This year, why not gift authenticity and culture? Québec Indigenous Tourism (QIT) has put together a list of physical and virtual sites where you can find original gifts with an Indigenous touch. Impress your loved ones and support local businesses!
Online Shopping
Atikuss
Keep your loved ones cozy and warm thanks to Atikuss. Mukluks, moccasins, fur hats, mittens: dress them from head to toe! This traditional eco-responsible business celebrates Canada's iconic caribou. Visit the online store, and support Atikuss by spoiling your loved ones.
Spices of the Warrior
Raquettes et Artisanat Gros-Louis
The Raquettes et Artisanat Gros-Louis store is a treasure trove. It’s in Wendake, just a few minutes’ drive from Quebec City. It's the place to find the perfect pair of snowshoes to enjoy the great outdoors in winter! Do you prefer to stay snug and warm indoors? Check out their real, Indigenous-made moccasins online or in store.
The book Northern Flavours
Stéphane Modat, Château Frontenac’s renowned chef, came back from his trip to Chisasibi with recipes a plenty to celebrate the flavours of the North. He wrote them down in the book Saveurs nordiques, available online in English and French. Surprise and wow your guests with dishes drawn from the exciting culture of the Cree of Eeyou Istchee.
Hôtel-Musée des Premières Nations
Explore Indigenous art on the online store of Wendake’s Hôtel-Musée des Premières Nations. Spoil your friends and family with unique hand-made artworks, such as the famous pottery pieces by Huron-Wendat artist Line Gros-Louis. There is great stuff for kids too: dazzle them with colorful jewelry and fun accessories. Enjoy free shipping for online purchases of $100 or more!
Onquata
Origine boréale par Wigwam
Home chef Maxime Lizotte has kept busy with Wigwam during the past months. He came up with new product lines to take your holiday meals to the next level. The Origine boréale collection and the seasonal collection comprise of sauces, condiments and seasonings produced locally, and respectfully in regard to Mother Earth. Available online and at select outlets.
Storefront Shops
Essipit Innu Craftshop (Côte-Nord)
A popular vacation destination with Quebecers, Essipit has its own arts and crafts store that showcases the know-how of the Innu of the North Shore. You will find gifts for everyone: mittens, dolls, moccasins, dream catchers, and much more! Come explore the creativity of the craftspeople of Essipit.
Onhoüa Chetek8e Traditional Huron Site (Québec)
For the first three weekends in December, the shop of the Traditional Huron Site will open its doors to welcome you. This is a great opportunity to find a truly Indigenous gift and to support a local business! Known for its authenticity across generations, this legendary shop in Wendake offers an impressive array of handicrafts: dreamcatchers, leather products, miniature canoes and unique jewelry.
Crédit: Mathieu Dupuis
Plumes et Pacotilles workshop-boutique (Centre-du-Québec)
In December, artist Sylvie Bernard welcomes you to her workshop-boutique Plumes et Pacotilles, in Wôlinak. She will walk you through an amazing collection of handicrafts, accessories, basketwork and ornaments that celebrate a thriving Abenaki culture. The artworks show great finesse and can be treasured for life.
La Maison amérindienne (Montérégie)
Locals will be delighted to know that La Maison amérindienne is open for shopping during the holiday season. Give the gift of traditional crafts, poetry and unique items while supporting a local institution. Gift certificates are available. Opening hours are on their Facebook page.
Musée des Abénakis (Centre-du-Québec)
Until December 18, the Musée des Abénakis will host Aln8bak en fête, an online Christmas market, in partnership with craftspeople from the Odanak community. Their Facebook page gives a sneak peek into the wonderful products on sale, from basketwork to leather wallets, not to mention traditional drums. With any purchase of $75 or more, get a museum pass!
Micmac Interpretation Site of Gespeg (Gaspésie)
Visit the gift shop of the Micmac Interpretation Site of Gespeg, which will be open especially for holiday shopping. From December 11 to 13, it will offer a wide range of Indigenous products. For more details about the event and opening hours, visit the Facebook page.
Native Art and Stained Glass (Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean)
You will be blown away by the works of art available at Native Art and Stained Glass in Mashteuiatsh. More than 22 Indigenous artists exhibit their handcrafted works to celebrate a culture brimming with creativity. Everything is in place for safe visits.
Kahnawà:ke Tourism
If you’re looking to shop indigenous, Kahnawà:ke’s local boutiques have your needs covered! With over 10 shops, just 15 minutes from Montreal, selling local, handmade, and indigenous goods! To name a few we’d start at Calico Cottage, Purple Dragonfly Trading Post, Valley girls gifts; or in the heart of town at Traditions, Village Variety, Ironhorse Wearhouse, Sequoia, Nicia’s Accessories, Turtle bay art studio, Wolf’s Den and more! For information on specific items, shops and locations, visit our Facebook page and send a message for help!
With these suggestions, you will surely find something to fill Christmas stockings and pile up gifts underneath the Christmas tree. If you prefer to gift moments and experiences, follow this link on La Ruche website to find out how to benefit of up to 60% discounts on our Indigenous experiences!