For those who will be away from the province this holiday season, there’s a way to make them feel a little closer to home — no matter the distance.
I recently asked fellow Newfoundlanders and Labradorians which locally made items would make the quintessential Christmas care package. Here are 20 of the most popular answers for your gift-giving inspiration (in no particular order).
1. Chocolate from Newfoundland Chocolate Company
Anyone who has a sweet tooth would appreciate a box or bar of artisan-crafted chocolate. Find more at www.newfoundlandchocolatecompany.com.
2. Hand-knitted mittens, a hat or scarf
Give the gift of comfort this Christmas with these cosy items. You can find them at many shops, but there’s something special about hand-knitted pieces made right at home. Bonus points if you use the person’s favourite colours.
3. Sweet treats from Purity Factories Limited
Everyone from Newfoundland and Labrador knows these items are considered staples in many households year-round, but even more so during the holiday season. Whether you’re a Jam Jams fan or enjoy a Peppermint Nob or four, there are plenty of goodies to go around. Check out purity.nf.ca.
4. Yuletide magazine
Pick up an extra copy of this year’s Yuletide and tuck it in the holiday care package for that special someone who would love a piece of home.
5. A small rock from the Rock
Sit back, relax and enjoy a night at home this holiday season by watching your favourite festive movies or explore others you’ve yet to watch. With so much hustle and bustle leading up to Christmas, kicking up your feet in front of the TV is a great way to tune out of the chaos and tune into a classic. Here’s a list to get you started. Don’t forget the popcorn!
Simple and symbolic all in one — what more could you ask for? Plus, it wouldn’t cost a cent!
6. Locally made tea towel or dishcloths
There’s no shortage of these useful, decorative pieces if you look around. If you can find one with an iconic Newfoundland and Labrador image, even better.
7. Postcard from home
This doubles as a way for you to send a small reminder of home and also write a thoughtful message that can be treasured for years to come. Besides, who doesn’t appreciate a handwritten note these days?
8. Labradorite jewelry
Whether it’s a necklace, a pair of earrings or a bracelet, this is a great choice for anyone who likes adding to their jewelry collection.
9. Christmas plaque from Jellybean Row
For the person who adores festive decor, Christmas plaques from Jellybean Row are both colourful and classic. Visit jellybeanrow.com or look for Jellybean Row on Facebook.
10. A packet or jar of savoury
Christmas dinner isn’t complete without this kitchen pantry staple — and we all know it. You can smell the dressing just by thinking about it.
11. Mummer tree ornament
Be on the lookout for these comical ornaments to add to the Christmas tree.
12. Homemade jam
You can’t go wrong with holiday care package preserves. Whether it’s bakeapple, blueberry, raspberry, strawberry, rhubarb or partridgeberry jam, there’s nothing like the taste of home in a jar.
13. Bottled moose meat
This is the perfect addition for anyone who misses moose meat and enjoys eating it straight from the bottle or adding it to a hearty stew.
14. Pease pudding bag
These aren’t always easy to find for those who live outside the province. (Don’t forget to include a bag of yellow split peas.)
15. Homemade pickles
Pickle lovers will be pleasantly surprised when they see this in their holiday care package from home.
16. Molasses
Sticky and sweet, it’s the perfect treat.
17. Saltwater taffy
Toss in a few taffy candies for good measure before you tape up that holiday care package.
18. Salt from the Newfoundland Salt Company
This local business makes finishing sea salt “in small handcrafted batches from the pure and clean waters of Trinity Bay in beautiful Bonavista, Newfoundland,” notes the website. Find out more at newfoundlandsaltcompany.com.
19. Young Studios calendar
This calendar features the vibrant and skilled work of Newfoundland-based artist Adam Young. It’s a good way for your loved one to count the days leading up to their next visit home. See more of Young’s work at ayoungstudios.com.
20. Newfoundland and Labrador mug
You don’t have to be a tourist to appreciate this classic care package item.
This content originally appeared in YULETIDE PREPARATIONS, a SaltWire custom publishing title.
