There are few places more charming for the holidays than Elkhart Lake. The village square is postcard-worthy with the perfect amount of twinkle and the local businesses add a great deal of holiday spirit. All we need now is a little dusting of snow and the place could be the set of a Hallmark holiday film!
As for the holiday shopping weighing on your mind? Kick off the season by supporting the village’s local businesses on Small Business Saturday on Nov. 30th. With all of the shops run by locals and within walking distance of one another, holiday shopping in Elkhart Lake is convenient and community-oriented.
Then, mark your calendar for Saturday December 7th (noon- 4pm) for the 13th Annual Retail Open House. Think of it as more than just checking off items on your list. It’s a once-a-year occasion where all of Elkhart Lake’s retailers open their doors and offer special sales, beverages, holiday treats, and raffles. It’s a time to gather, to mingle, and to support the businesses during the winter season. For a small town, the retail scene has a great variety! Here’s a little preview of the participating shops:
AspenOak
After celebrating their second summer in the village, AspenOak will bring December cheer to East Rhine Street. Cute homegoods can always be found on their shelves and around the holidays they stock up on a great selection of holiday-themed decor. Their paper goods as well as personal accessories are perfect for holiday gift bags.
Elkhart Lake Outfitters and Gina’s Fine Gifts
From outdoor clothing, gear, and footwear to luxury bath items, candles, and jewelry, whoever is left on your list can be styled and cozy for winter. Elkhart Lake Outfitters and Gina’s Fine Gifts can be found under one roof and both arms of the business focus on quality brands. You can also find gift wrapping and cards here.
Gifts of Grace
Just two doors down from AspenOak, Gifts of Grace focuses on gifts made in the USA and Scotland. Like their sister store (Sonlight Books), the Elkhart Lake location offers a variety of Christian books for all ages plus cards and home decor.
The Intuitive Balance
There’s no better time than Wisconsin winter to add some uplifting or grounding elements to our homes. For the earthy and mystical family and friends on your list, check out The Intuitive Balance for shimmering crystals as well as crystal jewelry.
Nordic Accents
This is the season to step into the enchanted cozy corners of the Nordic Accents shop. It’s a wonderful spot for Scandinavian woolen apparel and footwear as well as artisan winter home goods. Don’t miss the winter themed children’s book selection for the little ones on your list.
Small Town Big Family
If you’re looking for gifts that feel uniquely inspired by the lake and the little community surrounding it, Small Town Big Family is your best bet. They keep the 53020 zip code at the heart of every product they make. Their hats and laid back apparel are geared towards every age group.
Two Fish Gallery
For creative folks, or for anyone on your list who keeps a colorful and inviting home, Two Fish Gallery has what you’re looking for. All of the decorative art inside the gallery is made by hand and the bulk of the ceramic kitchen and garden items are fired in the kiln behind the studio. There’s also beautiful handmade cards here.
Vintage Elkhart Lake
Whether red wine or whiskey is your warming beverage of choice, Vintage Elkhart Lake’s selection will impress whoever it is you’re buying a bottle for. Sparkling wine, local craft beer, festive non-alcoholic drinks, chocolate, and Wisconsin cheese are also available for gift items as well as holiday parties.
There’s no place like Elkhart Lake for the holidays. And there’s no time like the holidays to support Elkhart Lake entrepreneurs. Shopping small is the Elkhart way. We hope to see everyone out and about in the village on December 7th for the Retail Holiday Open House.
