Don’t let the beaches and warmer temperatures fool you; the Gulf Coast Capital is a fantastic location to get your holiday celebration on!

Here in Corpus Christi, we pride ourselves on our selection of small businesses and we encourage everyone, locals and visitors alike, to shop local. We’ve got a list of some small businesses with great gift options for everyone on your list – the fashionista, the aesthetic and home décor aficionado, and even something for the foodie in your life.

The perfect gift awaits…

 

For the fashion and art lover:

They say music is like food for the soul and Hybrid Records has some great vinyl to add to your collection. With an eye for creating a community around the passion to discover and create art, Hybrid Records prides itself on its unique selection of vintage record collections and new vinyl from indie artists and labels. If you've got a vintage slinger in your life, look no further than 20/20 Vintage or Chels Marie Boutique. Both boutiques offer unique finds and treasures from past decades. And with all these shops located in Downtown Corpus Christi, don't forget to stop by Lucy's Snackbar for a warm cup of hot cocoa or coffee.

You might consider a gift that’s bright, bold, beautiful, and full of shine! If so, then Sew Bonita is the place for you. Here you can find a colorful array of clothing, jewelry, food, and accessories that represent the richness of Mexican culture while enjoying conversations and great music.

For the lover of handmade items:

If you or someone on your list loves dainty jewelry, check out Lavender and Lee, located at Made in Corpus Christi, or at one of the many pop-up markets in town. Choose from pieces made with copper, gold, resin, botanical plants, and natural raw stones to achieve a sophisticated yet earthy feel. All items are unique and handmade, so you get a one-of-a-kind piece!

Speaking of handmade items, we have just the place for functional and contemporary pieces that will make a fantastic gift for the unique décor lover. Coast your way over to K Space Contemporary, a local art gallery showcasing contemporary work from local and regional artists. Here, you will find ceramics, woven pieces, jewelry, prints, clothing, and more in their expansive gift shop.

For the ones who love Corpus Christi:

Stop by Made in Corpus Christi for items with Corpus-specific icons and logos made by local designers that reflect their style and take on our city. You can also find an assortment of goods designed, crafted, and/or created by makers right here in the Coastal Bend. Choose from t-shirts, decals, candles, jewelry, food items, and so much more.

 

Now that you’ve had a full day of holiday shopping, take a break and soak up the beauty of our beloved city. We’ve got lots of holiday activities, so make sure to pencil them in to make the most of your visit!

 

The Corpus Christi Ballet brings a spectacular performance of the popular holiday classic, “The Nutcracker,” to the American Bank Center’s stage. Featuring a cast of over 100, lavish scenery, dazzling costumes, exciting characters, and music by the Corpus Christi Ballet Orchestra, this performance is truly an unforgettable experience.

Also at the American Bank Center is a festive and fun annual indoor ice-skating experience. Coastal Christmas is the perfect winter wonderland in South Texas to bring the whole family. Kids of all ages will enjoy the indoor ice-skating and holiday-themed arena, including refreshments, photo ops, and holiday characters.

Boat Parades are another fun-filled option for your holiday visit, and the Coastal Bend offers two. Watch downtown Corpus Christi come to life as boats gather at the Marina to compete for the most festive vessel during the Illuminated Boat Parade. Hundreds of lights, a parade, and locals spreading holiday cheer make this event a must during your stay!

Light up the night on the Island at Marker 37, the premier destination for fishing, boating, food, events, and live music, made even more special by La Posada Parade. This South Texas tradition is making its appearance in Corpus Christi with fun for the whole family. In addition to the parade with festively lit boats, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be watching from Marker 37 as the U.S. Marines help Santa’s elves collect new, unwrapped toys, and Christmas carolers fill the air with classic carols. There’s also a DJ, a live band, face painting, and hot chocolate on the Sunset Deck.

 

Peppermint Lane is another shopping option, but this one has a little twist! In the 1960s, Chaparral Street was the main destination for shopping, and now, during the holiday season, the area is jazzed up with holiday lights and décor to celebrate the start of the holiday shopping season.

The South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is bringing the lights and sounds of Christmas as part of its annual “Holly Days” event.  All original exhibits are available to guests, but the 20-foot live, lighted fir tree, accompanied by lighted, fabric-wrapped trees and candy canes throughout the garden truly brings the Christmas spirit to life, especially at night. The popular Hay Maze is transformed from its fall theme to Christmas décor, and families can enjoy photo ops with Santa and all the décor that surrounds the area.

Holiday magic is truly in the air in Corpus Christi. Come coast your way in the Gulf Coast Capital this upcoming season.

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