Downtown Holland for the Holidays

There is something beautiful about Thanksgiving (in addition to having the time set aside to be thankful) that I LOVE. As a U.S. national holiday that we can all celebrate regardless of family background, religion, or political views it seems that this year a celebration we can celebrate together is especially important. Community dinners and long tables stretched out in public halls across the country help bridge communities and neighborhoods, which adds a sweet sense of gratitude for all.

Another thing I love is the whole week leading to Thanksgiving! Everything can feel festive -- each day! I spontaneously invited my running group over for drinks tonight after our evening jog because it’s a short week (I know -- spontaneity and planning don’t go together, but I TRY!) The kids have a shorter school week which will allow my family a day to sleep in, eat a big breakfast on Wednesday, and SLOW DOWN. I’m grateful some businesses close on Thanksgiving, helping make everything feel a bit LIGHTER this week -- I hope it does.

SO, enjoy the Holiday as one big LARK! One idea for the weekend...

Come spend a day {or weekend!} in beautiful Downtown Holland this holiday season! You can accomplish your Christmas shopping at the most darling boutiques while enjoying all the sights, sounds, and tastes that Downtown Holland has to offer! My dear friend Lexi, from In the Hutch, and I have compiled a list of our favorites – Downtown Holland Holiday Highlights. We’re sharing where to find great gifts (and we couldn’t share nearly all of favorites!), coffee stops, lunch locations, events we never miss, dinner favorites, where to catch some R&R, where to stay, and even a little secret!

Ferris Coffee avocado toast is one of my favorites - and a dry cappuccino of course.

First stop! Ferris Coffee. This chic coffee spot couldn’t be cuter: floral wallpaper, comfy couches, and a great menu of drinks and yummy bites. We suggest trying the avocado toast or a giant croissant. Their cold brew coffee is famous, but warm up with any of their coffees, Mexican hot chocolate, or tea lattes. This place is "Instagram worthy"...as they say.

Ready to get your shop on? There's a little bit of everything, so spend some time wandering down 8th Street. Here are a few places you absolutely can't miss...

Spring Sweet: Cozy sweaters, candles, jewelry, fresh flowers, and so much more. It'll feel like you've stepped into a boutique in Paris.

Frances Jaye: This shop will give any Chicago boutique a run for its money. Find items for guys and gals...everything is just. so. good.

Studio K: A fabulous boutique that is very chic and has the best selection of cashmere. Stop in on Black Friday and be entered to win a cashmere travel wrap!

In between stores, stretch those tired shopping legs and head over to The 205 Coffee Bar! New to Holland, this airy, modern, and lovely high-ceiling shop brings specialties like on-tap beet kombucha and the best pour over coffee in town.

Tip Toes: This store is for all of those little tots on your list -- clothes, toys, and everything for those kiddos.

JB and Me: Another fave of ours! Don't miss all the shoes in the back as you wander through displays of cute clothes and jewelry. They carry favorite brands like Free People and Sorel.

Kilwins: Owned and run by my childhood friend and her family, you MUST buy a caramel chocolate covered apple. Buy it and eat later with a side of wine. You’re welcome.

Gezellig Home: This darling antique and home goods store is new to Downtown Holland and features great, unique gift ideas, too. Gezellig is my favorite Dutch word and means cozy/fun/warm…it’s the best!

Tikal: This unique women's clothing shop has been a Downtown Holland mainstay for over 25 years.

Reader's World: When you need a break from clothes and gift shopping, stop here to pick up the perfect book you need to get that much-needed R&R. They have an excellent selection of books and the best recommendations!

I’m here WEEKLY - I love ordering books over the phone and picking them up and browsing the shelves -

You'll be working up an appetite after all that shopping, so be sure to take another food break! Downtown Holland has several great lunch spots, but my favorite is Mizu Sushi. I recommend the Rainbow Roll and a big, hot bowl of their House Udon. But, don’t skip dessert! I'm a huge fan of their green tea ice cream -- it's fabulous!

Shop, shop, shop--there are so many places to go after your lunch break! After all that shopping you deserve a little relaxing treat and -Engedi Salon is an excellent spot to grab a pedicure.

call en gedi and schedule a pedicure!!!!

Make a weekend of Downtown Holland and literally shop until you drop and enjoy a stay at the City Flats Hotel just steps off 8th. The hotel is chic, modern, and their beds are SO comfy. Unwind a bit and change for dinner. Need a dinner suggestion? We're so glad you asked, because we love Butch's Dry Dock! Ask for a table up front by the windows where you can watch the snow fall and the hustle and bustle of Christmas shoppers on 8th street. I love their frites as an appetizer. Enjoy a salad or the signature tomato bisque. For the main course I'm partial to their filet with risotto and wild mushrooms---it is SO good. Wait! Your night isn't over yet--we've got a little secret if you're looking for a very special night cap. Shhhhhhh....head to the front desk at Butch's with a secret password for the Onderground { this week it is Van Winkle }. They'll lead you to a speakeasy so perfect you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time. The cocktails are fantastic, the music is spot on, and the atmosphere couldn't be cooler! I love the Moxy, but you can't go wrong with the Classic Toddy or one of their flaming drinks! Hours this week? 11/21: 5 p.m. - 10 p.m., CLOSED Thanksgiving, 11/23 & 11/24: 5 p.m.- 11 p.m. (or later!)