Christmas Shopping and Holiday Events in Champaign, IL

For the best in holiday gift ideas, check out the many fine specialty shops in Champaign, Illinois and the surrounding area. Apart from Santa’s workshop, you’ll not find better gifts for friends and family this holiday season. The following shops offer the best seasonal items as well as year-round gift ideas for the special someone on your list.

Vilardo’s Home Accents and Gifts offers a variety of seasonal selections as well as their usual tasteful array of accents for around the house. Just in time for the holidays, Vilardo’s is expecting their Firenze charm bracelets in the coming weeks. These imported bracelets from Italy may be just thing for the female you’re shopping for. Vilardo’s is located at 1729 W. Kirby, (217) 352-6597, and is open from 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Mon. - Fri.; 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat. and during the holiday season from 1 p. m. - 4 p.m. on Sunday. Vilardo’s offers plenty of off-street parking.

If you’re seeking a gift with an international flavor, try Ten Thousand Villages in downtown Champaign at 105 N. Walnut, (217) 352-8200. Ten Thousand Villages imports gifts from all over the world and carries Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanzaa gifts during the holiday season. If you’re looking for gifts that are out of the ordinary, stop by Ten Thousand Villages. Metered, on-street parking is required but is usually free during the month of December. There are several very fine cafes and two bars all within a block if you need a break from the holiday hustle and bustle.

If it’s unique gift ideas that you’re in search of, look no further than Wind, Water and Light at 10 Main St., (217) 378-8565, in downtown Champaign. This renovated area of downtown is quickly becoming a prime spot for Champaign shoppers once again. Wind, Water and Light carries handcrafted works by artisans including paintings, ceramics, glass, etc., many of which are created by local artists and craftsmen. They have a selection of holiday gifts as well and are open from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tues. - Sat., and 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sun.