For the Little Kids
Two Otters (Downtown) – A fantastic toy shop downtown where you’ll find board games, stuffies, books, and educational toys. Shelby’s Snack Shack was one of the first games we played with the kids and we still love it!
Bolen Books (Hillside) – One of our favourite local bookstores, and not just for books. They have puzzles, games, craft kits, and plenty of giftable treasures for everyone on your list.
Momease (Hillside) – For practical, well-made gifts for babies, toddlers, and expectant parents, Momease is always a win. Their team is incredibly helpful, and their toy selection is full of developmentally appropriate favourites. (My son’s obsession with the Mentari shopping cart is still going strong!)
Modern Baby (Uptown) – A beautiful Uptown shop with a standout selection of kids’ clothing, toys, and gifts. This Mentari car set is on my three-year-old’s list this year, and I also picked up a few Happy Hippo Bubble Bath Bomb Dust pouches for stocking stuffers. Use code littlelocal for 15% off until Dec 1st (excludes Maileg, Disana, and Huttelihut).
Thistle & Wren (Fernwood) – This sweet boutique carries special holiday outfits, everyday pieces, and a great Preloved section. You’ll also find kids’ shoes, toys, books, and even a few goodies for the grownups. Use code littlelocal for 15% your order until Dec 20 on orders over $75. Excludes Jellycat and Ollie Ella, and all sales final.
Finn & Izzy (Oak Bay) – A bright, cheerful boutique stocked with adorable Jellycats, great toys, and stylish kids’ clothing — plus a lovely selection of homewares that make perfect gifts for the grownups, too. It’s one of those shops where you always find something special.
Bishops Family Cycles (Downtown) – If a new bike is on the wish list, head downtown. Their kids’ bike lineup is fantastic, and their customer service is equally great.
Mother.lifestyle (Langford) – A beautifully curated shop filled with playful potion kits, cozy clothing, and thoughtful gifts for little ones. It’s a great spot for imaginative, hands-on presents that spark creativity, plus plenty of great finds for moms, too.
Whistle & Flute (Duncan + online) – Cute, locally designed, gender-free apparel that kids big and small love. They’ve also opened a studio with a print shop in Duncan, making each piece feel even more special. Use code LITTLELOCAL for an additional 10% during their black friday sale and 15% off after that.
Beany Bites – The best smoothie bites on the market are made right here in Victoria. You can grab them at Urban Grocer and select local farmers markets, or order online. A great (and delicious) stocking stuffer for busy little snackers.
For the Big Kids
Bolen Books (Hillside) – Far more than a bookstore, Bolen has a great range of Klutz craft kits, graphic novels, favourite series, and hands-on activity books, perfect for big kids who love to read, build, or create.
Good Vibe Space (Downtown) – A colourful, joy-filled shop featuring local makers. Pick up art prints, funky earrings, charm bracelets, or book a spot at their Art Bar to make something special of your own.
BC Hobbies (Hillside) – The place to go for the most impressive LEGO sets, 3D printing material, model kits, and hobby essentials. If your big kid is into building, this is the destination.
Kaboodles (Downtown)– Their shop has games, plushies, science kits, and lots of cool finds for older kids too. Great for stocking stuffers or that just-right gift.
Puzzle Lab (Downtown) – For the kid who appreciates a challenge (and beautiful design), these locally made wooden heirloom puzzles are truly something special.
Thistle & Wren (Fernwood) – While known for littles, there are gems here for bigger kids too, like fun “learn to draw” books, Jellycat favourites, and sweet stocking stuffers. Use code littlelocal for 15% your online order until Dec 20 on orders over $75. Excludes Jellycat and Ollie Ella, and all sales final.
Bishops Cycles (Downtown) – If a new bike or helmet has been requested this year, Bishops has the best selection and guidance to get them cruising safely and confidently.
For the Grown-Ups
Folklore Flowers (Fairfield) – A new local flower shop featuring gorgeous, artful arrangements. Flowers are always a thoughtful gift for any occasion.
Resthouse (Uptown) – Whether you’re after a new mattress, new pillow, or something cozy to wrap up in, Resthouse has you covered (literally). Their ultra-soft organic cotton robes by Coyuchi make an especially lovely gift.
Puzzle Lab (Downtown)– For the puzzler in your life, these wooden heirloom puzzles are locally made, beautifully designed, and seriously impressive. Find them on Government Street, downtown.
Meraki (Uptown) – A lovely boutique at Uptown carrying timeless, beautifully made pieces including the coveted Horse handbags.
Footloose (Downtown) – Glerup slippers. If you know, you know. These felted wool slippers are cozy, durable, and easy to slip on and off.
Chocolate Project (Downtown)– For the chocolate lover, this downtown gem on Blanshard has a world-class selection of bean-to-bar chocolate. You can’t go wrong with a bar from SOMA (Toronto), my personal favourite.
Outway (Online)– Bold, ultra-comfortable performance socks designed right here in Victoria. With fun patterns and seriously good quality, they make an easy, practical gift for the grownups.
ANIÁN (Downtown) – A Victoria-based clothing brand turning recycled natural fibres into timeless, West Coast-inspired pieces made to last. Their sustainably made wool shirts and outerwear are perfect for everyday wear. I live in my Loft jacket during the colder months!
VI Plant Shop (Downtown) – Pop into this lush downtown spot for a gorgeous selection of houseplants and stylish pots. It’s a bright, welcoming place to find greenery and advice for every level of plant lover.
