Ultimate Guide to Holiday Shopping in Raleigh

‘Tis that time of the year again! Grab ya list and pack your bright spirits y’all because Raleigh offers a vibrant and diverse shopping experience, especially during the holiday season!

 From charming boutiques to festive markets, the city has something for everyone on your gift list. Below is your ultimate guide to holiday shopping in Raleigh, complete with recommendations for the best holiday markets.

We know and understand that you snapped up a few deals during the Black Friday sales. So now turn your attention to gift buying in some cute local Raleigh stores.

We have some giveaways going now with our 12 Days of Christmas (Dec 1 – 12) where you can win some gift cards at some of them! Now here are some of our favorites for holiday shopping in Raleigh.

Christmas shopping in Downtown Raleigh

Start your holiday shopping journey in the heart of downtown Raleigh, where you’ll find a plethora of boutique stores offering unique and locally made items.

Downtown Raleigh covers the areas of Capital District, Fayetteville Street, Glenwood South, Moore Square, Warehouse District, Seaboard + Person Street. Places we love for Holdiay shopping in downtown:

• The Flourish Market in the Warehouse District is one of our favorite local places to shop in downtown Raleigh. With over 400 gifts at $20 and under, you can easily find something for everyone on your list – as they have something for all ages. Flourish Market is a partner of our 12 Days of Christmas Giveaway with a $250 gift card – running right now!
• Black Friday Market, is a curation of products from black owned businesses, creators, and artists. You’ll find some great Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers here.
• Deco Raleigh: A chic boutique featuring a curated selection of gifts, home goods, and accessories, many of which are crafted by local artisans. We love the NC products on sale in Deco, and often purchase something from here for our clients who go through us when purchasing a home in Raleigh.
• Curate Raleigh has a lovely selection of items from over 60 local artists which rotate monthly. They have a unique collection of handmade goods which includes candles, jewelry, and homemade sauces.
• Videri Chocolate Factory is ideal for sweet gifts, gift boxes, and stocking stuffers. We love Videri as its locally made artisan chocolate that is sustainably sourced and free of nasties. Rest here with a cup of coffee from Black & White Roasters. They’re in the same building and I can tell you the chocolate and coffee smells are intoxicating.

• Unorthodox Vintage is a vintage and secondhand clothing store that pops with color and style and is a fun place to shop, especially with your teen.
• I usually pic up something cute – a candle, crystals or jewelry, for stocking stuffers at The Pop-Up Shops on Martin St which provide affordable retail space in a desirable location to minority and women-owned businesses.
• Gathering Gallery on E Hargett St features products from local artists and makers and employs adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Find fun, quirky, off-the-beaten-path items from brands that are local, NC, fair trade, nonprofit, women owned, BIPOC owned, LGTBQ+ owned, and eco-friendly.
• Edge of Urge in North Person St specializes in handmade and independent designer clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories. We usually pop in every Christmas for holiday shopping when we attend the Oakwood Candlelight tour. We love to stop into Pelagic Bottle Shop before it too for a wee drink! See more in our guide to North Person St.
• Across the road from The Edge of Urge (and same owners) is the funky Unlikely Professionals, a Men’s General Store offering a full selection of clothing, accessories, shoes, and apothecary, plus the full beer and wine bar! 
• Hunky Dory in Seaboard is perfect for the vinyl lover on your Christmas list. It’s a fun place to shop as they also have a bar selling local beers, ciders and seltzers. So, relax a little while you choose your tunes. See more vinyl stores in Raleigh here.

North Hills Shopping District

Head to North Hills, a premier shopping and entertainment destination, for a mix of high-end retailers and specialty shops. Some highlights include:

• La Maison is a home boutique offering furnishings, accessories, gifts and interior design services. Consider the next candle in La Maison’s signature fragrance line, La Maison Noël, which highlights the warm, woodsy, and moody feeling of the holidays.
• Woodhouse Spa is ready for that special someone on your Christmas gift list. They have luxurious spa treatments with special deals. (Also, a giveaway partner, you can read about those specials in our giveaway post.)
• The shelves inside Learning Express are stocked with lots of unique and classic toys and those that have passed the test of time, plus the latest and greatest toys. You can get personalization’s and gift wrap for free, meaning hassle-free shopping!
• Paper Source is a unique retailer of specialty paper, custom invitations, gift wrap, craft supplies and other products. We love their collection of note cards, walls lined in beautiful fine papers from around the world, scrapbooking and crafting supplies.
• Quail Ridge Books Perfect for book lovers, this independent bookstore offers a diverse selection of titles, including bestsellers and local authors.

• For the men in your life who like lux style, head to Lile’s Clothing Store for classic gents clothing with a wide range apparel reflecting modern trends and style. Ask for Martin, he’s our favorite sales associate in Raleigh.
• Shop from local brands at the Holiday pop-up “Makers on Main” featuring awesome handbags by Designed for Joy, Green Rabbit Plants, Hellbent, Haute Boutik plus more. Friday and Saturday; 10am-7pm, Sunday 12-5pm, every weekend through Christmas.
• Another fun holiday pop up at North Hills for Christmas 2023 is Bal Harbour Shops. These custom-built white shipping containers will house a curated collection of designer boutiques.

We have a full Holiday Gift Guide for North Hills with more great suggestions.

Village District

Explore the Village District (formerly Cameron Village), one of Raleigh’s oldest shopping areas, known for its charming atmosphere and diverse range of shops. Don’t miss:

• Great Outdoor Provision Co.: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, this store offers quality gear and clothing for camping, hiking, and more. A few of Craigs Christmas presents were from here last year.
• Uniquities: A boutique specializing in women’s fashion, featuring a carefully curated collection of clothing, shoes, and accessories. They also have one in North Hills.
• Onward Reserve: is for the men on your list who like a laid-back approach to luxury and unwavering quality with the motto “Live Authentically.” There is a bar inside and they play the football on the weekend with a comfy couch for you to sit and watch!

The Painted Tree, North Raleigh & Cary

We loved discovering the Painted Tree when visiting Beth’s Holiday and Christmas Store (a Christmas giveaway partner – $150 gift card)

Beth’s Christmas and Holiday Shop has a wonderful selection of holiday products that are modern glam, with a splash of tradition as well. It’s the perfect opportunity to dress your home in a festive spirit, buy Holiday gifts, and stocking stuffers. There are scores more stores inside the Painted Tree.

Painted Tree Boutiques is all about supporting local entrepreneurs and giving the local community a treasure trove of delightful things.

You could cover everyone on your Christmas list with their large selection of unique items, seasonal decor, cute clothing, shoes & jewelry, and gifts.

They have a location on Creedmoor Road in North Raleigh and crossroads Blvd in Cary (check out our guide to Downtown Cary)

Downtown Apex

IMO, downtown Apex has the best shopping street in Wake County. It’s filled with cute boutique and antique clothing stores as well as home décor stores.

In between are great places to rest with a coffee, something to eat, or a stronger drink in the later hours – no judgement if you want that for the earlier hours – it is the frantic holiday season after all!

• From a vibrant clothing range to elegant jewelry and fun gifts, Rose & Lee sells incredible brands that have their own mission of change and empowerment, from sustainability to human rights. It’s a favorite of mine in Wake County and last year I grabbed lots of cute stocking stuffers from here! Rose & Lee are giving away a $150 gift card in our Christmas giveaway and have generously offered 10% off for our readers for their holiday shopping – online or instore. Use Code THISISRALEIGH
• Apex Outfitters is a locally owned outdoor apparel and gear store.
• Bella + Mauve is a boho-inspired contemporary women’s clothing boutique that offers the latest fashion forward styles. We carry clothing, accessories, gifts, and jewelry at various price points. – Great store for teen girl gifts!
• Werking Design is for the home decor lovers. This store is filled with beautiful and unique treasures to make a house a home. – Lucky I left my credit card at home, i could have bout one of everything.

White Street, Wake Forest

Another cute downtown area to consider for your Holiday shopping in Wake County is Wake Forest. You can walk from one cute boutique store to another on White St. Like Apex, it’s also filled with restaurants, breweries, cafes and even a wine bar.

• The Cotton Company: Like the Painted Tree, this store over 60 booths housed in an old cotton warehouse is stocked with the latest styles and brands, as well as local, handmade artisan products ranging from pottery, candles, bath and body, to jewelry, sweet snacks, and signs. You can easily find something for everyone on your Christmas list.
• Southern Suds & Gifts: I recently bought several North Carolina focused gifts here for our clients. I love the cute range of handcrafted items, original art, customized jewelry, and more.
• White Street Boutique houses multiple local boutique collections under one roof. Each vendor brings their own unique collections into the store, creating diverse and unique merchandise. Great store for gifts for teen girls and young adults.
• West & Main is another cute boutique clothing store – it’s where boho meets western.

Johnston County (JoCo) for great Christmas Deals

Johnston County (JoCo) may be a little day trip, but it will be worth it for your Christmas shopping. Not only do they have cute downtowns with local stores, but they also have the Carolina Premium Outlets where you can grab deals on many brand name products.

I know it’s not local stores, but I understand there will be people on your Christmas list that want some of these Items and you’ll want to save money. You will here. (Visit JoCo is giving away a Kate Spade purse from the outlets in our giveaway!!)

The place I love the most in Johnston County for Christmas Shopping is DeWayne’s in Smithfield (near the outlets). Most enchanting was the Christmas Land, which features 10 themed rooms and over 70 uniquely decorated trees.

It was like we had walked into the North Pole. If Christmas is your THING, this is the reason alone for you to visit Johnston County during the Holiday season. We visited on our family Christmas day out in Johnston County last year and had a great time at this store.

We also liked The Southern Bostonian and the Hanky E Panky Soap Shop in Downtown Selma. And if you like Christmas Lights, Meadow Lights in Benson is the oldest and largest Christmas light display in Eastern North Carolina.

Holiday Markets in Raleigh

Raleigh comes alive with holiday markets during the festive season. These markets showcase local artisans and provide an opportunity to find unique gifts.

We share a lot these pop-up holiday markets in our weekend in Raleigh events guide (jump in our email list so you don’t miss it). Mark your calendar for:

• Boylan Heights Artwalk:  This neighborhood art walk often transforms into a holiday market, showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. We love walking around one of our favorite neighborhoods in Raleigh and looking at the local art on display. Tis a fun vibrant atmosphere. Grab a coffee from Rebus Works and a pastry from Unboulted Bread while there. On Sunday Dec 3; 12-5pm
• The 3rd annual Holiday Makrs Fest will be on Fayetteville St. in downtown Raleigh from 11am-6pm on December 2nd, 2023!
• The Holiday Market at NCMA with a selection of local artists in the plaza and live music. Browse the galleries, enjoy the museum park, and shop local! December 02, 2023, 11:00am-3:00pm
• Handmade Hanukkah Market, Dec 3, 2023, at Temple Beth Or 11am-3pm Jewish artisans will be selling their work including jewelry, baked goods, pottery, textiles, woodwork and more.
• Merry & Bright, A North Pole Market by Paper & Stars Studio at Historic Mordecai Park Saturday, December 09, 2023, 10:00am-3:00pm
• Cary Holiday Night Market: Fri. Dec. 15th 5-9p Old library site at 310 S Academy St. Cary, NC.
• Wool E Bull’s Winter Wonderland Night Market: Dec 2,9,14,15,19,20,21,22,23 Christmas light show, shopping, local handmade art and more at Durham Bulls Athletic Park
• Holiday Sip and Shop event at Wendell Falls. Tour gorgeous model homes while picking up last minute, unique gifts from local vendors – all while sipping on festive drinks to get you in the holiday spirit! December 09, 2023, 1:00PM-4:00PM
• Jolly Raleigh Holiday Market: December 9th (12-6pm) and 10th (12-5pm) at Iron Works for the perfect opportunity to sip local beer, shop for local treasures.
• 16th Annual St. Nicholas European Christmas Market: Sing, dance, dine, and shop in the European Christmas Market tradition! Friday Dec. 8 5-9 pm and Saturday Dec. 9 10 am – 5 pm Holshouser Building, NC State Fairgrounds Raleigh

Other Ideas for Christmas Shopping in Raleigh

Here are a few more ideas for your Christmas holiday shopping in Raleigh to consider:

• Dogwood Country Club (also a Christmas giveaway partner) fantastic range of golf apparel and accessories any golf lovers on your Christmas list will love from Lululemon-Dogwood branded shirts to hats and golf head covers. And any Raleigh local will love their Dogwood exclusive “Smathers and Branson Raleigh Skyline Belt “Raleigh Landmarks such as Dorton Arena, NC Museum of Art rings and the downtown skyline are hand-sticked onto the belt. 
• Steak of the Month Membership was super popular in our giveaways last year and they are back this year! Meat lovers will be thrilled to be gifted with a high-quality new cut of meat each month from the Butcher’s Market. (various locations) We love everything in this store! The $13 bottle of Malbec is smoother than Marvin Gaye’s voice.
• Blue Water Spa is a long-term partner of ours and also part of our giveaway. Of all the services we’ve tried and loved, I cannot stop raving about Emsella (all mothers will LOVE this heavenly gift), salt facial, and laser hair removal (throw out the razors for good!) Plus, they have a skin care range, gift cards and treatment for men too.
• Any 90s fans on your list? Out the Box Vintage on Hillsborough St Vintage apparel, sneakers and collectibles available for buying, selling, and trading. Almost all the products in this vintage store are from the 90s – the best era! (Live it Up Hillsborough has a gift package from 5 businesses in our Christmas Giveaway)
• We have not really explored Lafayette Village, so cannot give any personal recommendations, but it’s another place to consider for your holiday shopping if you live in North Raleigh.
• Don’t forget your local Hallmark Store – they are all locally owned and have a great range of gifts, stocking stuffers, and of course cards! Make sure you binge watch those Christmas Hallmark movies too! It’s a tradition of my daughter, Savannah and me.

That’s a Wrap

Raleigh’s holiday shopping scene is a delightful mix of local charm and festive spirit. Whether you’re exploring boutique-lined streets or perusing holiday markets, you’re sure to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones.

Happy shopping and don’t forget your Christmas wrap. Here are some more Christmas events in Raleigh for you:

• Best Christmas light displays in Raleigh
• The Dessertery in Downtown Raleigh is an all you can eat cafe filled with holiday treats
• The Raleigh Christmas Parade is an event not to miss.
• Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour – one of our favorite holiday events
• Your Christmas Bucket List – ideas for a fun holiday season
• Christmas in North Carolina ideas including the fun Polar Express (for the little kids)
• Best things to do in Raleigh for New Year’s Eve