Posted : November 8, 2018
Our blog is chock full of great ideas for fun things to see and do in York Durham and Headwaters. We are always adding new content and updating old posts, but sometimes you might stumble upon something from our vault. If this article has inspired you to hit the road, be sure to double-check that the featured stops in this post are still welcoming visitors.
Does the idea of trudging through a mall make you shudder like it’s February? Clear out the trunk, hop in the car and head for the Village of Erin in Headwaters. Wander the beautiful downtown, enjoy the shops, and find unique treasures that are great for checking off that gift list…but don’t blame us if you end up treating yourself to a find (or five).
Country living meets farming, horses, and boutique shopping less than an hour from Toronto: spend a full day snacking, shopping and sipping your way down Main St and spend some time with the true locals. Did you know that Erin has their very own Town Crier? Hear, ye. Hear, ye!
Flowers & Fur Babies
Pick up a beautiful holiday arrangement from born-and-raised local Krystal (and her adorable pug, Basil) at Snowberry Botanicals. Krystal focuses on locally-grown (sometimes even from her own organic cutting gardens) and locally foraged flowers & greenery, in order to lighten her eco footstep; she also sources unique finds from fair trade growers, and uses beautiful recycled paper and packaging to take your bundle home with. Get hands-on with Snowberry’s Festive Holiday Centrepiece Workshop: December 17th 3-5pm and December 20th 6-8pm $50 + hst.
Neverland
Got a brainiac-in-training or maybe a puzzle hound to buy for? Brighten Up is Erin’s treasure trove of games, toys, puzzles and everything else in between for life-long learners! Owners Chris and Stephanie Bailey always have awesome suggestions if you’re stuck, and you’ll be sure to find more than one amazing idea on their wall-to-wall shelves of fun and creativity. Always stocking something new, some of our favourites are Stinky Science Lab Kit, Shimmering Lip Balm Kit, and Relative Insanity, a hilarious game of “finish this sentence” that might just unveil the looniest member of your clan! Nearby B&B Tailwinds stocks their cozy living room shelves with Cobble Hill puzzles from this amazing shop for guests to tackle while they enjoy their charming stay in town; talk about #locallove!
Hometown Hospitality
The Village of Erin is also home to a number of unique gift shops, including Etta’s Gifts, Delight’s, Beaver Mills Antiques and The Weathervane. Owner/operator Ellen of The Weathervane fills beautiful displays with whimsy, delicious smells, beautiful housewares and delicate ornaments that have made this store a go-to for shoppers for over 20 years. Each November, The Weathervane hosts a BIG anniversary sale for old and new customers alike! It’s a great time to get some early Holiday shopping done, or to start decking your halls (and table) with festive linens, candles and adorable ornaments. For the fashionista friend or family member, visit Hannah’s Closet or Epiphany Apparel for showstopping party dresses and stylish accessories!
The Headscratcher
Everyone has that one person who’s nearly impossible to buy for: find unexpected ideas and practical picks at Budson’s Farm & Feed store! Local treats for pups, seed and feeders for the birds, and durable, warm workwear for the loved one who’s always tinkering on something outside, Budson’s also brings in special holiday items that are perfect for stocking stuffers! Have a carnivore on your list? They also stock and sell Traeger smokers and grills for your backyard baron or baroness.
Chocolate & Chai
Foodies to buy for? Deborah’s Chocolates has been an Erin classic for almost 20 years, making mouthwatering homemade chocolates, candies and fudge; everyone loves a sweet treat in the toe of their stocking! The Tin Roof Café, owned by adorable and talented young couple Rachel and Brady, sells locally roasted and sustainably sourced coffee beans, teas and knock-out gluten-free treats for a sweet gift. If you’re looking for something for that tea lover on your list, ask about Chaiwala Chai: handcrafted, responsibly-sourced and fair trade, this beautifully spiced drink is perfect for sipping around the fire after a winter hike. The Tin Roof’s ever-changing seasonal drink menu is as good an excuse as any to start or end your stroll down Main Street with a delicious mug of something warm.
So, what are you waiting for? Head into town and get to know the wonderful, warm vibes of this perfect little village – we’re sure it won’t be your last visit!
By Emily Quinton, Headwaters Field Manger, Central Counties Tourism.
