Shopping Local in the Monadnock Region

Finding that special something for your loved ones during the holidays usually means you want to get gifts that are unique and meaningful. Doing that isn’t always an easy feat, especially since it seems like the days grow shorter once we turn our clocks back. One of the many great things about the Monadnock Region is all of that local and independently owned businesses that offer special and unique items that are sure to satisfy someone on your shopping list, as well as several events throughout the month of November for even more opportunities. We’ve compiled some to share with you, and help you get a jump start on that holiday shopping while also supporting local artisans and businesses.

If you have anyone in your life that loves wine and spirits, then the Monadnock Region is here to help you find just the right blend! 

Wine is always a great gift, and you can get (and taste!)locally produced wine at Walpole Mountain View &  Winery at Barnett Hill Vineyard, (open weekends thru Dec. 17) or Poocham Hill Winery(open weekends thru Nov. 26). 

For those with palettes that prefer a stronger brew, check out New England Sweetwater Farm & Distillery with tasting room open Thurs – Sun. You can peruse many of our local brews at Hannah Grimes Marketplace, where a marvelous array of locally produced gifts, foods and more await you.

Speaking of edibles, if you have any chocolate lovers on your list then a trip to Ava Marie’s Chocolates, Vicuna Chocolates, or L.A. Burdick will surely satisfy those sweets lovers.

For those in your life who are as mad about maple as we are, Ben’s Sugar Shack in Temple is bound to have something. Harvest Thyme Herbs in Dublin is another special stop that offers herb mixes for any that like to enjoy some flavorful flair to their cooking.

Want to find something unique or just love antiquing? The Monadnock Region has an amazing array of different antique and consignment shops. If you didn’t see our blog from September  where we talk about the ones in Peterborough, you can check it out here.

Another great part about November in the Monadnock Region are all of the early craft and art fairs that happen before or just after Thanksgiving. On the 17^th & 18^th of November, Stonewall Farm in Keene hosts Farm Fare, an annual celebration of harvest and the season with all sorts of food and a craft fair to get you rolling with the holiday season. Also on the 18^th is the Peterborough Holiday Stroll from 9am-2pm. This year marks the 24th year the local congregations have cooperatively arranged to hold their holiday crafts fair. While strolling from church to church around town, you can enjoy visits with Santa Claus and additional sales and events by local non-profits. Click here for a map to guide you to those special gifts.

On the 25^th of November (which also happens to be Shop Local Saturday – you can check out our blog from last year on it and Plaid Friday here) the holiday broke: The Affordable Arts Fair will be taking place in the town hall from 10am-4pm. Their philosophy “art is for everyone” plays out as 50+ artists offer wares all under $50. Did we mention the live music at Harlows Pub that night put on by the fair’s organizers from The Glass Museum? Another great art fair happening on the 25th of November is the Keene Holiday Craft Fair. This fair takes place 9am-3pm at Keene High School, this show features artist and crafters from all over New England.

November is a month chock full with chances to get some of the best and thoughtful gifts for loved ones, and even score a few treats for yourself. It warms our hearts to see guests that were able to find such amazing items in their gift searches while out exploring all that Peterborough and the rest of the region has to offer. The best part is that by doing all of that shopping at these local businesses and fairs, you’ve also helped support our local community too! With your support these businesses and fairs are able to continue providing their wares and products, and keep the Monadnock Region thriving.