The holiday rush is on here in Dallas. To take the stress out of last-minute holiday shopping, we put together a guide to our favorite locally made gifts for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. Still need a Christmas tree? We’ve got you covered there, too, with some of our favorite Christmas tree farms from across the state.
Where to Buy the Best Holiday Gifts in Dallas-Fort Worth
We all know that many gifts can be purchased with just a click from many big box online retailers, but we love the idea of finding unique Texas-made and sold gifts that can be a joy to both buy and give. Browse our favorite DFW gifts below, and be sure to let us know where you’re shopping locally this holiday season!
Lone Chimney Mercantile
Lone Chimney Mercantile has set up shop in Richardson and the Dallas Farmers Market, and it’s worth stopping in the store to scope out the myriad quirky collections and unique finds. If you’re set on doing all your gift-giving from the comfort of home, however, the store’s online pop art will really…um, pop on any wall. Stay local with a piece like the mirrored Dallas skyline or the Howdy from Dallas billboard, or go with another city’s landmark and spin it as a vacation for the recipient.
Talking Out Of Turn
Talking Out Of Turn, or Toot, as they refer to themselves, is perhaps the most vibrant shop in the DFW area. The variety of mini notebooks, planners, to-do lists, and stickers can brighten up even the saddest workspaces. Additionally, the colorful totes, hip pouches, and laptop bags will make anyone the center of attention, but in a fun way, not a “what in the world is that person doing?” way. The “Not Today” glass mug is a delightful option, too.
We Are 1976
You could very well find something besides clothing from We Are 1976, which features a bevy of stationery, cards, home goods, plushies, and more from a vast collection of independent artists around the U.S. But we’re highlighting the apparel section here—notably, this “In Your Eyes” tee by Factory 43 that replicates the classic stereo scene from “Say Anything,” only with a raccoon doing the move instead of John Cusack.
Dolly Python Vintage
We love a solid retro piece of clothing, and Dolly Python Vintage is a gold mine for these types of goodies. Friends or family members with a flair for fashion will appreciate anything you find from here. And because everything in the store is antique, discovering something cool to gift feels like you just won a treasure hunt.
Common Ground Games
From board games to trading card games to miniatures and dice, Common Ground Games has something for everyone. Gift a classic to someone you’re visiting for the holidays, or try to find a more obscure selection that your gaming aficionado pal has never tried before.
READ MORE: Local goods to give this holiday season
The Dinner Detective
If you give this gift to an extreme introvert who dislikes mysteries and people, your gesture will probably be received poorly. But if you’re gifting it to someone who loves this sort of thing, The Dinner Detective is a top Dallas experience (and a great date night activity). You’ll laugh, you’ll dine, you’ll accuse and perhaps be accused yourself, and most importantly, you’ll make it out alive to enjoy the rest of your gifts.
Popstroke
Located in The Colony, Popstroke makes for such a memorable put-put golf experience, Tiger Woods became an investor in 2020. Grab a day pass and enjoy two mini-golf courses, outdoor gaming, a kid’s playground, ice cream parlor, and a full-service restaurant. No need to make a reservation, you can buy your tickets same-day, in-person or online with adult passes going for just $30.
Xtreme Xperience
Gift a racing session for someone with a need for speed. At Texas Motor Speedway, they’ll get behind the wheel of an exotic car and a professional driver will teach them how to handle the vehicle and track like the pros. This bucket list experience starts at $249.
Dallas Glass Art
Glass blowing fuses creativity with science and offers artists the opportunity to create something from start to finish. With options for public or private classes, the two-hour class covers the art’s history and safety precautions before the fire is lit and your loved one is shaping their own cup or paperweight.
World Springs Spa
The World Springs Spa is the latest rage in DFW. The outdoor facility features dozens of warm and cold mineral springs that are meant to improve your mental and physical health. There are fire pits for cooler days (and nights), and the staff can bring you drinks and food. Watch a video we made about the experience. Gift cards are available for that special someone who needs to unwind.
Gameshow Battle Room
Always wanted to be on Supermarket Sweep, The Price Is Right, or Family Feud? This experience merges all of our favorite gameshows, complete with a host and a dj to make the experience even more realistic. After splitting up into two teams, your guests can work together for the chance to crown their team gameshow champion.
READ MORE: Gift these experiences for one-of-a-kind holiday presents
Dallas Holiday Market Sip & Shop
Dallas Holiday Market Sip & Shop takes place on December 14 from 2 to 6 p.m. Over 25 vendors will be in attendance selling items ranging from jewelry to candles, and admission is free for people of all ages. Restaurants and lawn games are available on site, and the event is dog-friendly as well.
Holiday Bazaar Vendor Market at Lakewood Brewing Company
Hosted by NTX Vintage Markets, the Holiday Bazaar Vendor Market at Lakewood Brewing Company features a variety of local vendors selling food, beverages, handcrafted gifts, and more. The event takes place on December 15 beginning at 12 p.m. Admission is free.
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Staff Picks: Our Personal Favorite Gifts to Give (or Get!)
Joi Louviere, DFW Community Editor
Go Easy
This is a great place for fun cannabis-based gifts and supplies, like delicious gummies and unique lighters.
Flea Style
This boutique has women’s clothing, jewelry, game-day swag, and a hat bar that lets you embellish your own wide-brim hat.
1890 Marketplace
This shop is my go-to for really nice spices and oils.
MKT
MKT is a large boutique that features various local designers of clothes, shoes, and accessories.
Katie Serrano, DFW Political Correspondent
Deep Vellum Books
Deep Vellum is an awesome little indie book store and publishing house in Deep Ellum. They have an incredible poetry section, serve coffee, have literary clubs to join, a knowledgable staff that has great recommendations for whatever you may be looking for, and even a sweet old pup named Jasper that’s around for pets.
Favor the Kind
Favor the Kind in Lower Greenville has everything you could think of for your holiday shopping. From cute sweaters, to Taylor Swfit ornaments, to delicious smelling candles, it’s a great local shop to wander into and browse around.
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The Best Christmas Tree Farms in Dallas-Fort Worth
There’s more to shop for than just gifts. In case you still need a fresh Christmas tree, we’ve rounded up some of the best farms in the area.
Shooting Star Ranch of Texas
4878 FM2736, Campbell
Shooting Star Ranch has three main varieties of Christmas trees: Leyland Cypress, Arizona Cypress, and pre-cut Fraser Fir. They have several sub-varieties of Leyland and Arizona Cypress available as well. Plus, they offer free hayrides, making it a family-friendly experience for everyone involved.
North Haven Gardens
7700 Northaven Road, Dallas
North Haven Gardens sells Christmas trees throughout the holiday season, though little information is listed on their website regarding available varieties and prices. The store is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for tree and gardening purchases. For additional insight, call North Haven directly at 214-363-5316. They also have a café on site, Ralph & Rose, which sells an assortment of fresh food and beverages.
Hemingway Hill
11656 County Road 309, Terrell
Hemingway Hill sells both Nordmann Fir and Fraser Fir Christmas trees, in addition to wreaths and fresh garland from partner fields in Alpine, Washington. Trees and wreaths are available for purchase at the farm in Terrell, as well as at the Dallas Farmers Market.