It’s the most wonderful time of the year… to shop small! November is Small Business Month, but you can support local businesses all winter. Make your list, check it twice then head to Cambridge for unforgettable holiday shopping excursions throughout the holiday season.
Shopping Inspiration
Unsure where to go first? Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle—we’ve got you covered. The City has mapped out Cambridge’s retailers and restaurants by neighborhood. Download neighborhood maps before you visit. Cambridge Local First’s directory also makes it easy to find local gems, and their Holiday Gift Guide overflows with ideas for the perfect present.
Annual Marketplaces
Start feeling festive with Cambridge’s seasonal markets! Cambridge Arts kicks off December with their Holiday Art Market in Kendall Square, presented in partnership with BioMed Realty Trust, December 7 and 8. The art market features locally-made items like soaps, mosaics, and calendars.
In Harvard Square, The Charles Hotel courtyard transforms into a winter wonderland for their Winter Holiday Market, December 7 and 14. There you’ll find distinctive gifts like knitwear and handmade candles. Nearby, Harvard Square Holiday Fair began offering one-of-a-kind gifts like pottery and terrariums back during 1986. The marketplace is open for two weekends again this year: December 13–15 and 20–22. While you’re in the Square, stop in the Passport to Black-Owned Businesses Holiday Pop-Up Market, open December 13–15. Browse hand-crafted gifts like sauces, bags, and jewlery from more than 16 local Black-owned businesses.
You can find more locally made gifts plus hear festive tunes while shopping Canal District Kendall’s Winter Market from December 14–15. Ice sculptures and crafts make it an exciting weekend for shoppers of every age. On December 22, more handcrafted goods are up for grabs at the Inman Holiday Market. Over 50 artists and craftspeople will sell their wares at businesses in and around Inman Square.
Holiday Strolls
The shopping spree continues with neighborhood holiday strolls at local businesses. North Cambridge’s NoCa Holiday Stroll on December 14 features carolers, seasonal treats, and more festive fun. Round out the season by roasting chestnuts, trying seasonal cocktails and, of course, finding unique gifts at the Observatory Hill and Huron Village Holiday Stroll on December 15.
However you decide to shop in Cambridge, you’re supporting local jobs and reducing emissions from shipping holiday gifts. Stay on the nice list by shopping small. Happy Holidays and Happy Shopping!
