Get ready, get set, shop! Thanksgiving marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, and Black Friday sales start bright and early the next morning. The day after that is Small Business Saturday, an event meant to highlight and support small businesses in the area. Not sure where to start? We've got you covered! Check out the hidden gems below—then tag us in your photos with #shopsmall!
The Woodlands Mall
SHOPPING AT THE MALL
Black Friday deals abound at The Woodlands Mall. With 120+ retailers under one roof, you're sure to find what you're looking for—and maybe a few things that weren't on your wish list! Explore classic department stores like Nordstrom, Macy's, and Dillard's, or discover the latest trends at Altar'd State and American Threads. To find gifts for kids, try the LEGO Store or Claire's Boutique. Have a music lover in the family? ZT Records is a must. For books, games, art supplies, and more, you can't go wrong with Barnes & Noble!
DINING AT THE MALL
All that shopping is sure to work up an appetite, but don't worry! There are plenty of fantastic eateries in and around the mall. From quick bites at Shake Shack and Bigotes Street Tacos to fine dining experiences at North Italia and The Capital Grille and everything in between, you can always find exactly what you're craving. Don't forget dessert at Creamistry or Läderach Chocolatier Suisse!
HOLIDAY EXTRAS AT THE MALL
Ring in the season with all things Christmas at The Woodlands Mall! Catch a nightly performance by the Christmas tree in the Courtyard, take a magical Starlight Swan Boat ride through Holiday on The Waterway, or fulfill a child's holiday wish at a Salvation Army Angel Tree—then stop by for photos with Santa! St. Nick makes daily appearances at the mall between late November and Christmas Eve. He even offers sessions that are sensory-friendly and fun for your furry friends.
Insider Tip: Walk-in photo sessions are fine, but if you make a reservation, you can skip the line!
Market Street
SHOPPING AT MARKET STREET
Enjoy a tasteful and relaxing Black Friday experience at Market Street. This luxury shopping and lifestyle center features more than 60 boutique retailers, including world-renowned brands such as Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co. as well as a curated mix of local favorites like Golden Gray Boutique and Pell 1990. Whether you're searching for a classy timepiece, a sparkling ring to pop the question, or custom kicks for the kids, elevate your gift-giving skills with vogue fashions and exclusive deals at Market Street.
Insider Tip: To ease your experience and maximize shopping time, valet park your car and check out more ways to enjoy Market Street!
DINING MARKET STREET
When you've reached a good stopping point on your holiday shopping journey, satisfy your cravings at one of many dining hotspots on Market Street. There's Sweet Paris Crêperie & Café or The Audrey for an exceptional ladies' brunch, then try Sixty Vines or True Food Kitchen for a light lunch. For an elegant evening meal, dress for the occasion at Mastro's Ocean Club. If you're craving late-night bar food with a unique ambiance, discover something new at Local Public Eatery or Bosscat Kitchen & Libations.
HOLIDAY EXTRAS AT MARKET STREET
Experience the magic of the holidays with Market Street in Lights! Mark your calendars for the Tree Lighting Ceremony in mid- to late-November, when a 70-foot musical Christmas Tree in Central Park is illuminated for the first time every year. Santa usually makes an appearance on opening night, but this year he's set up his workshop between Madewell and Omega. Pop in before December 24 to snap a photo!
Shop Small Saturday
The day after Black Friday is known as Shop Small Saturday, a holiday designed to support small or locally owned businesses. Inventory is limited, so arrive early at these pocket-sized outlets to make sure you find all the best gifts and check off everyone on your holiday shopping list!
TEACUPS & TADPOLES
Looking to dress the littlest members of your family? Teacups & Tadpoles has a great selection of baby and children’s clothing perfect for any occasion, even photos for baby's first Christmas card! You can also find cute gifts and must-have baby items like board books, toys, and accessories.
PINEY ROSE FLORAL
Don't let the name fool you! Piney Rose offers beautiful plants and floral arrangements, but they also curate a number of small and personalized gifts. Discover cute greeting cards, matching sets of housewares, locally made jewelry, children's games and puzzles, and even pet toys!
ARDEST GALLERY
If you're looking for a gift that's truly one-of-a-kind, what better place to start than your local fine arts gallery? Ardest Gallery showcases unique 2D and 3D works by artists across the state, so media and prices may vary. Not sure what to get your art-lovers? Let them tag along to Art in The Woods, held monthly in the fall and winter, then return on Shop Small Saturday to add a piece to their collection.
JEN LOVES PAPER
If you're a fan of paper goods and stationery, chances are you've heard of Jen Loves Paper. Loyal customers will be happy to know that the products they've grown to love in her online store over the last 15 years are also available in-house, but don't stop there! She now carries a special line of mementos inspired by The Woodlands, which make great gifts for holidays, graduations, and any other occasion worth celebrating!
TUMBLEWEEDS & NOTIONS
From graphic tees to festive sweaters to accessories that pair perfectly with pieces you already own, Tumbleweeds & Notions will make you the star of your next holiday party! You can also look for cozy home decor items like picture frames, stationary, candles, and more.
VILLAGE BOOKS
The bookworms in your life will thank you for a trip to Village Books. Founded by a local magazine editor, this hidden gem is home to hundreds of new books, local artwork, candles, and other literary treasures. Instead of giving gifts this year, you can also bring your bibliophiles to an author reading or a writing workshop—or donate to the Reading is Revolutionary non-profit to provide stories to students in need.
