"...in Whoville they say – that the Grinch's small heart grew three sizes that day."

The holiday season is full of joyous activities, from cookie baking to tree-trimming, caroling to writing to Santa, but perhaps the best, most wonderful activity is giving. The holidays are a time to gather together, to remember friends near and far, and to share the love and joy we all feel. The charming towns of the Adirondack Hub, nestled amid wilderness areas sparkling with snow, offer wonderful ways to give unique gifts and celebrate together. Here are a few places where you can find special items perfect for gift giving! Plus, by shopping local you keep business in hard-working communities, so you're also giving back to the community, too!

Pine Haven Cottage

When you tell someone you haven't been to Pine Haven Cottage yet, you hear things like, "It is amazing! 10/10 recommend!" or "It is one of my favorite shops in the whole Adirondacks," and then you jealously hear about all the charming items the shop has for sale. Pine Haven carries a bountiful, curated mixture of new items and vintage, including luxuriously scented candles, antique framed prints, locally crafted jewelry, books by Adirondack authors, baby gifts, and much, much more. It may not be a big shop, but the high quality more than makes up for it. It's the sort of shop that makes giving even more exciting and joyful!

The Towne Store

Located in Schroon Lake, The Towne Store has been a must-visit general store for more than 100 years! What can you find at this beloved downtown destination? A bit of everything, to be honest, and that's part of the fun! Maybe you want to give a gift for someone who you just haven't quite found the right thing for, in a great setting. Browsing at The Towne Store, which still features old hardwood floors and glass display cases from the good old days, means shelves full of locally-made candles and soaps, warm woolly socks and sweaters, Christmas ornaments, lake themed gifts, jewelry, and Adirondack home decor. You'll spend a lot of time saying, "look at this!" and filling your arms with stocking stuffers.

Paradox Brewery

In a world where we all have a lot of stuff, sometimes the best gift is a flavorful one. Maybe your dad loves to savor the flavors of a nutty ale, or your next-door neighbor keeps a map of all the breweries they've been to. Either way, the brewfans in your life will love receiving a tasty gift from Paradox Brewery. Renowned for unique flavors, ingredients, and Adirondack inspiration, Paradox's array of limited edition four-packs and growlers add warmth and fun to the holidays, while a gift card means the recipient can "craft" their own beer adventure.

Pine Cone Mercantile

Speaking of flavor, shoppers with giving in their hearts — and stomachs — should not miss Pine Cone Mercantile and North Woods Bread Co. in Schroon Lake. The shop is a dreamy combination of charming home decor and freshly baked deliciousness. Shop for elegantly rustic Christmas ornaments (always a good gift the recipient will remember you by!), handknit winter hats, luxurious bedding, wilderness themed drinkware, and more, alongside tempting displays of pies and tarts, cookies, breads, and cheesecake. Telling someone you love them by gifting them a lavish array of desserts isn't just fun, it's a nice way of treating them to something that is extra special!

One more way to give

While you're in the area soaking up the spectacular scenery, admiring cheerful Christmas light displays, and sipping cocoa, there's one more way to give something special: give to community food pantries. Schroon Lake and Minerva both have community food pantries that help locals in need, including children through a backpack program in Minerva. It's easy to help: stop by a local shop, such as the grocery store in Schroon, pick out a few goods such as personal hygiene items, canned soups, granola, breakfast cereal, etc., and drop it off at the food pantry! You can also donate directly if you're not in the area. Unlike the Grinch, your heart is already big, isn't it?

Plan your visit to the Adirondack Hub by exploring more shopping options, mouth-watering restaurants (gift cards to dine out are fun gifts, too!), and even seasonal special events. We're in the mood for holidays, love, and joy; join us!