Upper Canada Mall

And just like that, the holiday season is here. No matter who you’re gifting to, nothing feels better than selecting that just-right present for someone special. To help you navigate the busy, bustling season ahead, we’ve made holiday shopping that much easier with our family-friendly gift guide that covers off sure-to-please presents for everyone on your list.

This year, consider shopping local! Check out the Shop Local initiative where shopping centres are highlighting local stores filled with memorable holiday gifts.

There’s always a long list of innovative toys every holiday season and this year is no different. From educational toys that focus on help with reading, teaching science and more to old-fashioned fun like puzzles and board games, there’s no shortage of options. If you’re overwhelmed by choices, crowd-pleasers like Lego, DIY craft sets, and interactive games are always a safe bet.

Calling all techies! The tech world was booming this year and that’s evident from all the fun and technology-focused gifts on the market for the holiday season. The tech head in your life will no doubt love to spot the latest from Apple (ipads, laptops, upgraded phones and more), a smart home device or a new game console under the tree, as they can never get enough of the newest and most ground-breaking gear available.

We all need a bit of health and wellness in our lives, and thankfully the sky is the limit when it comes to healthy food and lifestyle gifting options. Whether you’re looking to pitch in and help a loved one set up their dream at-home gym, offer a busy friend a moment of zen with a meditation accessory or simply gift someone special some ‘me time’ with a beautiful journal, a wellness-minded gift is always appreciated.

This one is for the foodies and eternal hosts. From the baker extraordinaire to a budding chef, shopping for food lovers can be a piece of cake. There are so many options available from cookware and kitchen accessories, with each one adding an always-appreciated bright spot to every kitchen. Gifts like dishware, a delectable cake stand and small but mighty stocking stuffers such as chopsticks and mugs promise to impress.

Fashionistas of all ages will appreciate these on-trend and fashion-forward gift picks. To ensure your gift will incorporate into an already stocked closet, opt for mix-and-match items like jewellery and accessories that are easy to pair with just about everything. Another safe bet is selecting a beauty gift set that will add a pop of colour to a new holiday ensemble.