Where To Shop Local This Holiday Season

Winter is coming. 

The calendar is marked by several holidays involving FOOD… and lots of it. As seasonal shoppers go crazy filling their carts — overindulging on turkeys, hams, and roasts — we often forget about the importance of shopping local. 

People are fond of reciting various slogans, preaching the importance of shopping local to anyone who will bother to listen. Instead of shouting it like a street barker, this holiday season, it’s time to follow through and actually put your money back into the community around The Abby.

Why? 

Because, independent owners employ our neighbors. Ownership and management may even live in The Abby themselves.

Don’t forget: for a small business owner, every dollar counts. Embrace the feeling of giving this holiday season by decking your dinners out with food from the best of Boston! 

Boston Public Market 

It’s open year round, but regardless, feel free to navigate through 40 artisans and food producers. The central building at Haymarket offers large picnic-style tables for families. 

This fall, sample seasonal open-air fruit and vegetables that are set up just outside the structure. There are also numerous harvest parties and fall festivities available to all residents and visitors alike. 

Curio Spice Co. 

If you’re looking to spice things up a bit, Curio Spice Co. is the place to find inspiration in the kitchen. Beside their namesake, the location sells pantry staples and even offers cooking classes. The brick-and-mortar location also smells absolutely amazing. The shop offers great gift packages for those who cook, grill, or enjoy tea. 

Haymarket Bargain Basement 

This Boston staple is one of the country’s oldest open-air markets. On Fridays and Saturdays, get a taste of all the fresh produce and homemade goodies you can find. 

Nestled in the heart of our historic downtown, Haymarket Bargain Basement is a place where visitors can connect with culture and history. Customers can also pick up affordable produce, some of which are the lowest priced in New England. 

Union Oyster House

Starting November 1st, oysters are officially in season. You can’t get much fresher than the historic Union Oyster House. Since opening in 1826, it’s among the oldest operating restaurants in the United States. 

Named a National Historic Landmark in 2003, the menu still consists of New England fare, with the servings locally-sourced. Oyster happy hours are an easy way to sample these scrumptious treats at a low price.