Where to Shop for Unique, Local Gifts This Weekend

With Black Friday (and Small Business Saturday and Cyber Monday) just a week in the past, there’s a chance your holiday shopping is already in the bag. But if, like some of us, you thought going wine tasting in Mexico over Thanksgiving sounded like a better idea than braving the crowds at the mall while still in a stuffing-induced food coma, then you are in luck this weekend.

Finish (or start) your holiday shopping at these local marketplaces—three physical ones and one virtual.

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Balboa Park December Nights

December 2-3, Balboa Park

While many people come for the seemingly endless food options (Swedish meatballs, anyone?), the massive Balboa Park holiday festival also offers plenty of gift shopping. Pro tip: Avoid a parking nightmare by taking one of the free shuttles from around downtown.

Queen Bee Winter Market

December 2-3, 1300 Specialty Drive, Vista

With a staggering 100 vendors selling handmade goods, the Queen Bee Market is basically a one-stop-shop for all your local holiday gift needs. And while you’re at it, why not stock up on presents for all those birthday parties, baby showers, and weddings you’re attending next year?

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Holiday Makers Fair at Mission Brewery

December 5, 7-9 p.m., Mission Brewery

Okay, Monday is not technically the weekend, but this event is too cool not to include in this list. With 10+ mostly local vendors slinging everything from handmade jewelry and upcycled beer bottles to reclaimed wood birdhouses, Mission Brewery’s first ever Holiday Makers Fair has something for everyone. And did we mention there’s beer?

Shoppe California

shoppecalifornia.com

Launched in the past week (by a former San Diego Magazine employee), Shoppe California is a “handmade jewelry collective showcasing the top jewelry designers in California.” As it happens, a lot of those designers are San Diego-based. Shop for something shiny for your special someone from local brands such as Love Tatum, Kasia, and Lush Jewelry.

Where to Shop for Unique, Local Gifts This Weekend

The Queen Bee Market in Vista