Top 10 Local Gifts from Minnesota for the Holidays

When you’re shopping for the holidays, you want that “just right” gift – one that’s unique, special, and fits your friend or loved one. Whether you’re sending presents in the mail or shopping for someone who “has it all,” here are our top 10 gifts from Minnesota.

1. Tey Art alpaca socks | For cozy toes
Warm, soft, and comfortable socks are made from alpaca yarn handcrafted by Peruvian artisans. They’re direct-sourced by locally based Tey Art so the makers can be paid a fair price for their work.

2. Adam Turman t-shirts | Perfect to mail
If you’re mailing a gift, keep presents small and light – such as a local t-shirt. Local artist Adam Turman’s prints feature bright colors and Minnesota icons like Paul Bunyan and Pillsbury’s Poppin’ Fresh. Selection varies by store, while supplies last.

3. Local cheese | Fun host gift
For a host gift, bring a delicious local cheese. We like the award-winning sheep’s milk Big Woods Blue from Shepherd’s Way Farms and Redhead Creamery’s Little Lucy Brie that really sings when paired with your favorite local jam or preserves.

4. Rapha Farms goat milk soap | A gift of luxury
Taking time for self-care during the holidays is essential. These beautiful, luxurious soaps are made with gentle, hydrating goat milk harvested from owner Karen’s own small herd.

5. Wild rice | Gifts for a former Minnesotan
Minnesota-cultivated wild rice from Indigenous-owned Red Lake Nation makes a great base for any number of dishes. Edible, local, healthy – great for someone who used to live in Minnesota. Check out our recipes for wild rice pilaf and wild rice hot dish!

6. Jules Loft wild bird feeders | Present that packs well when traveling
If you’re traveling for the holidays, you’ll appreciate a gift that’s easy to pack. These handmade bird feeders make elegant gifts for bird-lovers and nature-lovers alike and don’t take up much space in your suitcase.

7. Ames Farm honey | Gift for a foodie
There are countless ways to use honey in the kitchen, from sweetening baked goods to topping biscuits, sandwiches, and more. Ames honey comes in distinct varieties each flavored by the particular prairie wildflower the bees harvest from.

8. Aromatherapy diffuser | Gift to Lessen Stress
Essential oil diffusers from SunLeaf Naturals are made locally in Waconia. If your gift recipient has a busy schedule, clarysage-lavender will soothe and calm, while orange-ginger is energizing and uplifting.

9. Local bison summer sausage | Present for the meat lover
The Eichten name has been synonymous with local bison for over 40 years. This lean and flavorful smoked summer sausage is perfect for cheese plates, appetizer spreads, and sandwiches.

10. Local chocolates and treats | Universally loved
Locally crafted chocolate treats, such as those from B.T. McElrath and Groveland Confections, pack well for traveling, can be a host gift or holiday present, and may be shared (or hoarded) by the recipient.

Whether you want gifts from Minnesota to send abroad, use as a host gift, or give as a holiday present, there are a number of thoughtful options at your local Lakewinds.

This post was updated in November, 2023.