CUA's 2023 Holiday Wishlist
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Each year CUA puts together a list of some of our favourite Nova Scotian-owned businesses to inspire our members for the holiday season. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute gift or a great place to gather with friends, we have something for everyone! Check out CUA's 2023 Holiday Wishlist below and make a real impact on the CUA member businesses in your community.
Food & Beverage
Whether you’re looking for a unique dining experience, festive flavours, or gifting inspiration, check out our wish list for Nova Scotia food and beverage establishments below:
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At the Spanish-inspired Highwayman Restaurant & Bar, enjoy fresh, locally sourced seafood, meat, and vegetables in tasty shareable tapas and pintxos. Celebrate with a holiday dinner this season or consider purchasing a gift card for someone special. |
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Sit back, sip and enjoy with this delicious Maritime-based natural wine and cider company. Sourwood Cider offers fun and unique flavour profiles for you to enjoy on a cold winter’s night. Plus, their beautiful packaging means your gift-wrapping work is done! |
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Café Aroma Latino |
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Looking for classic diner comfort food in a bright, airy and inclusive space? Easy Street diner is family-owned and operated, carrying a wide variety of gluten-free options, as well as vegetarian and vegan items. Perfect for holiday brunch thanks to their kid friendly, picky eater-approved and flexible add-on menu. |
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A local bistro with a cozy, French-inspired atmosphere, Le Bistro by Liz is a delicious option for your holiday eating. Discover the old-world French charm right in the heart of Halifax with their Parisian Café menu that will keep you warm even in the coldest months. |
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Inspired by Guinness and Lennox, the two original brown hounds, this cozy neighbourhood British pub offers a warm ambience to pair with their delicious food and drink. Visit them in the downtown core or at their North End location this holiday season. |
Tasty Treats
It’s almost time to come together and treat your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a party at home or gathering at a venue, these CUA members have something delicious to make your guests feel extra sweet:
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If you haven’t tried Delectable Desserts yet, this is your sign. Browse their signature cakes for a beautiful centrepiece on your holiday table. For indecisive buyers, you can also try their Holiday Treat Box for an assortment of mini desserts. If you’re looking for a caterer for any holiday events this season, be sure to check out their website! |
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For a delicious assortment of baked goods, visit Mrs. P’s Homestyle Bakery. With goods such as homestyle oatcakes, pies, muffins, cookies and more, you’ll have lots to serve at parties or during your holiday visiting. |
Community
Interested in donating or volunteering this holiday season? Check out these community organizations and lend a helping hand this winter:
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Out of the Cold Community Association Out of the Cold Community Association offers permanent supported housing for their residents, including a programming space, a communal area, and a community garden. To help support the wonderful community at Out of the Cold, consider making a monetary or resource donation, or volunteering to make meals for the residents. |
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Ward 5 provides a wide range of programs for children, families and seniors in Halifax’s North End. They also host various events, such as community dinners, and even a Christmas party for families, to name a few! If you’re looking for a way to give back this holiday season, consider donating or volunteering your time to this great organization. |
Gifts & Retail
Need shopping inspiration? Looking for a gift that speaks for itself? Explore these high-quality retailers:
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Jake’s Florist and Chocolatier Whether you’re looking for the perfect floral arrangement to gift this holiday season, or for an experienced florist to elevate the décor for your holiday party, Jake’s Florist and Chocolatier will have you covered. Specializing in florals and handmade chocolates, you’ll enjoy beautiful and delicious arrangements for any holiday occasion. |
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If you’re in the market for a thoughtful gift or a wholesale supplier for your holiday event, Burning Flame Candle Company has your back. Shop from a variety of seasonal candles or request a private custom label for your group or company. Check out their Holiday Collection and set a festive mood with their delightful winter scent profiles. |
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Halifax Brewery Farmer’s Market The Halifax Brewery Farmer’s Market is the perfect place to discover the vendors of your dreams this holiday season. With a variety of products available from local food producers and artisans, the Market is the perfect stop to find all of your holiday gift ideas. Drop by between 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. each Saturday year-round! |
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You can find something for everybody at this one-stop shop featuring items from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. Browse their inventory online or visit them at their Halifax locations to discover art, jewelry, housewares, books, food and so much more. |
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If you’re looking for beautifully handcrafted gifts this holiday season, be sure to check out Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia and browse products from over 200 of Atlantic Canada's finest artisans. Remember to ask for gift wrapping! |
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New Scotland Clothing Co. is a great holiday shopping option if you’re looking for high-quality clothing with a distinctly local brand. You can also rest assured that their product line is ethically and sustainably made with materials that are designed to last. |
Four-Legged Friends
When it comes to the holidays, we want nothing but the best for those we love most, including our pets. Treat them to a trip to the groomers to show off their seasonal kerchief, a new chew toy for under the tree or a playdate with friends while you finish shopping:
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This time of year, between work, shopping, and holiday social obligations, you may need a helping hand looking after your four-legged friend. Jollytails Resort offers a doggy day care that ensures a consistent, fully supervised experience to alleviate boredom, while stimulating and socializing pets so they are more relaxed and content at home with you. Give your pup the gift of meeting new friends, burning off some energy, and maybe even learning a few new tricks along the way. |
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The East Coast Dog Shop & Grooming Co. Does your pup need a new ‘do for the holidays, or a gift of their own to chew on? East Coast Dog offers a large selection of products and services, geared towards discerning and health-conscious pet owners. Stop by their flagship Hydrostone location to see what’s in store. |
Post-Holidays Self-Care
Once the shopping is done, the parties have ended, and the leftovers are wrapped up in the fridge, you deserve some ‘you’ time to unwind:
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If you’re looking for a stimulating way to recharge this winter, R Studios offers in-person, live-streamed, and on-demand fitness classes. Whether you’re interested in yoga, Pilates, boxing or strength training, there’s a studio for you. If you need to fully recover from holiday celebrations first, check out their sauna and cold plunge for total relaxation. |
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Looking for the perfect place to unwind post-holidays? You’ll love the welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, one-of-a-kind services, and community-focused mindset of the Floatation Centre. Located in Halifax’s North End, experience the relaxing buoyancy of a saltwater float tank to ease muscle tension and pain, promote more restful sleep, help with migraines, and improve mental health. |
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Based in the heart of downtown Halifax, House of Eights Dance Studio is Atlantic Canada’s home for drop-in dance classes. With over 35 classes a week in more than a dozen different styles, you’ll easily find a class you’ll love. Shake up your post-holiday spirit and treat yourself or someone you love to a drop-in class! |
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