For the kid who collects rocks, the friend who’s always reading, and the person who insists they don’t need anything: Evanston has options. Here are a few favorite places to hunt for holiday gifts, with plenty of opportunities to get distracted and buy yourself something. Where else should we stop?
20 places
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Evanston Artists & Artisans
Start with the neighbors who make things you’ll be tempted to keep for yourself. The Evanston Art Center’s Winter Arts & Crafts Expo brings together handmade work from more than 160 artisans, while Evanston Made’s Holiday Market runs November 20–December 23 at 822 Dempster, with locally made art, jewelry, ceramics, textiles, and more.
Evanston Art Center
Community art center offering diverse classes and free rotating exhibits.
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And duck into Bookman’s Alley for Space to Place, a shared marketplace where Evanston entrepreneurs are trying out their first storefronts. Browse art, jewelry, home goods, vintage finds, and treats while discovering a few new businesses to root for. Open Wednesday–Sunday, 11 a.m.–6 p.m., through December 31.
Favorite Books, Games, and Music
A book with a note inside, a record you can’t wait for someone to hear, or a game that gets everyone around the table: some gifts come with plans built in. Evanston’s independent shops are full of possibilities, and if you’re stumped, tell a bookseller a little about your person. Finding the right match is part of the fun.
Bookends & Beginnings
Booked
Charming independent bookstore featuring a curated selection of titles for children and adults.
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Heroines & Heroes
Local game and comic book store offering a wide selection of board games and graphic novels.
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Squeezebox Books & Music Inc
Hip merchant of secondhand books, plus used LPs, 45s & CDs in a variety of music genres.
Ideas for the Kiddos
For little collectors, big imaginations, and kids whose wish lists change daily. These spots are good for discovering something they didn’t know they wanted, whether that’s a fossil to treasure or a new toy to unwrap.
Dave's Down to Earth Rock Shop
Longtime rock & mineral shop selling specimens, jewelry & beads, with a basement fossil museum.
Maya Papaya & Tony Macarony
Brand-name children's clothing, accessories, books & toys, sold in a vibrant, welcoming boutique.
Style, Design, and One-of-a-Kind
For the friend who always finds the coolest things, here’s your chance to return the favor. Browse beautiful home goods, playful handmade gifts, and everyday objects with a little extra personality. You may want to leave time for a second (or third) lap.
Velvet Stitch House
niceLena & Friends
Whimsical gift shop featuring handmade jewelry, unique crafts, and custom candles.
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Tokaido General Store
Fashion finds
For the friend whose outfit you always compliment, or the sibling who keeps borrowing yours.
A L L É R E Boutique
Classy Closet Consignment
Standard consignment shop stocking a variety of apparel, accessories & shoes for men & women.
Alicia Mohr
Boutique specializing in jewelry and home decor plus apparel and accessories.
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Minouchic Boutique Beauty Supply Resale Specialty And New
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