Raleigh Local Holiday Gift Guide [2024]

Raleigh Local Holiday Gift Guide [2024]

Looking for the best holiday gifts this season? Here is a local Raleigh holiday gift guide to help you find the best items near you.

With the holidays around the corner, many people are going shopping for their loved ones. Raleigh, NC, has many favorite local businesses with things you can gift this year, no matter who you shop for. 

Whether you are searching for the latest gadgets, home essentials, or unique experiences, Raleigh's local businesses have something for everyone. The holiday season is a great time to shop locally. 

Shopping local does not only mean small businesses, but it is also a great way to find personalized and creative gifts for people before the new year, especially for those who aren't sure what they want. 

If you are on the hunt for the best gifts this holiday season, look no further. Keep reading to learn more about some unique local gifts that you can buy for your loved ones. Raleigh is home to many unique places, so get your shop on. 

Here is the Raleigh local holiday gift guide for 2024. 

1. Gifts for Parents

The holidays are a great time to get your parents a gift to show them that you love and appreciate them. Whether it is something they have been needing, like a household item, something they have always wanted, or even something cool you think they will like, there are many different options when you are shopping for your parents. 

Parents often appreciate gifts that bring comfort and joy into their homes. Personalized items are some popular ideas you can get your parents for the holidays to add that sentimental touch. Other gifts, such as practical ones that make daily life easier, are also a great idea when shopping for your parents. 

No matter what you choose to get your parents for the holidays, they will love it because you took the time to get them something. Below are some popular items in the Raleigh area. 

• Locally Roasted Coffee Beans
• Homemade Candle
• Personalized Ornament 

2. Gifts for Your Significant Other

When you are shopping for your significant other, the best gifts come from love and thoughtfulness. Ideas such as personalized gifts that reflect your connection, experiences to share together, or even something that caters to their hobbies can be great ideas for a gift. 

Everyone wants something different, and if you can not decide on what to get your significant other for the holidays, just shop around the Raleigh area. There are many small businesses with great gifts that cater to anyone's needs. Do not stress yourself when you are shopping; no matter what you buy, they will love and cherish it because you got it for them, and it came from the heart. 

• Homemade Bag
• Triangle Wine Company Gift Card
• UGG Slippers
• Massage Gun

3. Gifts for Pet Owners

Looking for the perfect gift for our fur friend owners, look no further. Raleigh, NC, has many pet-friendly places in which you can get practical accessors or even some cute treats and toys to provide enjoyment for the pets. If you aren't sure what to get exactly, there are many places you can get gift cards to the Inn, which pet owners can use to spend time with their fur baby in the city. 

As a pet owner, they appreciate any gift that makes the pet's life easier and happier; anything from a bag of treats to grooming tools can be a great gift idea. If you know the pet personally, you can also go shopping around the local stores and find the perfect gift for that fur baby. Shopping for pet owners is fun and easy, so do not stress; there are many places to find the perfect gift in this city. 

• Pawsitivity Designs Bandana
• Pet Supply Gift Card
• Furbo Mini Pet Camera
• Dog 2025 Calendar

4. Gifts for Students

Students often seek gifts that support their academic careers or even self-care. Students tend to appreciate gifts such as planners, cozy blankets, candles, headphones, and anything they can use every day. Buying for a student can be very easy, especially with many schools surrounding the Raleigh area; you can easily go on campus and buy some gear as well. 

On the other hand, being a student isn't the only thing in their life; you can also find gifts that cater to their interest and hobbies, such as books, tech gadgets, or even trendy clothes. Raleigh has many local boutiques that cater to many interests. Below are some popular items to purchase in Raleigh for a student for the holidays.  

• NC State Coffee Beans
• Apple AirPods
• Stanley Cup

5. Gifts for Adventurers

Adventurers look for gifts that fuel their passion for exploring. These types of people tend to appreciate gifts such as gear for their outdoor activities, durable backpacks, or even multi-tools. Items that can be used on their adventures are perfect for the holidays. 

You can find tailored gifts at many local stores if you know the specific type of exploring someone does. However, if you're unsure, several versatile gifts would be suitable for any adventurer. Here are some popular shopping ideas for this holiday season.

• Shibumi Shade Canopy
• Carhartt Beanie
• Galaxy Fun Park Gift Card
• Stanley Cook Set

6. Gifts Under $20

If you're shopping on a budget, there's no need to worry—Raleigh has plenty of stores offering thoughtful and affordable gifts. Many people look for unique, handcrafted items that add a personal touch, while others prefer practical gifts like trendy clothing. 

Regardless of what you're seeking, you can find many stores where the perfect gift can be purchased for under $20. Remember, price doesn't have to limit your search for a meaningful gift. Here are some budget-friendly ideas you can consider this holiday season.

• NC Puzzle
• Shower Steamers
• Beer Bottle Chiller

7. Gifts for Foodies

Foodies often seek gifts that reflect their passion for food. Fortunately, Raleigh is home to some fantastic culinary establishments, top-rated bakeries, and food experiences. Gift cards to local restaurants or cooking classes make excellent gifts for food enthusiasts during the holidays. 

Additionally, you might want to consider kitchen gadgets or useful cooking tools, as many foodies enjoy preparing their own dishes at home. Regardless of their specific interests, there are plenty of gift options available to choose from.

• Joy Worthy Co Cooking Class
• Gym Tacos Gift Card
• Precision Cooker
• Honey Sampler Set

8. Gifts for Singles

Looking for a holiday gift for someone who is single? There are so many great gifts you can get to treat them to comfort, coziness, and a little luxury this season. No matter what they are interested in, these ideas are perfect for this holiday season. 

Singles appreciate gifts for personal enjoyment. Many people look for activities they can enjoy like event passes and items that cater to their interests and hobbies. Another popular thing you can shop for is self-care gifts. Nothing is better than taking care of yourself, so take a stroll down Downtown Raleigh, and you will find many stores where you can find the perfect gift. 

• Knitted Weighted Blanket
• Affirmation Mug
• Gift Cards to Dinner
• Fox Crochet Kit
• Handmade Candles
• Carolina Hurricanes Tickets

9. Gifts for Gift Exchanges/Parties

It can be hard to figure out what to get for gift exchanges and parties. A great way to approach this is to look for items that are fun and versatile so many people can enjoy them. Many popular things to buy are festive candles, gift baskets, or even any trendy item. 

If you're unsure about what to get, don't worry. Visit your local store, explore the options, and find something useful for everyday use or a practical gift. Regardless of what you choose, the recipient will appreciate it.

• Nons Pinching Salts
• Deco Raleigh Gift Box
• YETI Tumbler

10. Gift Markets in Raleigh

The Triangle area has many gift markets to visit every year. Here is a list of some and when you can go shopping for the holiday season. 

Sunday, December 1st

Holiday Gift Market

4285 Trinity Rd, Raleigh

250+ exhibitors come together every year to showcase arts, crafts, food, gifts, and holiday decorations. In the Jim Graham Building, this is one of the largest Christmas gift shows in the state. The fair requires admission, which is $10 per ticket. It is from 11 am to 1 pm at the NC State Fairgrounds. 

Saturday, December 7th

Jolly Raleigh Holiday Market

1101 E Whitaker Mill Rd, Raleigh

Presented by Shop Local Raleigh to celebrate small businesses, this event features sipping local beer while shopping for local treasures and finding kid activities. The Raleigh Iron Works' hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Sunday, December 8th

Handmade Hanukkah Market

5315 Creedmore Rd, Raleigh

This is an annual event that showcases crafts and handiwork from Jewish artisans. It is held at Temple Beth from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Wednesday, December 11th

Holiday Market at The Durham

315 E. Chapel Hill St, Durham

Gather around to celebrate the season with festive drinks and shopping for gifts from local vendors. This year, the market will raise awareness and funds for a non-profit Y Learning from the Durham YMCA. Tickets are required, but the event is sold out. 

Saturday, December 14th

Art-n-Soul Holiday Market

1423 Stallings Rd, Durham

Come and enjoy authentic eggnog and free bourbon tasting while taking in the unique setting and nine of the bourbon barrel-lined event space. You can meet Santa Clause and enjoy a craft cocktail and live music at Mystic Farm and Distillery from 12-4 pm.

Methodology

We used information from different sources and our data to create this guide on local gifts for the holidays in Raleigh, NC. 

• WRAL News
• Raleigh Mag
• News Observer
• RalToday

We used the following sources to gather most of our information on the Raleigh local holiday gift guide.

FAQS

What is the most common holiday gift?

The most common holiday gifts are candy, homemade gifts, gift cards, makeup products, books, self-care items, and skin care products. 

When should you start holiday shopping?

You should start brainstorming what you want to buy and create a list beforehand. Many people tend to do holiday shopping from October through December. The closer it is to the holidays, the harder it can be. 

How much should you spend on holiday gifts?

Everyone is different, but the common rule of thumb is that you should not spend more than 1-2% of your yearly income on gifts. However, keep in mind that you should budget and prioritize, especially during the holiday season, so there is no stress. 

How many small businesses are there in Raleigh, NC? 

Raleigh proudly hosts over 26,000 small businesses. This vibrant city showcases a delightful variety of small enterprises, including charming locally owned wineries and unique clothing boutiques, each contributing to its rich community fabric.

Raleigh Local Holiday Gift Guide [2024] - The Bottom Line

This holiday season, shop local. Not only does it support small business owners, but it is also a great way to find personalized and creative gifts for everyone. 

Raleigh offers a diverse selection of stores to shop at. Whether you are searching for gifts for your parents or students or are on a budget, you will be able to find the perfect fit to make this holiday season truly special. 

Sometimes shopping for the holidays can cause some stress, but do not worry. Shop around Raleigh, and you will find the perfect gifts, even for those who are hard to shop for. After reading this guide, hopefully, you have a better idea of gifts to get this holiday season. 

If you are considering moving or selling, contact us or visit our website. Our team at Raleigh Realty is here to help you with any home buying or selling needs.