country? Not a problem! Many of our local shops are happy to arrange shipping, even if they don’t have an online store!
Although we can’t list every store or artisan in our guide, this guide is a great resource to kick-start your holiday shopping and uncover what makes our community so special.
Looking for Gifts to Indulge? Here are our Top Edible Gift Choices
For those who love indulging, Nanaimo has a delicious variety of locally crafted treats and beverages that make the greatest gifts:
- Kinsu Chocolates
- A fresh new edition to Nanaimo, Kinsu’s handmade, artisanal chocolates are impossible to resist! Perfect for someone with a sweet tooth!
- Bohdi’s Bakery
- Freshly baked pastries and bread for any breakfast and sweet treat lover!
- Arbutus Distillery
- Award-winning local spirits for the aspiring mixologist on your list!
- Longwood Brewery & Brew Pub
- Whether you’re looking for a local beer or a tasty restaurant experience, Longwood Brewery & Brew Pub has you covered on all fronts!
- Wolf Brewing
- European-inspired beers made for the craft beer connoisseur.
- White Sails
- Local, island-inspired beverages to share with those wanting a taste of the coast.
- Millstone Estate Winery
- A glass of Nanaimo’s finest wine for a refined taste.
- Big Bang Cider
- Another new addition to Nanaimo, Big Bang’s ciders are a must-try.
- Nanaimo Bars!
- We can’t forget about the renowned Nanaimo Bar! Whether you’re looking for edible options or something a little more unique, the Nanaimo Bar Trail will help you find the best gift.
- Online purchases and out-of-province shipping available for select shops!
- We can’t forget about the renowned Nanaimo Bar! Whether you’re looking for edible options or something a little more unique, the Nanaimo Bar Trail will help you find the best gift.
Arts and Culture-Themed Gifts
Nanaimo’s arts and culture scene is buzzing with creativity, making it the go-to spot for those seeking one-of-a-kind gifts and unforgettable experiences. From stunning local artwork to quirky crafts that scream “Nanaimo,” you’ll find treasures that perfectly capture the heart of this vibrant city. So, hit up our galleries or treat someone special to a show that’ll knock their socks off. Nanaimo’s got the goods that truly embody what makes this place so unique.
- Ay Lelum
- A stunning blend of Traditional Coast Salish art and modern design, Ay Lelum creates wearable art garments that celebrate diversity and craftsmanship.
- Online purchases and out-of-province shipping available!
- A stunning blend of Traditional Coast Salish art and modern design, Ay Lelum creates wearable art garments that celebrate diversity and craftsmanship.
- Port Theatre
- From lively performances to festive plays, this is the go-to spot for theatre lovers!
- Nanaimo Theatre Group
- Immerse yourself in top-notch, exciting theatrical productions that always impress!
- Nanaimo Art Gallery
- Offering locally crafted gifts and engaging studio courses, Nanaimo Art Gallery has gifts for all art enthusiasts.
- Nanaimo Ceramic Arts
- Book a class and create your own, one-of-a-kind handmade gift!
- Head to Gabriola Island to visit some of the Island’s Renowned Local Artisan Studios!
- Online purchases and out-of-province shipping available for select shops!
Adventurer Gifts
Whether the adventurer on your list is after an adrenaline rush or exploring a new hobby, Nanaimo offers an abundance of exciting options! From outdoor adventures and unique experiences to hobbyist spots and gear shops, there’s no shortage of ways to get inspired and stay active. Check out these top adventure picks for the gift that will thrill anyone ready to embrace the great outdoors this season!
- Rock City Cycles
- We guarantee Vancouver Island’s premier bike shop has the perfect gift, whether you’re just getting into biking or you’re a seasoned pro!
- Online purchases and out-of-province shipping available!
- We guarantee Vancouver Island’s premier bike shop has the perfect gift, whether you’re just getting into biking or you’re a seasoned pro!
- Primary Skateboards
- One of Nanaimo’s independent skateboard shops, Primary Skateboards offers a range of skateboards, accessories, and more. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned skater, they have all the gear to keep you rolling.
- Online purchases and out-of-province shipping available!
- One of Nanaimo’s independent skateboard shops, Primary Skateboards offers a range of skateboards, accessories, and more. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned skater, they have all the gear to keep you rolling.
- Alternative Groove
- A great pick for the outdoor enthusiast, Alternative Groove has everything they’ll need to level up their adventure game.
- Online purchases and out-of-province shipping available!
- A great pick for the outdoor enthusiast, Alternative Groove has everything they’ll need to level up their adventure game.
- Island Time Axe Throwing
- For anyone ready to test their aim and have some friendly competition, this unique gift will have them hitting bullseyes in no time.
- WildPlay Nanaimo
- Looking for a unique experience to gift a thrill seeker? Look no further.
- Vancouver Island Whale Watch
- Got a wildlife lover on your shopping list? Treat them to an adventurous and immersive wildlife-watching experience!
Locally Crafted Goods
Nanaimo is bursting with creativity! Local artists are all around, making it easy to find handcrafted, one-of-a-kind goods at every turn. From artisan shops to galleries and seasonal markets, there’s no shortage of places to pick up something special that captures the spirit and talent of our community.
- Strong Nations
- Offering the best selection of Indigenous books and gifts, this shop is great for the reader on your list!
- Online purchases and out-of-province shipping available!
- Offering the best selection of Indigenous books and gifts, this shop is great for the reader on your list!
- Cultured Coast
- Aromatherapy, clothing, jewellery, home goods, stickers, and the best part? It’s all locally crafted!
- Online purchases and out-of-province shipping available!
- Aromatherapy, clothing, jewellery, home goods, stickers, and the best part? It’s all locally crafted!
- Artzi Stuff
- A collection of witty, colourful and locally-made gifts for those wanting something that screams Nanaimo!
- Online purchases and out-of-province shipping available!
- A collection of witty, colourful and locally-made gifts for those wanting something that screams Nanaimo!
- Island-ish
- From artisanal products to indulgent island-inspired goodies, it’s the spot for finding gifts with that true Nanaimo flair.
- Online purchases and out-of-province shipping available!
- From artisanal products to indulgent island-inspired goodies, it’s the spot for finding gifts with that true Nanaimo flair.
- Artisans’ Studio
- An artist-run cooperative with 50 talented members, this spot is perfect for art lovers!
- Island Roots Farmers’ Market
- Nanaimo’s year-round market is a treasure trove for unique finds, offering one-of-a-kind gifts from talented vendors across the city!
- Nanaimo’s Holiday Markets
- Nanaimo’s holiday markets are great for tracking down winter-themed gifts and seasonal treats!
Despite our best efforts, we can’t list every Nanaimo store or artisan. This guide is your invitation to shop local and discover what makes Nanaimo’s community so special. Explore the creativity of our local artisans, dive into unique shopping experiences, and get a head start on your holiday shopping. From handmade goods to one-of-a-kind finds, Nanaimo’s charm is waiting to be uncovered. Happy exploring!
To learn more about shopping in Nanaimo, check out our latest blogs.
