Written by guest blogger Lily Katherine, Ticonderoga Area Chamber of Commerce

When I was growing up my mother always planned ahead when it came to getting presents for us kids, that way she could begin with the classic family torture of “I know something you don’t know” in August. I openly admit that I have adopted that family tradition; nothing thrills me more than bouncing into a room, wiggling my husband while enthusiastically saying “Guess what? I know something you don’t know!”  But I definitely do not possess the self-control to buy a present in September and wait all the way until December 25 to give it! Does anyone else out there identify with this? So my friends and I wait until now, when all of the shops are decorated and our lists are in hand with the names we hold dear, to pick the perfect gifts to show our love.

Shopping local is a great way to show our holiday spirit because there is nothing like finding the best gift for those you love while supporting a local entrepreneur. And for anyone visiting, shopping local is the best way to get something unique, a true taste of the Adirondacks!

So where can you go to do some local shopping? Well, let’s mosey down the road together!  We'll start out at The Country Florist and Gifts. So much more than flowers, you will find a whole gift shop upstairs as well as specialty chocolates and unique jewelry designs! The Hancock House has a gift shop for those history buffs on your list. For the community-minded person on your list, pop into the Ticonderoga Natural Foods Co-op for a variety of locally-sourced items — they even offer memberships if you plan on sticking around!

Don't forget to spoil yourself a little after all of that shopping! Try a manicure, pedicure, or maybe a new hairstyle from Meraki Hair & Beauty Studio. Then grab lunch or dinner at Burleigh’s Luncheonette, the Burgoyne Grille at the Best Western, the Hot Biscuit Diner, Emeralds II, or Eddies Restaurant.

Be sure to check out the Downtown Gallery for some lovely local artwork and handmade crafts. And as we head into the cold months don’t forget to stop by Chilson Brook Alpacas for winter apparel that is warm, snuggly, and beautiful! You can find their goodies in the Downtown Gallery, at local craft fairs, and in the holiday pop-up shop next to the gallery on Montcalm Street. You can contact Huddy & Co LLC or catch them at craft fairs for customs gifts and personalized designs. 

Another great shop is Sugar and Spice Country Shoppe where you can find country primitives, seasonal gifts, candles, antiques, and more. Head a little north to Crown Point to visit Tromblee’s Greenhouse, where you will find a large gift shop that offers an array of country, farmhouse, custom gifts, and so much more. Before you leave Crown Point send a taste of the North Country to those you love — Gunnison Orchards will ship to almost all 50 states; just go to the apple packing building and they will help you!

There are so many opportunities to find thoughtful gifts done locally. I hope this journey was helpful and your holiday shopping is joyful. Remember, the holidays can’t be found in a store. Well, maybe they can if you are shopping in the Lake Champlain Region!

There are so many opportunities to find thoughtful gifts done locally. I hope that this journey was helpful and that your Holiday shopping is joyful. Remember Christmas can’t be found in a store, well maybe it can if you are shopping in the Ticonderoga Area!

I bid you farewell my friends, we shall meet again in the New Year. Wishing you a lovely season, and as I always remind you, whatever you do, do it passionately and with purpose. Plan your own stay, and check out all of the great holiday shopping options in the Lake Champlain Region.