Holiday shopping is a whole lot more fun when you discover something unexpected along the way! From unique boutiques and specialty foods to locally inspired gifts and memorable experiences, the Willmar Lakes Area offers plenty of ways to find something for everyone on your list.

Whether you’re shopping for the outdoor enthusiast, the fashion lover, the sports fan or the person who seems to have everything, you’ll find plenty of inspiration in New London, Spicer and Willmar. Make a day of it by exploring local shops, enjoying a meal or coffee break, and soaking up the holiday spirit along the way!

Discover Unique Gifts at Local Boutiques

Skip the predictable gifts this year and explore the Willmar Lakes Area’s locally owned boutiques and specialty shops. From distinctive home furnishings and Minnesota-made products to stylish accessories and fun finds for kids, these stores offer plenty of inspiration for your holiday shopping.

New London

Three Sisters Furnishings is a destination for home décor, unique gifts, children’s items, specialty pantry favorites, artwork and custom-made Amish furniture. Browse seasonal accents, find something special for the home or put together a gift basket filled with delicious treats. Complimentary gift wrapping makes getting your presents ready for the holidays even easier.

Lucky Duck brings a little nostalgia and plenty of personality to holiday shopping. Browse toys, games and puzzles, along with nostalgic candies and unique flavored popcorn made right in the store. It’s a fun place to find gifts for kids, grandkids or anyone who appreciates a sweet treat.

K & Co. makes fashion fun and accessible with trendy, affordable clothing and accessories in sizes XS through 6X. You’ll also find a curated selection of gifts, including Minnesota-made products that celebrate local pride and make thoughtful presents for the holidays and beyond.

Happy Sol brings together Minnesota-themed gifts, stylish clothing and cozy home accents. Explore a curated mix of apparel, jewelry, home décor and unique finds for men and women of all ages, including cabin-inspired pieces and decorative touches that add warmth and personality to any space.

Spicer

Urban Escape Boutique offers women’s apparel, accessories and gifts for anyone who loves a fresh look. Browse stylish clothing and finishing touches to find something that suits the fashion lover on your list.

Code 4 LLC combines outdoor gear with Minnesota-inspired gifts. Along with hunting gear, optics and outdoor accessories, you’ll find apparel, hats, candles, mugs, local souvenirs and gifts from Minnesota makers and small-batch creators.

Willmar

Mainstream Boutique carries women’s fashion and accessories, including casual wear, seasonal outerwear, shoes and jewelry. Look for pieces from Mac and Me, a line known for custom denim, limited-run tops and its signature “You Are So Loved!” interior lining.

Primrose Boutique specializes in trendy women’s clothing, accessories and jewelry, offering plenty of options for anyone who loves keeping their wardrobe fresh.

Shoppe 14 blends fashion, home décor and entertaining essentials with a wide selection of gifts. Browse clothing, purses, jewelry, scarves, candles, greeting cards and gourmet foods, then explore glassware, linens, barware and tabletop accessories. Its remarkably realistic permanent botanicals are another distinctive option for anyone who loves the look of fresh flowers without the upkeep.

Stacy’s Nursery & Floral offers flowers, plants and seasonal décor to bring a festive touch to someone’s home. Consider a floral gift or seasonal accent for the person who loves decorating for the holidays.

Give the Gift of Something Delicious

You can never go wrong with a little something tasty! Food gifts are easy to personalize, whether you’re filling a stocking, bringing a hostess gift or creating a basket for someone who loves discovering new flavors.

Start with locally made chocolates from B’s Chocolates in Willmar. Choose an assortment for a sweet standalone gift or add chocolates to a larger holiday basket.

You can also build a personalized basket with specialty foods and treats. Browse pantry favorites at Three Sisters Furnishings or gourmet foods at Shoppe 14, then mix and match items such as sauces, jams, candies and other goodies to suit the recipient. Add a mug or candle for an extra touch, and you’ll have a gift that feels personal without being complicated.

Find Gifts for Outdoor Lovers, Sports Fans and Homebodies

The best gifts often connect with what someone already loves to do. Think about their favorite hobbies, how they spend their free time or what would make their home feel a little cozier.

For the angler or outdoor enthusiast, Sunray’s Bait, Tackle, & Outdoors and Mel’s Sport Shop are local places to look for fishing gear and other outdoor essentials.

Give the gift of a Minnesota adventure! A Minnesota State Parks and Trails gift card is a great way to help someone plan their next outdoor getaway, whether it’s a visit to Sibley State Park or another Minnesota state park. Available through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources online store, gift cards can be used toward a vehicle permit, camping or lodging, tours, I Can! programs, recreational equipment rental, apparel, limited-edition stickers and magnets, and more! You’ll also find hiking and passport club booklets, state park mugs and other gifts in the online store. Shop at mndnr.gov/giftcard or purchase a gift card at an open state park office. Office hours vary, so check ahead before visiting.

Shopping for a sports fan or collector? The Fan Zone in Willmar carries licensed apparel and collectibles for the NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL, including plenty of gear featuring Minnesota favorites like the Twins, Vikings, Wild and Timberwolves. You’ll also find merchandise for other teams, such as the Green Bay Packers and Dallas Cowboys, along with sports cards and collectible card games like Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering and Yu-Gi-Oh!

For someone who loves making their home feel welcoming, consider seasonal décor, candles, floral arrangements or distinctive furnishings. Shops like Three Sisters Furnishings, Shoppe 14 and Stacy’s Nursery & Floral offer options for refreshing a space or adding a festive touch for the season.

And if you’re still unsure what to choose, a gift card to a favorite local boutique, restaurant, coffee shop or specialty store lets the recipient pick out something they’ll truly enjoy while supporting a local business.

Give an Experience They’ll Remember

Sometimes the best gifts aren’t things at all. Give someone a reason to get out, try something new or spend time together with an experience in the Willmar Lakes Area.

At Shining Light Entertainment, families and groups can enjoy ocean-themed blacklight mini golf, laser tag and party rooms, with pizza, snacks and beverages available. Adults ages 18 and older can also try axe throwing, making it an option for family outings, group gatherings or a night out with friends.

For a creative experience, Artsy Fartsy invites visitors to choose ceramic or wood pieces and paint them however they imagine. It’s a fun way to spend time together while creating a one-of-a-kind keepsake.

Prefer bowling? Alley on Ash combines bowling with delicious food and drinks, making it an easy choice for a fun night out.

At Willmar Indoor Golf & Cages, golf enthusiasts can play virtual rounds on golf simulators, while baseball and softball players can practice in the HitTrax-equipped batting cages. The facility also offers activities such as darts, cornhole and pool, along with food and drinks—a great combination for a group outing.

You could also give tickets to a local performance or sporting event, such as a Willmar Stingers baseball game or a Willmar WarHawks hockey game. Whether you’re shopping for a family, a couple or a friend, an experience can turn a holiday gift into a memory you’ll share.

Shopping at the Last Minute? We’ve Got You Covered!

The holidays have a way of sneaking up on us. If you’re still checking names off your list as the big day approaches, there’s no need to panic. You can find thoughtful gifts around the Willmar Lakes Area, even when time is running short.

Here are a few quick ideas to get you started:

• For food lovers: Pick up chocolates from B’s Chocolates or assemble a gift basket with specialty treats.
• For kids and grandkids: Browse toys, games, puzzles, candy and freshly made popcorn at Lucky Duck.
• For hobby enthusiasts: Look for outdoor gear, sports collectibles or a Minnesota State Parks and Trails gift card.
• For someone who loves experiences: Consider an activity at Shining Light Entertainment, bowling at Alley on Ash, indoor recreation or tickets to a local event.
• For the person who’s hard to shop for: Choose a local gift card or combine a few small finds into a personalized gift basket.

Remember, a thoughtful gift doesn’t have to be elaborate. A few carefully chosen items from local businesses can make a wonderful present, even when you’re shopping close to the holiday.

Make a Holiday Shopping Trip Out of It

Why rush from store to store when you can turn holiday shopping into a festive outing? The Willmar Lakes Area’s small-town charm, locally owned shops and dining options make it easy to spend a day exploring.

Start in New London, head to Spicer and finish your shopping in Willmar—or choose one community to explore at a time. Take a break for lunch, warm drinks or a sweet treat, and leave yourself time to wander into a shop you hadn’t planned to visit. You might discover a new favorite business or find the perfect gift when you least expect it.

Keep an eye out for seasonal shopping events and holiday markets, too. The Willmar Winter Craft & Gift Show and the Holiday Boutique at the Willmar Community Center are popular opportunities to browse handmade gifts, specialty products and holiday treasures. These events typically take place on the first Saturday in December, but be sure to check the current year’s event listings for dates and details before making plans.

As the day winds down, keep the holiday fun going with Celebrate the Light of the World at Robbins Island Regional Park in Willmar. This drive-through Christmas light display features dancing lights choreographed to holiday music, making it a festive way to end a day of shopping. Check the latest event details for the current holiday season before you go.

Shop Local and Share the Holiday Spirit

This holiday season, make your shopping list an opportunity to discover something new in the Willmar Lakes Area. From locally owned boutiques and delicious treats to distinctive gifts and memorable experiences, you’ll find plenty of ways to make your holiday giving meaningful.

When you shop local, you’re doing more than finding gifts for friends and family. You’re supporting the businesses and communities that make the Willmar Lakes Area a special place to visit and live.

So grab your shopping list, bring a friend and explore New London, Spicer and Willmar this holiday season. You might even discover a few things to add to your own wish list along the way!