The holidays are just around the corner + this year you may want to do your shopping as early as possible. Hanukkah starts Nov. 28, Christmas is 46 days away, and Kwanzaa starts on Dec. 26. Long story short — we’ve got some shopping to do. Here’s our curated list of 26 quali-tree gift ideas.
Editor recommendations
Skylar: This year, I plan to do some shopping at Kindred, Made in KC, River Market Antiques, and Mean Mule Distilling Co., but I can’t divulge what I’ve already bought because the gift receivers are KCtoday readers (obviously).
Travis: Honestly, I’m terrible about procrastinating with my gifts. Thankfully, Made in KC has an incredible hometown array for last-minute shopping. Otherwise, I’ve bought from Restless Spirits, Messenger Coffee, and the City Market.
Stocking stuffers
- Beef jerky from Joe’s Kansas City
- A personalized ornament from Hallmark
- Luggage tags from Red Hare Leather
If you’re shopping for…
The music maven that will sell out T-Mobile Center one day:
Treat them to a holiday album from Josey Records or a home audio system from Sound Environment.
The White Elephant gift exchange match — with a $25 limit to boot:
Kansas City’s Fetch has practical small gifts like planners, candles, and patches — all with fun sayings that are sure to leave you cackling.
The foodie in your life that loves trying new restaurants:
We recommend a gift-wrapped box of Bootleg Bourbon Balls — perfect to set out at a NYE party — or a gift card from Pierpont’s at Union Station for a date night at a later time.
The runner always prepping for their next half marathon:
Nothing says motivation for the 2022 Garmin Kansas City Marathon like a new pair of kicks from KC Running & Sports Medicine. The cyclist in your life will surely appreciate a tune up from ERIK’S — Bike & board.
The coworker that has an Instagram page for their pet:
They’ll scream for some ice cream treats with their furry friend from Mixed Mutt Creamery — just think of the photo opportunities. Look ahead, and book next month’s grooming service with CITYDOGs.
The craft beer aficionado that loves a local brew:
Get the brew crew together again, and schedule a day of flights at the beer hall in Boulevard Brewing Co.’s Tour and Recreation Center. Snag a pack of everyone’s favorites or some glasses to commemorate the day on the way out — it will be the gift that keeps on giving when the holidays roll around.
The next door neighbor always looking to learn something new:
Sign them up for an individual class with HLM Dance Academy, or conquer their fears by booking the first month of RoKC’s intro to lead belay and lead climbing class.
The sports fans who is all about the Chiefs Kingdom:
Surprise them with tickets to a December game — who says the holidays can’t come early? Take in the views of GEHA Field, and dive into the Hall of Honor history with a public or private guided tour.
The pal who always forgets about self care but could use a break:
Relax + unwind with a gift box of soaps, bath bombs, or beard oils from Bear Soap Company. Plan a girls day at the Spa at Briarcliff, and indulge in mani pedis + massages.
The bookworm who loves reading the latest book release at Nelson-Atkins:
Stock up on some new reads from Wise Blood Booksellers, and nab a bag of their favorite roast from Messenger to accompany them. Pro Tip: You get 10% off from Messenger when you sign up on the email list.
The parents who love a good game night and just learned how to FaceTime:
They’ll have no clue what’s coming if you schedule a family show with The Dinner Detective. Raise the stakes with a home dinner from the Kansas City Steak Company.
The kiddo in your life who happens to be the cutest nugget of all time:
Stimulate their thinking with a sensory toy from Brookside Toy and Science, or let them create a beary good companion at Build-A-Bear Workshop in Zona Rosa.
And if wrapping isn’t your forte + your presents tend to look a little something like this – you can get your purchases professionally gift wrapped with BOWtique.
