The Holiday Season is getting closer and many people are still looking for ways to shop small and support local. Luckily, in Old East Village, small businesses, grassroots organizations, and independent restaurants are plentiful and the options are endless. Last week we explored the many options available for those Gastro Aficionados in your life, and this week, we’ll take a turn towards everyday, accessible refinement.
For those who believe art imitates life, live to consume live music, or are looking to add intriguing historical facts to their party conversation arsenal, we’ve got you covered as we explore what to get for the Culture Cultivators in your life.
Aeolian Hall Virtual Concert Series
Although the holidays at Aeolian Hall will look a little different this year, you can still enjoy curated world class, Canadian, and local music from the comfort of home with their various virtual concerts. For those who cannot get enough Christmas this time of year, treat them to The Good Lovelies - Christmas Time’s A Comin’, streaming on December 10. Or, for more grade-A music, check out the remainder of their November Phoenix Concert Series (a monthly subscription for just $20 gets you tickets to four weekly virtual concerts each month) and stay tuned for what’s to come in December!
Somerville 630’s Local Art Gallery
Did you know that Somerville 630 has a full and spacious art gallery which displays local sculptures, paintings, and prints that rotate monthly? You can simply take in the sights or choose your favourite for purchase. For that art lover in your life, what could be better than a unique piece that was created right here in town? Oh and while you’re there, be sure to grab something tasty at one of the five restaurants and a cup of coffee from Fire Roasted!
The Palace Theatre Wardrobe Sale
In an effort to fundraise while closed due to COVID-19 restrictions, The Palace Theatre is having a Wardrobe Sale. You can snag one or many of these beautiful vintage pieces offering support to a staple organization in the OEV community. Your giftee doesn’t need to be a theatre lover to love this concept! Browse what’s available on Facebook and give the gift of local culture this holiday!
Banting House Tours and Gift Shop
There’s no better way to treat the history buff in your life than with a tour of London’s only National Historic Site, Banting House. While there you’ll encounter local history frozen in time and fascinating facts about Dr. Banting that will leave you in awe of this accomplished historical figure. Plus, visit the gift shop for the perfect card or gift to go along with an experience your loved one will never forget! To book a tour, email banting@diabetes.ca or call 519-673-1752 ext. 2226.
London Clay Art Centre Retail Store
For anyone who has a love for all things made by hand and with passion, there’s no better place than the London Clay Art Centre’s Retail Store. Showcasing the work of approximately 35 artists from London and surrounding area, each piece is jury selected to ensure it meets the standards of the Potters Guild. Give the gift of high-quality pottery, from functional to sculptural pieces, that are available at very affordable prices… you really can’t go wrong!
Strings Cafe and Guitar Shop
For the musicians in your life, check out Strings Cafe and Guitar Shop. Featuring a wide variety of guitars, ukuleles, pedals, songbooks, and accessories, there’s a little something for every virtuoso out there. Plus, grab yourself a cup of coffee or espresso while you browse to make the shopping experience that much better!
Let authors do the talking!
Looking to expand the (presumably large) existing library of the culture lover on your shopping list? Check out one of the many bookstores in OEV that will have you covered on every topic or interest. There’s Mystic Bookshop for all your spiritual and horticultural needs, Bread & Roses for classic and contemporary literature, Neo-Tokyo for all things anime, and Worlds Away for the comic book lovers. No matter the niche, you’ll find the perfect fit at one of these OEV bookstores.
Once more, we’ve covered a lot of ground and have hopefully provided you with plenty of options to stoke the intellectual flames for the Culture Cultivator in your life. Be sure to check out all the great shops and restaurants in OEV this season and stay tuned for more perfect gifts for that special (and specific!) someone this holiday.