PEAK TO PEAK - The idea of holiday shopping can be a stressful thing to some, but living in the mountains, I find it quite delightful! I’ve not once had to go down into the hustle and bustle of the flats to find a gift. The most unique and special gifts I’ve given have been found right up here in these beautiful mountain communities!
For starters, there are several big holiday markets happening within the next few weeks, full of creative gift ideas. This Saturday the Nederland Community Center hosts the annual Holiday Market, with over 50 vendors showing and selling local arts, crafts, and artisan foods. It always warms my heart to purchase holiday gifts from familiar faces.
My parents owned a small business when I was growing up, and I know how much good holiday season sales can change the lives of a family! I’d much rather support people I know, or really any small business in general, than some large corporation down the hill.
Aside from the market, I have always enjoyed making the rounds in Nederland for gift shopping. You can find anything from beautiful minerals and gems at Nature’s Own, to Nederland-branded clothing at Rustic Moose and Mountain Goat Tees (great for out of town folks!) and some seriously delicious treats from New Moon and Sweet Sue’s. There is something for everyone.
Rollinsville has become another sure stop for my holiday gift buying! From the beautiful jewelry, handmade hats and carefully selected artisan crafts at Dusty Roads Mountain Boutique, to the absolutely delicious Lavender Gin and spirits at Gold Dirt Distillery, you are certain to find a fine gift for your refined mountain hippie mama or papa. That also leaves an excuse to stop for a hot and delectable Toss Pizza or a mouth-watering shrimp po boy from Back on the Train.
Another really fun market coming up would be the gift bazaar at Central City's 26th annual Tommyknocker Holidays celebration this weekend! Make sure to check out their full weekend of events in this week’s Cracker Barrel in The Mountain-Ear. Nothing quite gets me in the spirit of holiday shopping like Christmas Tree lighting and carols!
I love seeing Central City in Christmas lights. I find it quite magical. I recently found Hearts & Legends and I adore it! The perfect place to find a gift for your cowboy or cowgirl.
If you can’t make these events this weekend, Gilpin County is hosting a Winter Arts Festival at the Community Center next Saturday and Sunday, December 14 and 15. Even if you can make the markets this weekend, it would still be worth checking out! There are so many insanely talented and creative people who want to show you their art and sell you gifts for your family and friends!
There’s such value in receiving a gift that was made by hand. Seeing the craftsmanship and feeling the love that went into what was made makes a gift so memorable and special, no matter how big or small.
If you’re staying more to the north, the Old Gallery in Allenspark is hosting a Holiday Shoppe every Saturday and Sunday through December 22 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.! Find small handmade trinkets or big and beautifully detailed works of art everywhere you look. Traveling through the pines, seeing snow on the mountains and small cabins with smoke coming from their chimneys, makes for such a stress-free holiday shopping experience. Worth it even just for window shopping.
Some people don’t want a physical gift. I myself love the gift of experiences! If you are shopping for people who prefer experience over things, I’d suggest a night out to Gold Hill Inn or Morroco’s before they close for the season.
Check out the schedule to the Caribou Room and buy someone a pair of tickets to a show! They now have reserved seating including VIP tables with a great view and nice perks, too. Or maybe a soak at the Indian Hot Springs Resort in Idaho Springs….
There is no shortage of ways to give the gift of local here in these mountains! Holiday shopping shouldn’t be a stressful, daunting experience. Stay in the mountains and keep it in the community. Check off your list with a smile on your face and warmth in your heart, knowing that you’re supporting the people around you. That, in itself, is a gift.
Happy Holiday shopping, everyone!
