In the midst of gift-giving season, now is the ideal time to purchase the perfect gifts for those on your holiday shopping list. This season, consider something special, memorable, and unique—a Maine agricultural gift. From beautifully packaged maple syrup to handmade mittens knitted with local fiber, there is something fitting for friends and family of all ages and interests. You can shop for Real Maine agricultural gifts in many locations statewide and online:
Farm Stores
- Stop at a year-round farm store to browse the selection of Maine agricultural products. You’ll be surprised by the variety of what’s available at many farm stores. Local honey, salsas, sauces, dried beans and syrups are just a few of the products you’ll find. Some farm stores, like Eureka Farms in Palmyra, will take your tasty picks and assemble a beautiful gift basket. Gift baskets are perfect for a holiday host gift to send to an out-of-state family member. The Little Cheese Shop in Pittsfield offers pre-made holiday cheese boxes.
Craft Shows and Makers Markets.
Holiday season also means craft show season. With shows taking place throughout each region, find one in your area. Seek out local craft shows to find Real Maine agricultural gifts from festive wreaths to handmade soaps. Don’t forget to search Real Maine to find farms and producers to explore. There you’ll find vendors like Bartlettyarn or Seacolors for the craft lovers on your list. Or visit Maine Made’s Fiber and Fiber Arts page for artisan-made apparel, gifts, and arts. Supporting Maine fiber farmers and artists protect our agricultural heritage.
Winter Farmers’ Markets.
While tucked inside during the winter months to avoid chilly temperatures and snowy weather, Maine’s indoor farmers’ markets offer variety and amazing choices for holiday gifts. Try this gift idea for the snack enthusiast in your life: charcuterie board fixings, including assorted meats and cheeses, breads made with local grains, honey, and jams.
Easy Online Ordering.
Cozy up on the couch with a glass of wine (Real Maine wine, of course!) when online shopping for agriculture gifts. Purchase lovingly packaged and shipped maple gifts from places like Hilltop Boilers or Passamaquoddy Maple (offering free shipping for orders over $50). Spring Break Maple will ship freshly made maple candies straight to your door. Maine Grains offers a range of specialty flours and other products online for delivery to your favorite baker. Or, consider purchasing a CSA for someone who’d greatly appreciate receiving locally grown and produced vegetables, flowers, meats, cheeses, and more throughout the year. If you’re shopping for a family that enjoys summer adventures, you can even purchase tickets for some of Maine’s agricultural fairs online for a fun family gift! For the gardeners in your life, consider purchasing a webinar bundle from the UM Cooperative Extension. They offer bundles of webinars on topics such as gardening and maintaining an orchard, all on a sliding scale and perfect for a creative, last-minute gift!
Local Markets and Specialty Stores.
Look for Real Maine products in your local markets (such as Tradewinds), specialty stores (such as the Natural Living Center in Bangor or the Belfast Co-op), and many supermarkets. Real Maine beer, wine, cider, and cheeses are fantastic items to bring to a gathering, and a much-appreciated gift. Also don’t forget about your local breweries and tasting rooms! A gift certificate to try a new destination will offer your gift recipient an activity to remember.
Wherever you choose to shop this holiday season, keep your eyes out for Real Maine agricultural gifts. Not only will you be supporting Maine’s agricultural producers, but you’ll be gifting something special and memorable.
