2020 is nearing the end, but that only means that the holiday season is picking up! While things might look a little different this year, that doesn't mean it will be any less special. 

Shopping local is one of the best ways to support your community, and this year it's especially important to support small businesses. Luckily, these businesses often have some of the best gifts that your family will love! 

There are some restrictions in place due to the pandemic, but luckily most businesses deliver or provide contactless pickup, which is a fantastic excuse to get out of the house if you've been working from home. 

A huge thank you to our sponsor LaValley Building Supply for this year's guide. Read on to see what your local businesses in the Upper Valley community and beyond have in store this year! 

For the Intellectual

Some gift ideas for the intellectual in your life that loves a good book. 

Norwich Bookstore

Who doesn't love cuddling up with a good book in the winter? If you find yourself in Norwich, VT this bookstore is perfect for you. Though they are only open by appointment only, they also have a robust online store. In fact, they have the perfect Holiday Book Gift Guide if you feel stumped on what to get that intellect in your life!

Left Bank Books

Left Bank Books is a used book store in Hanover that offers a wide variety of used, out-of-print, and rare books. If you need to give a historian-buff a gift, look no further -- books all about local history can be found here. 

You can find them upstairs at 9 South Main Street in Hanover, NH, but make sure to check in with their updated restrictions in place before you go. 

Still North Books & Bar

Still North is a new bookstore, bar, and café in downtown Hanover, NH, just two blocks from Dartmouth’s campus. In addition to their curated selection of books, they offer craft beer, a diverse wine list, coffee, and a menu of light bites highlighting local, seasonal ingredients where possible and made entirely in-house. Things might be more restricted at the moment, but you can find the perfect jigsaw puzzle here that won't disappoint! 

Shop their jigsaws, and extensive book collection, in person or online today.

For the Adventurer

Know someone in your life that can't get enough time outdoors? We've got some great ideas for you! 

Stateline Sports

Stateline Sports was born in 1983. Since its inception, their goal has been to offer excellent products at a reasonable price, backed up by superior customer service. Pick up any and all sports and outdoor equipment your loved one might need this holiday season.

They are open at 22 Bridge Street, West Lebanon, NH and following guidelines. Visit their website to explore their inventory and to check out their store hours and updates.

Woodstock Sports

Visit them at 30 Central St, Woodstock, VT, and see what's new online. 

Omer & Bob’s Sportshop

Based in Lebanon, NH, this shop is the perfect place to find your loved one's next bike, ski gear, or really anything they might need when it comes to sporting goods. 

You can find them at 20 Hanover St in Lebanon, NH from 9-5:30 Mon-Fri, 9-5 Saturday, and 11-4 Sunday. 

For the Foodie

We all have that foodie friend or relative that loves everything about food. Whether they are making food or eating food, we've got a few ideas. 

Main Street Kitchens

King Arthur Baking Company

Visit them online to learn more or give them a call at (855) 371-2253.

My Brigadiero

For the Fashionista

Know someone that loves clothes? There are some fantastic local shops where you will find the perfect gift! 

Who is Sylvia?

If your loved one is a fan of vintage clothing, look no further! Who is Sylvia? features women's and men's clothing and accessories from the mid-nineteenth to twentieth century, as well as vintage linens and lace. 

Pick up your vintage piece at 26 Central St, Woodstock, VT and keep up to date with them on their Facebook page.

Indigo

Looking for some comfy yet stylish clothes for your loved one that's working from home? Indigo in Hanover is the perfect place to explore. Peruse brands like Patagonia, Birkenstock, Vince, Wooden Ships, and more! You can also learn more about what they've been up to this 2020 and how they've been dealing with the pandemic in one of our recent articles.

Pick up your items at 22 S Main St Hanover, NH and visit them online today! 

Elevation Clothing

Is the fashionista in your life also very active? If so, Elevation Clothing is the perfect fit for them! They're a “brick and mortar” store in the historic Village of Woodstock, Vermont. They carry stylish and quality clothing and accessories to meet the needs of active women and men, plus a limited selection of adorable clothing for kids and infants.  

For the Kiddos

We can't forget the kids! Take a look at some great local shops where you will find a gift that is sure to bring a smile to the little ones' faces. 

Nature Calls

Located in the Powerhouse Mall in West Lebanon, NH, Nature Calls/Bonkers is a science, nature and educational toy store for people of all ages. Whether you're looking for a toy for a toddler or for an adult, this is the place to shop. Find a wide range of toys like Plus Plus Blocks, wrist watches, Blockaroo, and more.

Visit them at 8 Glen Road, PowerHouse Mall, Lebanon, NH, online, or give them a call at (603) 298-5522.

Country Kids Clothing

Does the little one in your life need some new clothes? Country Kids Clothing is a boutique store specializing in quality children's clothing and toys.  So you can find a nice sweater alongside the fun toy you plan on getting the kiddo in your life! Country Kids keeps your little ones comfy and happy indoors as well as out n' about.

You can visit them at 8 Glen Road, W. Lebanon, NH or shop on their website. 

Vermont Toys and Games