Downtown for the Holidays

Ahhhh, the holidays — time to sit back and relax and let the new year roll in. See Zach over there whipping up steaming mugs of hot chocolate, and Raul over by the tree putting on the finishing touches? He was always the best at decorations. Of course John is off caroling again. The fire’s crackle just puts the finishing touches on this relaxing season.

There really is nothing quite like the holidays. What’s that? How can we be so calm at a time like this?

Yes, you are absolutely correct, holiday shopping is far from relaxing, no joy there at all. And no, I do not think that flak jacket is going to save you from the department store crowds. But listen, we here at HPR know just the secret to stress-free, even fun, holiday shopping.

Downtown Fargo will take care of all your shopping list items, no problems, no hassles, no crowds. Everything you need, all within a couple blocks.

Just grab a warm beverage at Atomic, Babb’s, Moxie Java, or the Red Raven, and follow our simple shopping guide and you’ll be done shopping, and relaxing by the fire, knitting socks in no time at all. Did I mention that these shops are locally owned, keeping the holiday cheer right here in the community. So really shopping Downtown itself is a gift to the entire community.

Happy shopping.

For Mom

Let’s start with Mom. After all, this gift might just be the one to make or break the season. Mess it up and end up in the dog house ‘til next year.

This woman has been there for you your entire life, and she is not going anywhere. A gift that is just as long lasting as your own mother’s love might be just the ticket. Head on down to Below Radar and pick up some holiday ink. Because nothing quite says I love you mom like “I love you mom,” tattooed on your bicep.

On the other hand, if you’re not up for the ink there are quite a few more options. Perhaps a personalized wine bottle from Vintner’s Cellar, or an FM Derby Girls T-shirt.

But seriously, why not get the ink?

For Dad

Every other year this guy gets that same gift— a tie, some power tools, some steak spice — the holiday standards. This year, let’s mix it up a bit.

Imagine Dad slaving away at the office all day long. What’s he daydreaming about? Most likely, not how much he likes his candy cane-colored tie, and certainly not all the work he is so excited to do with his cordless drill. No, Dad’s dreaming about that ice cold brew he’ll grab from the fridge as soon as he walks through the front door.

JL Beers has just the right gift; a growler. 64 ounces of refillable craft brew deliciousness. Now that’s the gift that keeps on giving.

Some other ideas for Dad: custom made fishing lures from Beads on Broadway, or maybe a gift card to the Fargo Theatre, where Dad can get out of the house but still sit back and relax.

For Her

Something sparkly — that’s what’s called for here. No, no, not diamond rings or necklaces (but you can find these downtown too). How about a can of “blinged” out pepper spray. Nothing quite says “‘tis the season” like a sparkly peace sign on a can of pepper spray from Vlana Vlee.

That’s hot.

Otherwise, you can’t possibly go wrong with practically any store Downtown. Find one-of-a-kind clothing and gifts at not only Vlana Vlee but stores like Lena K, One World, O’Day Cache and Zandbroz. All of them great have great gifts for any woman in your life.

For Him

Most guys are hard to shop for. Aside from a stack of video games, the new Call of Duty perhaps, a good gift for your guy will be hard to come by. Fortunately Downtown has the answer. Shops like Island Park Cycles, Orange Records, and THIS Skate & Snow, might have just what you need.

But check this out. This gift is practically oozing manliness from its very pores (good visual, right?) Y: The Last Man, a comic book about the last man left on Earth among all the women. Just screams, “I am man,” doesn’t it?

For the Whole Family

Please forgive the sentimentality, but there is no gift better than quality time with the family to get everyone in the holiday spirit. Why not treat the entire family to a night out on the town? Dinner at the Hotel Donaldson is always a great start to an evening out. The many fine restaurants in Downtown Fargo from Juano’s and Monte’s, to the Silver Moon Supper Club and Stella’s are sure to satisfy all your family’s taste buds.

Then again, if you have already had too much “quality time,” furniture for the homestead might make an excellent gift that the whole family can enjoy. For some unique furniture items take a look in Scan Design or Vlana Vlee. Then again, maybe just buy a whole new home for the holidays. Check out the 300 Building for brand new condos right in the heart of downtown.

For Friends

Admit it — this gift is generally just the least expensive thing you can pass off as a gift. Downtown will not fail you here. This time though, the gift options are sure to be a hit. How about a t-shirt from Bertrosa’s, or a maybe a moleskin journal from Zandbroz?

But be on the lookout in every store downtown for that special gift. You never know what you’ll find.

For the Enigma

Last but not least, every shopping list has this person, the one for whom you’ll spend hours searching for just the right gift. In the end nothing will seem right. At the last minute, you’ll snag the nearest item on the shelves and run out the door. Not this year.

Downtown has the answer yet again — original art from local artists. Upfront Gallery, DK Framing, Boerth’s Galley, and Gallery 4 are all great places to start. Artisan-made jewelry and the woodwork of artist of Dale Cook in Ecce Art and Yoga would make excellent gifts for anyone.

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