6 Spots for Unique, Last-minute Holiday Shopping in MA

Posted by Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

So, if you’ve been putting off holiday shopping for friends, family or yourself, see if one of these shops has something to tickle your fancy!
Taza Chocolate in Somerville, MA
Know someone special with a sweet tooth? A quick stop at Taza is all you’ll need to make him or her happy. Taza’s delicious dark chocolate comes in bars, disks and tins, many of which have special flavors, and they can be found at various locations throughout the state. For something with a seasonal spin, the Factory Limited Peppermint Stick is a most tempting option.

Photo: Taza Factory Limited Peppermint Stick via Facebook

Slumbrew in Somerville, MA
Festive beverages always make for good gifts and you can find plenty of them at Slumbrew, Taza’s craft brewing Somerville neighbor. The Porter Square Porter, named after (you guessed it) nearby Porter Square, is a nice wintry quaff, as is the Yankee Swap. For a full list of the beers, which also include Belgian, Red Ale and other choices, just click here.
Pairpoint Glass in Sagamore, MA
Founded all the way back in 1837, Pairpoint Glass is one America’s oldest and finest glassworks, with works at the Metropolitan Museum in New York and the Museum of Fine Arts Boston to prove it. While you won’t get your hands on those particular masterpieces, Pairpoint still has plenty to choose from. The Christmas gifts, ornaments and witch balls are all great seasonal gifts, which you can explore in full at Pairpoint’s Cape Cod store or website.

Photo: Decorated plate via Pairpoint Glassworks on Facebook

Sassy Monkey Soap in Northampton, MA
Northampton is well known for its quirky stores and Sassy Monkey is one with a name to match. The soap is all-natural, crafted without the chemicals, preservatives and hardeners so often found in commercially sold suds, and each bar is unique. There are options for adults, babies and even pooches, as well as making your own, if you want to get creative. Sassy Monkey does sell their soap in bulk, so it’s best to order for a few friends (and maybe yourself!).
Harbor Sweets in Salem, MA
In 1973, Harbor Sweets building opened its doors for business. Forty years later, they’re still going strong and North of Boston chocoholics are all the better for it. Harbor Sweets offers delectable handmade chocolates of all types in several different packages, including classic assortments, themed arrangements and holiday batches, to name just a few. For something new, try the Salt & Ayre Chocolates, which are inspired by spices drawn from Thailand, the Himalayas and beyond.

Photo: Harbor Sweets Salt & Ayre Chocolate via Facebook

Massachusetts Farms Wine and Cheese Trail across MA
There are gift options for foodies and oenophiles alike along the MA wine and cheese trail, which winds its way across the entire state, encompassing 21 wineries and 11 artisan cheesemakers. Several of these locations feature stores as well, where passersby can stock up on all kinds of enticing items, from beverages to baked goods. Some vineyards and wineries also have upcoming special events, which you can explore here.
You can explore further Massachusetts shopping options here and on massvacation.com.

TOPICS: Holidays, Shopping