Retail therapy…Christmas edition!
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If you’re like me, the list of people you need to buy Christmas gifts for is long, and you have no idea where to start.
With Christmas slowly creeping up on us, I’m starting to plan where to go to get some great gifts.
Whether you’re looking for something one-of-a-kind and Canberra-made, or you’re trying to find a way to go Christmas shopping for the kids (without them seeing), check out our guide to retail therapy, Christmas edition!
The Canberra Distillery Christmas Pop-Up (Westfield Woden)
Take some much-needed ‘you’ time and visit the Canberra Distillery Christmas Pop-Up! Westfield members can visit the pop-up to redeem a free drink and sample the distillery’s delicious range of gin. Not only is this a break from the silly season, but you can also knock out some Christmas shopping and find a gin for someone in your life!
When: Friday to Sunday until 22 December, during extended centre hours.
Where: Westfield Woden, Phillip.
Price: Free for Westfield Members
More details here.
Christmas Workshops (Marketplace Gungahlin)
If that grocery shopping list for Christmas Day is growing and you need to get started, book the kids in for a Christmas workshop! While you start on that list, your partner can supervise the little ones working on some sweet treats. Crafts like decorating melting snowman cookies and making a Christmas candy wreath will keep them entertained while getting them in the festive spirit.
When: Until Friday 20 December, 11 am – 2 pm.
Where: Marketplace Gungahlin, 30 & 33 Hibberson Street
Price: Free
Find out the workshops and book them here.
Children’s Santa Workshop (Canberra Outlet)
If you need to do some Christmas shopping, but can’t let the kids see, bring your shopping buddy and make a stop at Santa’s workshop in the Canberra Outlet. While you duck off to buy some presents, the kids can enjoy a range of free Christmas crafts and creations. Think card making, biscuit decorating and more! This can also be a productive trip, with their creation potentially making a perfect gift for a loved one.
When: Saturday 14 until Tuesday 24 December, 11 am-2 pm daily, extended trading hours
Where: Canberra Outlet, Fyshwick
How much: Free
More information here.
Late-Night Christmas shopping (National Library Bookshop)
For all those book lovers out there, don’t miss out on this one! Certain items have been discounted up to 50 per cent off, meaning you can grab a stack of books to gift this season, and maybe a gift for yourself! Santa’s helpers will also be around to wrap any gifts you buy, for the low price of a gold coin donation to the library. If you’re wanting to take a break from all the shopping, head to the foyer and enjoy an author talk and book signing by fantasy fiction author Isobelle Carmody.
When: Thursday 5 December, 9 am -8 pm.
Where: National Library bookshop, Parkes
Price: Book price varies
Head to their website for more information.
Christmas Shopping Night (Trove Canberra)
Connect directly with Canberra makers, artists and designers on this Christmas shopping night. Enjoy a luxurious night out with drinks and nibbles, and shop an array of high-quality, locally crafted goods, like handmade jewellery, scented candles, cosy knitwear and original artwork. Find the perfect unique gift for your loved one, that you can proudly say is Canberra made!
When: Friday 6 December, 5 pm – 7 pm.
Where: Trove Canberra, 25 Dickson Place, Dickson
Price: Items vary
More details here.
Festive Lane Markets (Canberra Centre)
Who doesn’t love a good Christmas market? The Canberra Centre is hosting a Festive Lane market so you can get your fix and some special one-of-a-kind gifts.
Dress up in your best Christmas outfit and sample festive foods, browse stalls offering handmade crafts, and unique gifts and sing along to live festive music. Santa will also be making an appearance across the weekend… which the littlest elves in your life will love!
When: Friday 6 until Sunday 8 December, varying times
Where: Canberra Centre, city walk, near the big Christmas tree
How much: Free entry
More information here.
Santa’s Breakfast (Westfield Woden)
If your kids can’t get enough of the man in red, book them in for a magical breakfast! They’ll enjoy a good feed, before being entertained with Christmas-themed performances. While they’re enjoying the show(with your partner keeping watch) you can do some quick shopping before the mall gets busy. Seats are limited, so make sure you book early. This one’s only for Westfield members, but membership is free.
When: Sunday 8 and Saturday 14 December, 8:30 am and 10:00 am sessions.
Where: Westfield Woden, Phillip
Price: $10 per child
Check out their website for more details.
Christmas Shopping Evening (The Malbon)
If you’re not based in Canberra, don’t worry – there’s something for you too! Wander through The Malbon in Bungendore with some bubbly on hand, and explore antiques, collectables, homewares, and local artisans’ products. Grab some dinner while you’re here at Eric’s food van, before diving back into shopping! Once you’ve got your gifts in hand, get them wrapped for you on-site. It sounds like the perfect excuse for a road trip.
When: 12 December, from 5 pm.
Where: 2 Malbon Street, Bungendore
Price: Items vary
Check out their website to see their products.
Feature image: The Canberra Distillery. Credit: Darcy Oliver.
