Festive Celebrations, Joyous Moments, and Family Gatherings
Supporting Local Businesses in the Nicola Valley During the Holiday Season
There’s no better time to shop local in Merritt, British Columbia, than during the Christmas shopping season. Supporting our local stores is a meaningful act during the holidays.
When I think about Christmas shopping in Merritt, BC, I instantly recall the charm of downtown merchants. Growing up here in the Nicola Valley, I created many cherished memories while shopping at local businesses during Christmas. It felt like the entire town participated in supporting its local shops. Unfortunately, we faced challenges in recent years due to the Covid pandemic, which put many of our traditional festivities on pause. However, this season offers the perfect opportunity to show your appreciation for local businesses while selecting heartfelt gifts for loved ones.
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Santa’s Elf. Photo by Tania Stewart |
Santa’s best elves. Photo credit: Tania Stewart |
“Many local businesses kick off the shopping season with fantastic discounts and sales, along with the warm, personal service that we’re proud of in our community.” – Tania Stewart
Christmas Tree at Spirit Square. Photo credit: Tania Stewart. |
Christmas Shopping in Merritt, BC During Seasonal Events
One of the highlights of the holiday season is our annual Christmas parade, known as Country Xmas. It’s the moment when I officially start my holiday shopping. Make this year’s holiday truly memorable by shopping locally and enjoying the festive events happening around town.
Local Artisans in Downtown Merritt
When I search for unique personal gifts, I often wonder which local stores to visit. Matching gifts to the right store is an art form. However, the Nicola Valley boasts many local artisans offering handmade treasures. You can find special gifts for loved ones right here.
Holiday Parade. Photo by Greg Girard |
Vision Quest Optical and Gifts
Owned by Jeanine Gustafson, Vision Quest is a treasure trove of gifts and gadgets for Christmas shopping in Merritt, BC. Supporting local businesses is vital, and this season is the perfect time to do so. What can you expect to find at Vision Quest? A wonderful selection of items including jewelry, gems, unique glasses, toys, cards, books, and local art. Jeanine is also a skilled optician with 30 years of experience, providing optical services alongside her gift offerings.
Decorative BC designed drum bag. Photo credit: Jeanine Gustafson |
Feather earrings by Jeanine Gustafson |
Handmade baby moccasins. Photo credit Jeanine Gustafson |
Did You Know?
A significant portion of the First Nations artwork originates from the Nicola Valley and nearby areas like Lillooet. Jeanine also collaborates with artists to offer unique First Nations items from BC that attract visitors from far and wide. You can find stunning pieces such as drum bags, red lampshades, beaded earrings, medallions, baskets, and cards at reasonable prices. This local shopping experience brings us back to our community.
Gems and Jewelry. Photo credit: Jeanine Gustafson |
1st Nations Art. Photo credit: Jeanine Gustafson |
At Vision Quest, you will find local books, fun toys for children, guitar picks, beading supplies, and much more!
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Creative Company. Photo credit: Experience Nicola Valley |
Holiday Shopping at Creative Company in Downtown Merritt
Creative Company is ideally located downtown and features a variety of unique handmade items suitable for all ages. Their offerings include stained glass, handwoven scarves and tea towels, handbags, silver jewelry, baby and children’s clothing, photography, and western home décor. It’s a must-visit during your holiday shopping spree, showcasing the talents of local artisans.
Hand Bags. Photo credit: Experience Nicola Valley |
Unique baby/kids clothing. Picture credit: Experience Nicola Valley |
Art Gallery and Gift Shops in Merritt, BC
The Nicola Valley Art Gallery and Gift Shop, located at 2051 Voght Street, features over 30 local artists and artisans. You’ll discover a range of beautiful gifts, including bath salts, honey, paintings, handmade scarves, knitted items, clothing, and glassworks. By shopping locally, you can avoid the holiday rush, save on gas, and support our community.
Street Art. Photo by Jano Howarth |
Art Gallery Artisans. Photo by Jano Howarth |
Supporting local businesses contributes to community growth and enriches the livelihoods of those who work tirelessly for our town.
Crafted wood. Photo by Tania Stewart |
Adorable snowmen. Photo by Tania Stewart |
Miss Vicki’s Petals and Plants Flower Shop
Located in the heart of downtown, Miss Vicki’s is a go-to holiday shopping destination for flowers and an array of gifts. As you step into the store, the vibrant colors and delightful scents create a sensory experience. The shop also proudly displays works from over 40 local artisans, offering numerous unique, handmade treasures. This truly special store encapsulates the spirit of community.
Miss Vicki’s Petals & Plants is a cherished addition to Downtown Merritt, bringing beauty and warmth to our community.
Be sure to visit Miss Vicki’s and enjoy all the welcoming smiles and colorful displays. Take your time to browse the wide variety of items available for all ages.
Life is good at Miss Vicki’s. Photo Credit: Vicki Hansen |
Flower arrangements. Photo Credit: Tania Stewart |
Birdhouse gift. Photo Credit: Tania Stewart |
The Joy of Holiday Shopping in the Nicola Valley
Christmas shopping in Merritt, BC, is not just a routine; it’s a unique privilege. Many communities are not as fortunate to have such a diverse range of unique artisan products or the personalized service that our local store owners provide throughout the year.
Merritt Christmas Parade. Photo by Greg Girard |
Festive Holiday Parade. Photo credit: Greg Girard |
Is that Santa? Picture by Greg Girard |
Bringing Christmas Spirit to Merritt, BC
The Christmas spirit in Merritt, BC, is truly alive during the holiday season. As decorations start to appear in late November or early December, the community comes together for the Experience the Nicola Valley holiday celebration.
Downtown Merritt Parade. Photo by Greg Girard |
Parade Float. Photo by Greg Girard |
Ultimately, supporting our local businesses is crucial to their survival and is the essence of the Christmas spirit throughout the Nicola Valley.
Grinch in Merritt. Photo by Greg Girard |
Merritt, BC “Lights Up” the Nicola Valley with Festive Decorations
The community showcases its love for the Christmas season with beautiful holiday displays and the annual Christmas Light Tour, allowing everyone to enjoy the festive sights.
Christmas Train. Photo by Tania Stewart |
The spirit of Christmas. Photo by Tania Stewart |
Embracing the Christmas Spirit
The true essence of the Christmas spirit in Merritt, BC, is best experienced with family and friends. Whether you are crafting a festive float for our town’s parade or selecting unique gifts from local artisans that include paintings, jewelry, and homemade goods, the heart of Christmas lies in our time together and the memories we create.
Melvina White at the Civic Centre, Merritt, BC. Photo by Tania Stewart |
Miss Vicki’s Petals and Plants Flower Shop. Photo credit: Tania Stewart. |
Final Thoughts
Nothing compares to the joy and warmth of the holidays. This year, make it a season to remember. When you shop local and select gifts for your friends and family, you are also showing appreciation for your community. Support local businesses to keep the spirit of the season alive.
Utilize the hashtag #shoplocalmerritt on social media to spread the word, supported by ExperienceNicolaValley.com and ExperienceMerritt.com
Wishing everyone in the Nicola Valley a Merry Christmas from all of us at Experience Nicola Valley and Santa himself from the North Pole.
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Santa in the North Pole. Photo credit: Greg Girard. |
Christmas Shopping in Merritt, BC, Canada
Gift a local store in the Nicola Valley. Shop local.
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Hello everyone! I am your Environmental/Eco-conscious Blogger. To me, the Nicola Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Canada, and living here is “Living the Dream”.
