End the year by making all the best decisions, starting by shopping locally for your holiday necessities and gifts. 

For many, holiday shopping can be a stressful time. For others, they get enjoyment out of the hustle and bustle, the bright lights and decorations, and hopping from store to store. This holiday season looks different for many of us, but that does not mean that certain traditions have to stop. Just remember to follow the COVID-19 guidelines and keep your health and safety and everyone else’s in your mind when stepping out of your house.

Consider getting acquainted with local businesses while you put a pause to shopping sprees at the mall. Perhaps you’ll find in the end that big name stores aren’t all that to begin with.

Hazlewood

Move aside fast-fashion, vintage is back and here to stay. Hazlewood has been around for five years with the focus on providing quality clothing and accessories. They also sell other items such as furniture, and accessories and beauty products. 

Brainsport

Find the shoe that fits perfectly and other sporting goods at Brainsport. I remember making my parents drive into the city when I was younger just to come to this store for some good track shoes. The experience was well worth it — from friendly staff to the wide variety of choices, you are sure to find the perfect gift for the athlete in your life.

Hardpressed Print Studio

If you live in Saskatchewan, then you’ve probably seen numerous “Made in SK” hoodies. You guessed it, those come from this store. Aside from their own line of clothing, they also sell products from other brands such as Carhartt WIP, Naked & Famous Denim and Wrangler.

Soul Paper

This hidden gem located in Riversdale never fails to take your breath away with every visit. If you’re shopping for a writer or someone with dreams of having stationary and fancy pens, this store is the place to go. Make sure to schedule a visit because this place is brimming with variety. There is something for everyone, which makes it the gift hub for all occasions. 

Darkside Donuts 

Darkside offers a variety of donuts and drinks that will satisfy just about anyone’s taste buds. Give the perfect gift for the foodie in your life. And if that foodie is you? The more reason that you should press that order button. 

Calories Restaurant

Remember to make room for dessert during your holiday meals — especially when it comes to cake and cheesecake from Calories. Ordering has been made easy to cater to everyone’s comfort zone as they offer dine-in, curbside pick-up and delivery.

McNally Robinson 

Hailed as “Canada’s largest independent bookstore,” it comes to a surprise that one of the three existing locations can be found in Saskatoon. For book lovers out there, this place should be on your priority list. Prairie Ink Restaurant & Bakery is also in the same building, which is an added bonus and the perfect spot for a good meal and dessert.  

Prairie Sun Brewery

Brewery, restaurant, deli and offsale — what more can a person ask for? Broadway is filled with many amenities for locals and visitors alike, and this location, opened in 2019, is a great addition to the city of Saskatoon. From the wide selection of craft beer to the food and chill atmosphere, this place is the perfect stop to shop at on Broadway Avenue.

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Kristine Jones A. Del Socorro | Culture Editor

Photo: Nicholas Saretzky