Holiday Gift Guide 2025

Pearls for Pups

Earrings with a purpose. Pearls for Pups is a mother-daughter nonprofit started in the pursuit of helping dog rescues save as many lives as possible. Don’t know which color to choose? Try the mixed breed.

‘Family & Other Calamities’

Banner columnist Leslie Gray Streeter writes about a successful journalist returning to her hometown just as her biggest mistake becomes headline news in this vibrant, funny and heartfelt novel about facing the past, and its secrets, head-on.

Kids sketchbook

Packed with character and durability, this handmade journal is made for pocket-sized adventures, whether you’re at a beach, city park, zoo, or your own backyard.

Calming orange bergamot gift set

A bathing ritual is a simple way to cultivate self-care. This bath set comes complete with body butter, body scrub and bath salts.

Weird sodas

Hot dog water, kettle corn and toothpaste are just a few of the offbeat soda flavors you can find stocked at E.C. Pops. These bizarre beverages make a great gift for the kids and teens who never say no to a double-dog dare.

— Lillian Reed, Howard County reporter

Maryland-inspired treats

This Baltimore-made gift box includes all-natural, oven-baked treats like Chicken Crab & Corn, Duck Biscuits, Bison Jerky and a vanilla ice cream mix for your pup. Healthy, low-calorie and preservative-free, perfect for dogs of all sizes and ages.

Hand building pottery workshop

Learn the art of hand building in a two-hour pottery making session. Each participant will be guided in creating a one-of-a-kind mug or planter, choosing a glaze color for their finished work.

DIY flower ornament

Create an elegant keepsake with this pressed-flower ornament kit. Each set includes real blooms, clear acrylic shapes and easy-to-follow instructions, making it perfect for a cozy craft night or a thoughtful stocking stuffer for someone who loves nature and handmade touches.

Pepperly crunch

Discover bold flavor and irresistible texture with Pepperly Crunch by Pepperly Love, a savory condiment made with rich, roasted garlic, crispy shallots, red pepper flakes and olive oil.

Balmer cacao butter lip balm sampler pack

Balmer lip balm blends rich cacao butter with all-natural ingredients for soft, hydrated lips. Packaged in a compostable paper tube, it’s an eco-friendly essential that feels as good as it looks: simple, local, and beautifully made.

‘Hot Wax’

“Hot Wax” by M.L. Rio is “a propulsive father-daughter story” and a journey of self-discovery that “captures the joy and danger of rock ’n’ roll” through one woman’s reckless mission to make sense of the events that shattered her childhood.

Baltimore Harbor counting book

Count the boats (and seagulls, too) in this beautifully illustrated celebration of Baltimore’s busy harbor.

Rocklands Farm Winery

Located in Poolesville, Rocklands Farm Winery is a family-owned farm that produces handcrafted wines on a rotating menu. Options include reds, whites, rosé, sparkling and orange.

— Danielle Allentuck, sports reporter

Turn your house into art

There’s no place like home for the holidays. Commission a custom illustration of your Baltimore rowhome from Pop Baltimore. This local artist will turn your residence into cheerful greeting cards, postcards or sticker packs.

— Lillian Reed, Howard County reporter

‘Our Voices, Unmasked’

CHARM literary magazine’s first hardcover book is a collection of writing and artwork by Baltimore youths during the coronavirus pandemic.

Maryland pride, for your pup

Made in Pasadena, this reversible bandana designed by Bayside Doodle Co. features vibrant crab-and-cocktail motifs on one side and cheerful floral-box patterns on the other. Snap-on style for a secure fit and available in four sizes.

Blue crab blanket

Hyattsville-based artist Micah Morgan takes her inspiration from the Anacostia River near her home. The blankets are made to order, from a family-run knitting team in New Jersey.

Gold-plated lucky charm necklace

Whether you are born with it or seeking more of it, being lucky comes in streaks. This pendant is adorned with a lucky four-leaf clover and a lucky horseshoe. Wear it as a daily touchstone to remind you to look for the positive, and more positive will come. your way!

Early childhood music class

This immersive program in Annapolis for preschool and kindergarten-age kids features classes filled with singing, movement, instruments and play. Each session is designed to boost cognitive, social and physical development while giving parents a shared creative experience.

‘Unfurled’

For someone who believes decor should breathe as much as it looks good, “Unfurled” is a beautiful inspiration piece. Hilton Carter blends lush plant styling with home design to make “living” style.

All-natural treats

Wholesome ingredients, no additives. The treats from Baltimore Dog Bakery will make any pup happy.

Orioles baby onesie

Give em the bird, baby. This cheeky bodysuit is a nod to the beloved hometown O’s.

Charm City silk screen

Baltimore is full of history, icons and stories. This four-color silk screen poster illustrates the Bromo Seltzer Tower, Domino Sugars sign, Fells Point Thames Street, Patterson Park Pagoda and the famous city benches.

ICEE Machine

Treat kids to their very own slushie station at home. This fun ICEE machine lets them mix ice and syrup to make their favorite frozen drinks. Perfect for birthday parties, snow days, or any time they want a cool and colorful treat.

Beard kit

The Five O’ Clock beard kit has become my go-to for all my beard grooming needs. Local, products smell great, and at an affordable price point. And there are plants!

Laguiole (cheese utensils)

Girl dinner, you say? Gundalow has the cutlery set perfect for the busy working woman who wants a dinner of cheese, crackers, cut fruit and some candied nuts.

— Rona Kobell, Baltimore County reporter

Geometric latte mug

Co-created design with Betsy Martin from Not Jane Studio, this mug features a throwback geometric design.

‘No Sense in Wishing’

Lawrence Burney explores these profound interactions with incisive and energizing prose, offering us a personal and critical perspective on the people, places, music, and art that transformed him.

Old Bay journal

Celebrate the Old Line State with a Maryland-themed journal. Perfect for jotting trip notes, recipes, poetry, or Preakness picks. A witty, locally made gift for anyone who loves Maryland and a good dose of charm.

Old Bay collar

This Old Bay™ collar from Route One Apparel is a spicy statement piece for your dog. Featuring the iconic design, it’s sturdy, adjustable, and made for everyday adventures — a fun, local twist on a classic accessory.

Custom football handbag

A chic pigskin? This handcrafted purse is made from an authentic football and embellished with genuine leather metallic patches and gold rivet studs.

Magnesium lotion

The Calm Your A** Down Magnesium body lotion by SoBotanical helps soothe tired nerves and promotes relaxation.

— Sarah Walton, chief philanthropy officer

Snowball stand print

A print celebrating one of the summer’s greatest joys in Baltimore — snowballs! Printed on acid-free paper and signed by the artist, it arrives ready to frame and wrapped in a biodegradable sleeve, perfect for Baltimore nostalgia lovers and art enthusiasts alike.

Death by chocolate

Turn up the heat with Black Eyed Susan’s Death by Chocolate hot sauce. This Maryland-made blend combines velvety cocoa with fiery habanero peppers for a complex, smoky sweetness. A perfect stocking stuffer for spice lovers who crave something unexpected.

Maryland ID (for your pet)

Show your pup some state pride with the Maryland Pet ID Tag from TagsforHope. Fully customizable, this tag blends style and safety in one sleek design. A meaningful gift choice for dog owners who want security and personality in equal measure.

Floating forest art

Bring a little forest magic inside. This unique wall-hanging art piece pairs genuine cork bark with plush preserved moss and forest-inspired mushrooms. Zero upkeep, all mood. A standout pick for someone who loves nature with a side of style.

‘Cry Havoc’

Jack Carr brings the worlds of special operations and CIA paramilitary units into direct collision in the jungles of Vietnam with his explosive new thriller.

Whipped body butter

This cream hydrates your skin and smells great. My favorite scent: Million Bucks.

— Emma Patti, former managing editor

Make your own crush

Pretend you’re down the ocean with NobleMicks’ Frozen Grapefruit Crush. Just add vodka and water, pop it in the freezer and enjoy a perfectly tangy citrus cocktail. Made with real ingredients, it’s a refreshing gift for anyone who loves an easy, crowd-pleasing drink.

Kombucha kit

Brew up some creativity with this Baltimore-made kombucha kit from HEX Ferments. It includes everything needed to make fizzy, tangy kombucha at home, perfect for anyone curious about fermentation or looking for a fun kitchen project.

The gift of news

Share local stories that matter with a Banner gift subscription. Readers get unlimited access to in-depth reporting, investigations and neighborhood news. A thoughtful gift for anyone who loves Maryland and wants to stay informed and connected.

‘Partypooper’

It’s Greg’s birthday — and you’re invited to the chaos. In "Partypooper," the 20th book in UMD grad Jeff Kinney’’s global smash-hit "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" series, Greg Heffley is planning the ultimate party — for himself.

Weekly task planner

Ideal for the organized professional or anyone ready to make 2026 their year of execution.The 9.5” × 7.5” Weekly Task Planner packs a productivity punch with weekly spreads, a Sunday start, and an hourly breakdown of each day.

Doggin' Donuts

Treat your dog to something special with these mini “Doggin’ Donuts” from Hair of the Dog Barkery in Baltimore. Made with unsweetened applesauce, cinnamon and honey, they’re bite-sized, crunchy and built for pups who love a flavorful snack between walks.

Get social with your pup

Gift a month (or more) membership to Bark Social to get the dog, and their human, out of the house.

Hot sauces from Caulfield Provisions

Caulfield Provisions sells their holiday gift pack of hot sauces with Smokey Red Pepper Chipotle, Fiery Habanero Mustard, Minty Jalapeño Tomotillo and Szechuan Style Red Pepper for $40.

— Zuri Berry, executive editor

Jabot collar

The jabot collar is pleated and can be worn with a nice blouse and circle skirt or a simple tank top and shawl.

Madison Luxe Gloss Wash Bag

Ultra-lightweight and water-repellent, this glossy wash bag set keeps makeup, skincare, jewelry and more neatly organized. With an open interior and back slip pocket, it’s the perfect catchall for home or travel.

The cutest travel bag

Travel in style with this Maryland blue crab neoprene travel toiletry bag, designed with a playful blue crab print by Jami Creates.

Citrus Fruits watercolor painting kit

Paint your own watercolor citrus fruits with these outlines and paints. Optional easel and colorful artist’s apron make it a superb creative gift for painters of any skill level.

Skin renewal subscription

The deluxe membership includes a hydrafacial, dermaplane, peels and more each month.

Flower design class

Unlock your inner florist with a hands-on floral-design class. Choose your favorite stems, learn expert techniques and walk away with a show-stopping arrangement you created yourself. Ideal for a creative date or friends’ outing.

Infused EVOO

Get a combo pack of high-quality infused olive oil in garlic, lemon, chili and rosemary flavors from Dimitri Extra Virgin Olive Oil in Timonium.

Locally smoked seafood

Located in historic Annapolis, Chesapeake Smokehouse Inc. hand selects "the finest lumber" to carry out the ancient European tradition of smoking seafood. Among their popular products are different styles of smoked salmon and trout.

— Alex Mann, Anne Arundel County reporter

Infused Honey Subscription

This rotating honey subscription from Baltimore-based Hon’s Honey is truly a gift that keeps giving. In addition to a monthly jar of local, raw honey in flavors like habanero, rosemary, and creamed honey, each shipment supports women survivors.

SEW much fun

Have a crafty kid? Treat them to this hands-on sewing experience at Artsy Partsy. From threading the needle to finishing a handmade project, they’ll learn new skills and leave with something they created themselves.

Wine tasting

The Charm City Wine School is offering Wine 101 classes that span the vino globe. These fun and informative single-session classes feature 3 to 4 wines, including both New & Old World wines.

— James Meadows, newsletter editor

Pastrami style

Spice up someone’s snack game with jerky that’s anything but ordinary. From deli-style pastrami to spicy merguez, Jewish Jerky Brand makes small-batch, grass-fed beef jerky with clean ingredients, no soy, no gluten and no artificial preservatives.

K-9 Cookies

K-9 Kraving Beef Cookies provide a healthy snack, training treat and/or “on-the-go” foraging snack for all dogs.

Baltimore neighborhoods print

Celebrate Baltimore in color with this hand-illustrated map print showcasing every neighborhood and city park. Printed on eco-silk paper with soy-based inks and offered in framed and unframed sizes, it’s a stylish piece of local art.

Beer bath

The Spa at Bier Bath offers a truly distinctive spa experience. Soak in, you guessed it, beer, enjoy a sauna, cool off in a rain shower and enjoy unlimited drinks while you’re at it.

— Tim Prudente, enterprise reporter

Baltimore wallpaper

This high-quality, self-adhesive wallpaper features Baltimore designs by artist Elizabeth Graeber and is made of 100% paper with a woven linen texture. Plus, it’s movable and renter-friendly.

— Stokely Baksh, audience engagement editor

Italianish

Danny Freeman serves up over 100 fun, modern takes on Italian-American favorites, from lasagna soup to tiramisu brownies, making this a fantastic pick for both seasoned cooks and ambitious home chefs alike.

Hot dog race shirts

Is your kid on team relish, ketchup or mustard? Let your little O’s fan rep their favorite condiment with pride.

‘Let Us Alone’

Written by UMBC professor Michael Casiano, “Let Us Alone” explores how race, politics and capitalism shaped policing in Baltimore after the Civil War. A powerful read for history lovers and anyone curious about how systems of power took root in American cities.

‘Madness’

Award-winning journalist Antonia Hylton tells the 93-year-old history of Crownsville Hospital, one of the last segregated asylums with surviving records and a campus that stands to this day in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.

Shady Grove candles

A quarantine hobby between mom and daughter during the pandemic turned into a business. Shady Grove Candles are locally sourced, hand-poured and eco-friendly. My faves are the sandalwood, peppermint & eucalyptus, and apricot and jasmine scents.

— Ginny Bixby, government and politics reporter

Really Raw Honey

Ready to eat straight from the jar, Really Raw Honey is scooped right from the hive and not filtered, heated or strained. It even has little bits of pollen, propolis and honeycomb, and the texture is thick and crystalline. It's a Baltimore-based, family-run business and has supported small beekeepers for over 40 years.

— Michael Hughes, copy editor

Malachite Lady Earring

These elegant, snug and ladylike earrings feature a white mother-of-pearl cabochon top, malachite drop and polished 14-karat gold over brass.

Afternoon tea

As a chronically cold person who always needs a warm beverage, I’ve yet to have a cup of tea from Wight Tea Co. I didn’t love. This Baltimore-based, sibling-owned brand has something for everyone’s taste. Baltimore Breakfast and Fireside Fig are two of my favorites.

— Seth Lueck, director of customer acquistion

Maryland Monroe jerky

This beef jerky from Righteous Felon is kissed with a little crab spice.

Watercolor art

These hand-painted watercolor prints from Lucky Bat Paper Co. add a touch of artistry to any space. Inspired by nature and garden textures, they’re locally printed on eco-friendly paper and come in standard sizes for easy framing and make for subtle, meaningful decor.

Blend your own whiskey

If you have a whiskey-lover in your life, book them a Blend Your Own Whiskey tour at Baltimore Spirits Company.

Vinnie Mini Woven Crossbody

This crossbody bag features a magnetic flap closure, interior card slot and a blind embossed leather logo patch.

Plumeria bloom earrings

These classic-yet-bold handcrafted hoops are inspired by the shape of plumeria petals in bloom.

Oui Non Fob

This Oui Non (yes no) fob is ready for any mood, featuring a strand of butter charms, wooden beads, Le Jardin flower beads and an orange pig.

Otter encounter

Experience how the animal care team and river otters interact on a daily basis by watching a training session with Hudson and Brie the otters.

African fabric journals

Looking for something for a writer, thinker or organizer with a love of craftsmanship and color? Take note of these authentic handcrafted journals made with African Ankara Wax/100% cotton print fabric.

Stylish fidgets

Speks fidgets are like magnetic putty, a stress ball and building blocks all in one. Perfect for focus and stress relief.

Emotional baggage (and snacks)

If only this bag could carry it all, this quirky tote from SHEWOLF designs is just right for that friend who handles life with humor.

Touchdown treats

Make playtime exciting and engaging for your furry friend with this Terps-inspired treat puzzle.

Sapphire blue tea

Evoke summer skies and vibrant sips with this herbal loose-leaf tea blend made in Baltimore. It contains the essence of mango, lemongrass, butterfly blue pea flower and exotic lychee flavor that brews up a beautiful deep blue color.

Craftsman Apron

Saphrina Splendors (Gaithersburg) offers a homemade apron, emblazoned with a baby Chocobo from Final Fantasy, suitable for artisans of any kind — whether your craft is in cooking, painting or sculpting!

— Rondez Green, creator and social editor

Customized cookies or cupcakes

Sunflower Bakery in Rockville teaches developmentally disabled adults to bake and helps them get certified to work in a commercial kitchen. You can order seasonally decorated cookies or cupcakes.

— Lauren Markoe, news editor

Retro Natty Boh

For the Marylander who appreciates a good Natty Boh and even better style. This retro Richardson rope hat pairs yacht club flair with corner bar spirit. Lightweight, durable, UPF 50+, and adjustable for all-day comfort.

Smells of the shore

Bring some coastal calm to a commute. Blending sea-salt freshness with teakwood warmth, this Eastern Shore car diffuser from Sunshine + Saltwater turns every drive into a Maryland shoreline escape.

Black Women are the Future' coloring book

Baltimore-based author Naomi Winston created a coloring book specifically designed and curated to uplift Black women and girls with the goal of supporting sisterhood within the Black community.

CÀ PHÊ candle

Relish in the fragrant notes of Vietnam’s famous coffee with this CÀ PHÊ [Vietnamese coffee] candle.

Best of Both Worlds nail kit

Each set from Baltimore-based Janet & Jo includes a gel nail lacquer and matching air dry nail lacquer, for manis & pedis.

Love lavender?

Become a “friend of the farm” and get free field visits, picnics on the property and more from this lavender farm in White Hall.

Jimmy’s Crab Seasoning

Crafted to complement the natural sweetness of Maryland blue crabs, this bold blend of beer and vinegar flavors is a Chesapeake classic.

Locally grown herbal teas

Give your loved one a piping-hot cuppa from Heron’s Meadow Farm, one of Maryland’s few tea farms, located in Howard County. These blends are a warm gesture heading into the long winter months.

— Jess Nocera, Howard County reporter

Mr. Trashwheel Construction Kit

Build your own miniature version of Baltimore’s beloved trash-eating icon, Mr. Trashwheel. This laser-cut wooden kit is eco-friendly, educational and a fun gift for makers of all ages.

Cane Collective

Guava Tiki Punch transports you straight to a tropical paradise and reminds me of the fruits I grew up with in sub-Saharan Africa. While it makes a fantastic mixer with mezcal or gin, I love it best with soda water.

— Shalini Malaki, senior manager, institutional giving

Motzi Bread subscription

Surprise the bread lover in your life with a Motzi Bread subscription. Each loaf is baked with locally sourced grains and plenty of care, ready for easy pickup at the Harwood bakery. It’s the gift of warm, fresh bread and a connection to Baltimore’s local food community.

Crab chip notepad

Keep your tasks in check with the Maryland Crab Chip notepad featuring cheerful, snacking Oriole birds.

Dumper truck

Built for big imaginations and little hands, this sturdy dumper truck is perfect for hauling, dumping and endless make-believe. Durable, colorful, and fun indoors or out, it’s the ultimate gift for kids who love to build, move and play.

Open Book Chocolates

The literary-inspired chocolate company started in Montgomery County in 2017 with flavors inspired by novels such as “A Christmas Carol,” which has hazelnuts, pear and nutmeg in dark chocolate.

— Hau Chu, food, arts and culture reporter

No Plan hat

A hat for the person who’s winging it, stylishly. Baltimore’s own No Plan nails the balance of cool and casual with this mustard flat-bill that adds just the right pop of color.

Vegan felt catnip toys

The colorful handmade catnip toys from Close Call Studio are made of vegan felt and filled with organic home-grown catnip and fluff. An adorable choice for curious indoor cats who need a little stimulation.

Blooming Pride

Designed with sketched white hearts bursting with rainbow trails, this all-over print is a vibrant nod to love in all its forms — unapologetic, evolving and ever-blooming.

Custom book-themed gift basket

Choose between new or used books, select favorite genres and more based on your gift recipients' tastes, and the folks at Wyrd Bookstore in Edgewater will assemble a one-of-a-kind gift basket that could include books, candles, journals, coffee or teas.

— Cody Boteler, Anne Arundel County regional reporter

Mental health coloring book

Color your way into a deeper conversation with this 20-page Neuro Blooms coloring book. Each design is inspired by real brain scans tied to mental health conditions, paired with short facts and quotes. A thoughtful gift that blends art, awareness and self-care.

Custom stationery

Personalized snail mail is the best kind of mail! All illustrations are hand-drawn.

Elevated style

Have a dapper gentleman or a stylish lady? Then grab an accessory from Banjo’s Bows.

Layla Wide Cuff

Bold and artful, the Layla Wide Cuff features layered goose, pheasant and turkey feathers in fuchsia, slate and redwood, accented with gold venery pheasant for striking contrast.

Take flight

Give the gift of flight without the plane. At iFLY’s indoor skydiving experience, you’ll step into a vertical wind tunnel, suit up and feel the rush of soaring in a safe, controlled environment. Perfect for thrill seekers or anyone with “fly for real” on their bucket list.

Candle-making class

Find a little creativity and calm at the Mount Royal Soap Co. Factory in Baltimore. Craft your own non-toxic soy candle, blend custom fragrances, enjoy a behind-the-scenes factory tour and leave with a one-of-a-kind creation.

Cozy coastal crab pjs

Little ones won’t wake up crabby after sleeping in these soft bamboo pajamas. A full-length zipper makes changes quick, while the breathable fabric keeps baby comfortable from nap time to playtime. The cheerful print adds an extra splash of fun.

Maryland crab cakes

They’re shipped fresh on ice and arrive in perfect condition. My crab-loving stepmother swoons.

— Chris Dinsmore, regional editor

Baltimore bench dog toy

This plush dog toy takes inspiration from the famous “Greatest City in America” benches scattered throughout Baltimore City. With a playful squeak and durable build, it’s great for fetch or cuddles. Bonus: $2 from the sale of every toy goes to support the Friends of Patterson Park.

Second Story books gift card

What’s better than a gift card to one of the best independent bookstores in the county?

— Talia Richman, education reporter

Tashiding: Beyond Earth and Sky: The Gardens of Douglas & Tsognie Hamilton'

This stunning coffee table book takes visitors inside a private Cockeysville garden that features a tea house, Buddha statues and a lake filled with koi.

Axe-throwing and splatter glow paint party

Want to share some cathartic fun? Try this axe and splatter paint experience at Ax & Smash. It’s equal parts high adrenaline and laid-back creativity, a unique idea for a bold date night.

Freeze-dried pet treats

Snarfies makes freeze-dried pet treats my dogs love. Their favorite flavor: salmon.

— Emma Patti, former managing editor

‘Tough Breaks’

In “Tough Breaks: The Story of Baltimore Club Music,” music journalist Al Shipley draws from 18 years’ worth of interviews with dozens of DJs, producers, vocalists, party hosts, promoters and the founders of the clubs, labels and record stores that shaped the genre.

Natty Boh Drippin Beanie

This fresh take on Natty Boh will elevate your winter headwear game.

Cork fabric bags

These bags are made from ethically sourced and environmentally friendly cork fabric and handcrafted in Silver Spring.

Pancibus Chalsa

Founder Tommy Penaherrera is a UMD grad who launched his chalsa company in 2021. The mango peach chalsa is savory and sweet, made with fresh Chilean peaches.

Anti-Granny Hands Lotion Moisturizing Hand Cream

Treat dry hands to a serious glow-up with this playful yet potent hand cream. It leaves skin silky, smooth and smelling of its cheerful orange-vanilla scent.

Maryland Park Service Passport

Instead of toys my kids will get bored with, one item on our wish list every year is a Maryland Park Service Passport. Some of my family's favorites include the tire park at the Hilton area of Patapsco Valley State Park and searching for shark teeth at Calvert Cliffs State Park.

Make your own blown-glass creation

A gift that’s equal parts art and adventure, this unique experience allows you to work with the resident glass artist at McFadden Art Glass to blow, shape and design your own colorful creation.

MOU Eskimo Boots

Crafted from soft sheepskin with signature crochet stitching, this sleek winter boot delivers warmth, comfort and effortless style, the perfect blend of fashion and function for cold-weather days.