The holidays mean many things to many people: celebrating with friends and family, indulging in favorite recipes, and getting into the holiday spirit at community events. Gift giving is another beloved part of the holiday season and there’s nothing like a pile of brightly-wrapped gifts under the tree just waiting to be unwrapped.
With the season of giving also comes the season of shopping! This year, why not skip the crowded malls and instead check out the many low-key shopping centers and independent shops in Yolo County? From toys and electronics to jewelry and clothing, you can cross off every name on your list while supporting local businesses. Plus, you can make a whole day of it by grabbing lunch at one of Yolo County’s great restaurants, or even make a weekend of it by taking advantage of the many hotel deals in Yolo County.
Davis
The city of Davis has many draws, from its bike-friendly pathways to its many restaurants. But did you know Davis is also a popular shopping destination? It has its share of national retailers and big box stores so you won’t have any trouble finding the hottest toys or most in-demand electronics, but it’s also home to many independent boutiques, antique stores, second-hand shops and art galleries. Following are some spots to check out:
Avid & Co. Avid & Co. is an independent toy store that aims to foster the love of play. They offer puzzles and games for adults and kids alike, as well as arts and crafts, stuffed animals, and classic toys like jump ropes and slingshots. Tip: It’s the sister store to the longstanding Avid Reader Book Store, another great shop in downtown Davis.
Newsbeat. The quintessential mom-and-pop newsstand of days past, Newsbeat carries just about any periodical you’re looking for, including newspapers and magazines catering to every imaginable audience. They also have a wide selection of unique gift items as well, including puzzles, stuffed animals and greeting cards. Tip: Locals know it’s one of the best spots to pick up snacks on-the-go, as well as old-timey candy and soda.
Davis Farmers’ Market. Yes, the Davis Farmers’ Market has plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to take home. But they also have plenty of gift items as well! Vendors sell gourmet food produces perfect for gift-giving, such as local honey, fruit preserves, coffee, nuts and toffee. There are also artisan crafters offering candles, pottery, quilts and other handmade items. Tip: The Davis Farmers’ Market will hold special hours on Friday, Dec. 24 from 8 a.m.–noon but will be closed Dec. 25.
West Sacramento
West Sacramento is another shopping hotspot, with every major retailer within easy reach. There are also some stores you won’t find anywhere else in the region (I’m looking at you, IKEA). Although West Sacramento is best known for its national brands and big-box stores, it also has several smaller shops where you can find unique gifts, including the following:
Fugitive Toys. The West Sacramento outpost of this Bay Area-based shop is your one-stop shop for all things Funko! The have one of the largest selections of Funko Pops! in the area, from Marvel to Pokémon to Star Wars. Tip: They also carry trading cards, keychains and PopSockets, which make great stocking stuffers.
Luxe. This curated gift shop truly has something for everyone. Clothing, jewelry, bath and body items, home goods and holiday décor are just a few of the things you’ll find here. Tip: Follow them on Facebook during the holiday season and look for the daily code for 20 percent off that day’s item.
Winters
Downtown Winters is rich with historic charm, and its home to several boutiques where you can pick up all types of items, many of them locally made. Following are some top picks:
Winters Collective. Winters Collective is a curated shop featuring the work of independent vendors and local artists. You can find everything from home décor to children’s clothing, skincare products to jewelry. Tip: They also host workshops and special events, such as a holiday wreath-making class and art gallery pop-ups.
Bella Boutique. If you’re looking for handmade jewelry and accessories, pop in to Bella Boutique. They have all types of fashionable goodies, such as hats, scarves, handbags, necklaces, earrings and much more. Tip: The owner makes many of the crocheted items herself!
Winters Fruit Tree. Have a foodie in your life? Treat them to the bounty that Yolo County has to offer with a visit to the Winters Fruit Tree. Here, you’ll find a variety of gourmet food items, including honey, nuts, nut butter, jams and jellies, coffee, candy and much more. Tip: Combine multiple items and create a hand-curated Yolo County-themed gift basket!
If you’re hoping to ditch the overcrowded malls and traffic jams, get your shopping done in Yolo County. It’s home to all the big-name stores that carry the latest hot-ticket items, as well as smaller shops and indie boutiques where you can find a one-of-a-kind gift. Best of all, it has the small-town charm you won’t find anywhere else. Make a weekend of it by taking advantage of lodging specials in Davis, West Sacramento and Winters.
