As has become tradition, and apparently a last minute tradition at that with just 5 days to go until Christmas and Hannukah already begun, we’ve pulled together a list of gift ideas that should fit into any stocking or sombrero. Plus, remember the 12 days of Christmas? Jan. 6th (Kings Day) offers another opportunity for gift giving!
Mermaids Market
Don’t miss the last Mermaid’s Market for 2014 at Plaza Camaron, Dec. 20th from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. This ongoing first and third Saturday tradition, from about mid-October through April 18, 2015, showcases local artists with items that frequently range from glass sculptures and ornaments to photography, upcycled amazing garments, jewelry, and recycled art creations. I’m set on giving a recycled tire toucan to somebody, so watch out! Plus, the Mermaids should be back at the Plaza on Jan. 3rd so there’s time to get those Kings Day gifts in too!
Los Curios
Mi Casa, Fabi’s, Eddie’s, Lino’s…and much more in the area of Los Curios (former road to La Cholla and now connecting with the road past the Convention Center). If you haven’t been to los Curios (Rodeo Drive, “Shacks”) for a while, you’ve been missing out! The area continues to welcome new shops, and a couple of recently opened and/or rediscovered favorites include Mi Casa (Yes, by the same folk who brought us Casa Bonita a while back), Fabiola’s resort wear (right next door to Mi Casa), and Eddie Wharez Diseños Casa y Jardín right near the train tracks. Plus, stops in between present shoppers with a wonderful array of ironwood sculptures, painted alebrijes from Oaxaca, glasses and pitchers with blue edges (a personal favorite at Lino’s), and more!
Cholla Bay
As long as we’re on the road to the Convention Center, continue on out to Cholla Bay and swing by Xochitl’s (Sally’s) over the weekend to check out some of the beautiful paintings and funky skeleton aprons available for gifts. While you’re there, be sure to get a sweet roll and then head on over to JJ’s for a “No Sniveling” gift or two.
Calle Zaragoza & Mercedes
Back in the Old Port, a wonderful secret and treasure trove of art awaits along Calle Zaragoza (just turn at the corner by Beach Bum). In addition to tasty treats such as ice-cream, yogurt, seafood (Blue Marlin), and coffee (Puerto Viejo café) located along the route, Gallery Bermejo is there just past the church, and on the next block you may even work your way into El Farol art gallery and candle workshop which is right next to Jesus Mata’s gallery. Rounding the corner will take you to the main road out of the Port and to another not to be missed spot in town… Mercedes!
Road into town
Villa Alemán just north of town, of artist Victor Alemán, is an exciting spot to find gifts ranging from large tiled patio sets to paintings and his amazing aerosol creations.
Tequila
Taking a break from art pieces, let’s wrap up with tequila. Curiously, Puerto Peñasco has a number of tequila offerings and most can be found at Tequila Factory along Blvd. Juarez. There you’ll find Manny’s flavored tequilas, plus Tequila Peñasco’s citrusy Diva offering, and even Roger Clyne’s award winning Mexican Moonshine.
However you celebrate, be it with tequila, café or art – Happy Holidays to all and once again enjoy your holiday shopping locally!