By Kezia Royer-Burkett, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The holiday season is fast approaching, and if you’re looking for unique, thoughtful gifts for everyone in your life, Burlington has no shortage of great local options. Whether you’re shopping for a young child, a trendy teen, or someone who loves custom gifts, local businesses have got you covered. Here’s a roundup of some of the best gifts available this year, all from locally-owned Halton-based businesses.
At JR Toy Company Canada, located at 4265 Fairview Street, Unit 2, shoppers can find a wide selection of toys and games perfect for kids of all ages. They are open Monday to Saturday, and you can check their website for updated holiday hours. This year, the store has an exciting lineup of gift options that will bring joy to any child. From the latest LEGO sets to the beloved Calico Critters Red Roof Grand Mansion Set, these toys will spark imagination and creativity. Fans of Disney will love the Tonies Disney Mickey and Friends Starter Set, while young builders will be thrilled with the Magna Tiles Castle Deluxe Set. For those with an interest in space and science, the LEGO Star Wars Dark Falcon set would make a perfect gift. JR Toy Company is also offering up to 80% off site-wide during their Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, making it an ideal time to shop.
For educational and creative gifts, Learning Tree Educational Store Inc. (1450 Headon Rd.) is the place to be. Their selection of STEAM kits, science kits, craft materials, and family games is perfect for families looking to spend quality time together. Their cooperative games are a highlight, encouraging teamwork and fun for all ages. Plus, the store offers expert advice from Ontario-certified teachers, so you can rest assured you’re choosing the best items for the kids on your list. During Black Friday, they’ll have a storewide sale (excluding classes and gift cards), and on the weekend of December 14–15, the “Stuff a Stocking Event” will let you fill a stocking bag with as many items as you can for 20% off. To stay updated on their sales and deals be sure to subscribe to their mailing list.
(Left) ELF HQ ($15.99); (right) Mega Cyborg Hand ($64.99).
Board games from Learning Tree in main photo range from $14.99-$139.99.
At Kiehl’s (Since 1851), located at Mapleview Shopping Centre on 900 Maple Avenue, shoppers can discover premium skincare gifts perfect for anyone on their holiday list. Renowned for its high-quality, nature-inspired formulas, Kiehl’s offers customizable gift sets, making it simple to create a personalized bundle that suits every recipient. This season, the brand is adding a festive touch with free gift wrapping, complete with elegant boxes, pouches, and ribbons. For eco-conscious shoppers, Kiehl’s commitment to sustainability shines through with post-consumer recycled packaging and a partnership with Covanta for container recycling.
(Left) Ultra Facial Cream with 4.5% squalane ($85.00); in main photo, Ultimate Strength Hand Salve ($42.00)
To make the most of your holiday shopping, consider joining the My Kiehl’s Rewards program for exclusive discounts and early sale access. The store will also have extended hours during Black Friday, giving you ample time to find thoughtful gifts. Adding to the excitement, Kiehl’s will feature SwtSol (pronounced “Sweet Soul”) as a local business pop-up on Black Friday, November 29, 2024. This special collaboration offers a unique opportunity to grab a customizable skincare gift set alongside SwtSol’s trendy custom hoodies — all in one spot, for one day only.
If you’re searching for a fashion-forward gift, Swtsol, a 90s-inspired streetwear brand, has just the thing. Their signature Nursing Hoodie is perfect for new mothers who want to nurse discreetly while still looking stylish. It allows the wearer to nurse their baby without exposing their stomach or covering the baby’s head with a blanket. The Signature OG Hoodie ($135) in all black is a versatile, trendy gift that pairs well with any outfit. For something truly unique, you can also customize a hoodie to match the recipient’s personal style. Swtsol upcycles pre-loved jeans into one-of-a-kind hoodies, so you’re also giving a gift with eco-conscious roots. Keep an eye out for 10% off purchases made at their Kiehl’s pop-up at Mapleview Mall during Black Friday.
(Left) Swtsol’s Nursing Hoodie has zippers for nursing ($165.00),
the perfect gift for new and not-so-new nursing mothers;
(right) a custom hoodie is always a great gift idea,
as you can tailor the hoodie to someone’s personal style.
For a gift that supports a healthier lifestyle, Vintage Iron E-Cycles and Spartan Fitness Express, located at 2388 Fairview St, offers an excellent selection of e-bikes. Their RADSTER Road bike, with its UL-certified electrical system and rear-facing turn signals, makes a great gift for anyone looking to stay active while reducing their carbon footprint. You can also take advantage of their current promotion, offering a free battery with the purchase of select RAD Power Bikes (a $799 value). For those interested in e-scooters, they have savings of up to $1,000 on select Synergy E-Bikes and E-Scooters. These gifts are perfect for families, teens, or seniors who want to enjoy the outdoors with a convenient, eco-friendly mode of transportation (e-bikes range in price from $1,599.99 to $4,200.00).
Looking for unique, high-quality Canadian-made pieces? Visit 390 Pearl Street (entrance on Pine) for a one-of-a-kind sample and no-label sale, the Made-in-Canada: No Label Event. From cozy loungewear and accessories to hats, toques, scarves, outerwear, and even select vintage surprises, this sale offers something for everyone in sizes ranging from XS to Plus. With prices starting at just $10 and going up to $175 (plus tax), these no-label garments reflect incredible value while supplies last. The sale kicks off on Thursday, December 5, and runs until Saturday, December 7, ending promptly at 2 p.m. Don’t miss out — grab these exclusive deals before they’re gone!
Finally, Chester’s Custom Creations brings a personal touch with handcrafted wooden gifts. Their holiday collection includes beautiful Christmas tree collars, stovetop noodle boards, ottoman trays, and Christmas stocking holders. Using locally-sourced and recycled materials, Chester’s adds an eco-conscious element to their stunning pieces. These items are available online, on Instagram and Facebook (@ChestersCustomCreations), making browsing their offerings easy for holiday shoppers.
(Left) stocking holders ($75), and
(right) Christmas tree collars ($100)
from Chester’s Custom Creations.
Chester’s noodle/stovetop boards
($100) are in the main photo.
With so many unique options, Burlington’s local businesses make finding the perfect holiday gift both enjoyable and meaningful. From imaginative toys to handcrafted treasures, there’s no shortage of ways to support the community while checking off your holiday shopping list. Be sure to take advantage of Black Friday sales and promotions, and shop early to avoid the holiday rush. This year, give the gift of local.
