15+ Last-Minute Holiday Gifts in Toronto (That Look Planned)

So, you’ve done it again. The holidays are just around the corner, the Eaton Centre is a scene, and your gift list is still looking pretty empty. Finding great last-minute holiday gifts in Toronto doesn’t have to be a mad dash; the city is packed with spots where you can find something special without anyone knowing you waited until the last second.

Just a heads up: Business hours and details can change. It’s always a good idea to check their official websites or give them a call before you head out.

15+ Holiday Gift Ideas for Last-Minute Shoppers in Toronto

Thoughtful Last-Minute Gifts You Can Find in the City

Unique Finds at Kensington Market

Kensington is the opposite of a big-box store. You can wander through the maze of independent shops and find everything from vintage clothing and handmade jewelry to rare books and artisan cheeses. It’s the perfect spot to find a truly one-of-a-kind gift.

• Price: $ – $$$
• Location: Kensington Market, Toronto, ON
• Contact: https://kensingtonmarket.to 
• Pro Tip: Go on a weekday afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds. The market is a vibe, but it can get packed on weekends.

A Cozy Read from Type Books

For the bookworm in your life, nothing beats a physical book. Type Books has a wonderfully curated selection, and the staff actually know their stuff. It’s one of the best last-minute gift ideas for friends who just want to curl up with a good story.

• Price: $$
• Location: 883 Queen St W, Toronto (other locations)
• Contact: https://typebooks.ca | 416-366-8973
• Pro Tip: They have a great “staff picks” section if you’re stuck and need some inspiration.

Tickets to a Mirvish Show

Instead of giving a thing, why not give an experience? A night out at the theatre is a classic for a reason. Gifting tickets to a show is a fantastic way to give a memory instead of just an object, which is a great approach if you’re trying to move away from purely material gifts.

• Price: $$$
• Location: 244 Victoria St, Toronto (other locations)
• Contact: www.mirvish.com | 800-461-3333 | audienceservices@mirvish.com 
• Good For: A special someone, parents, or anyone who appreciates the arts. This is one of those timeless last-minute gift ideas for her or him that feels incredibly planned.

Board Games from Snakes & Lattes

Board games are making a huge comeback. Snakes & Lattes has an insane library of games, from popular party games to intense strategy ones. It’s a gift that encourages spending quality time together.

• Price: $$-$$$
• Location: 489 College St, Toronto (other locations)
• Contact: www.snakesandlattes.com/college  | 647-342-9229
• Pro Tip: If you’re not sure what to get, the staff are all huge board game nerds and give amazing recommendations.

Local Craft Beer from Bellwoods Brewery

For the beer aficionado, a curated pack of craft brews is a guaranteed win. Bellwoods Brewery is a Toronto staple with unique and delicious options you can’t find at the Beer Store. This is a solid choice for last-minute gift ideas for him when you’re completely stumped.

• Price: $$
• Location: 124 Ossington Ave. Toronto
• Contact: https://bellwoodsbrewery.com | info@bellwoodsbrewery.com 
• Pro Tip: Check out their bottle shop for special releases and cool merch like glasses and hoodies.

Gourmet Goodies from St. Lawrence Market

When in doubt, go with food. St. Lawrence Market is a treasure trove of deliciousness. You can build a custom gift basket with artisan cheeses, cured meats, fresh pasta, and incredible baked goods.

• Price: $$-$$$
• Location: 92 Front St E, Toronto
• Contact: www.stlawrencemarket.com | 416-392-7219 | stlawrencemarket@toronto.ca 
• Pro Tip: Head to the lower level for even more vendors and try some of the famous peameal bacon sandwiches while you’re there.

A Class at The Chef Upstairs

This is for the foodie who has every kitchen gadget. A hands-on cooking class is an interactive and fun gift that lets them learn a new skill. They offer classes on everything from pasta making to Thai cuisine.

• Price: $$$
• Location: 516 Mount Pleasant Rd, Toronto (other locations)
• Contact: https://thechefupstairs.com | (416) 544-9221
• Good For: Couples, friends, or anyone who loves to get creative in the kitchen.

A Plant from a Local Nursery

A plant is a gift that keeps on growing. Places like Sheridan Nurseries or any of the smaller plant shops on Queen West have a huge selection of indoor plants for every skill level, from low-maintenance snake plants to fancy fiddle leaf figs.

• Price: $$-$$$
• Location: 2827 Yonge St, Toronto
• Contact: www.sheridannurseries.com | 416-481-6429 | info@sheridannurseries.com 
• Pro Tip: Ask the staff for care tips and maybe grab a cute pot to go with it.

A Self-Care Day at Body Blitz Spa

Sometimes the best gift is the gift of relaxation. Body Blitz is a women-only spa famous for its therapeutic waters circuit. A gift certificate for a soak or a massage is a top-tier last-minute gift idea for her.

• Price: $$$
• Location: 471 Adelaide St W, Toronto
• Contact: https://bodyblitzspa.com/bbs | 416-364-0400 | info@bodyblitzspa.com 
• Good For: Your partner, your mom, your sister, or a friend who is definitely overdue for a break.

A TIFF Membership

For the film buff, a membership to the TIFF Bell Lightbox is the gift that lasts all year. It comes with perks like free tickets to screenings, discounts on special events, and early access to festival tickets.

• Price: $$$
• Location: 350 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3X5
• Contact: www.tiff.net 
• Good For: Anyone who lives and breathes cinema.

Something Sweet from SOMA Chocolatemaker

You can never, ever go wrong with high-quality chocolate. SOMA has two locations (Distillery and King West) and their stuff is next-level. From their drinking chocolate to their beautiful truffles, it’s all delicious.

• Price: $$
• Location: 32 Tank House Lane, Toronto (other locations)
• Contact: www.somachocolate.com | 416 815 7662
• Pro Tip: Their almond toffee is ridiculously addictive. Just buy two.

Local Art from the One of a Kind Show (Online)

Even if you missed the in-person event, the One of a Kind Show has an online shop featuring hundreds of Canadian artisans. You can browse from your couch and find everything from pottery and paintings to fashion and home decor.

• Price: $$-$$$
• Location: Corporate Office, 20 Eglinton Ave W #1200, Toronto
• Contact: https://oneofakindshow.com | 416-945-0386 
• Pro Tip: It’s a great way to support local artists and find a gift that no one else will have.

A Nice Bottle from the LCBO

Let’s be real, this is the classic Toronto last-minute stop. But you can elevate it. Instead of grabbing the usual, head to a larger LCBO with a Vintages section and ask an employee for a recommendation on a nice bottle of wine, whisky, or tequila.

• Price: $$-$$$
• Location: 49 Spadina Ave., Toronto (other locations)
• Contact: www.lcbo.com/en/stores/front-spadina-511 | (416) 598-1482
• Good For: Almost any adult on your list—hosts, colleagues, or friends.

A Donation in Their Name

For the person who insists they don’t want anything, a donation to a charity they care about is one of the most thoughtful last-minute gifts. Choose a local Toronto charity like The 519, Daily Bread Food Bank, or SickKids Foundation.

• Price: Your choice
• Location: 525 University Ave, Suite 1400, Toronto
• Contact: www.sickkidsfoundation.com | (416) 813-6166
• Pro Tip: Most charities will send a nice e-card to the recipient to let them know a donation was made in their honour.

The Classic Amazon Prime Save

When you’re truly down to the wire, there are always holiday gift ideas for last-minute shoppers on Amazon. With Prime’s same-day or next-day delivery in the GTA, you can get popular gifts like tech gadgets, bestselling books, or cozy home goods delivered right to your door.

• Price: $ – $$$$
• Location: Online
• Contact: www.amazon.ca 
• Pro Tip: Double-check the delivery estimate before you click buy. Some items might take longer, even with Prime.

A Gift Card to Their Favourite Local Spot

It might feel impersonal, but a gift card to a small business they love is way better than a generic one. Think of their favourite local coffee shop, restaurant, or indie clothing store. It shows you pay attention and supports a local business.

• Price: $$-$$$
• Pro Tip: This is a great way to approach the “7 gift rule”—a concept where you buy seven smaller, intentional gifts (something they want, need, wear, read, etc.). A gift card can cover “want” or “do” easily.

Planning More Festive Fun?

Once your gift shopping is finally done, you’ll probably want to get into the festive spirit yourself. If you find yourself near the Distillery District picking up some chocolates from SOMA, you’re in the perfect spot to dive into the city’s most magical holiday event. Make sure you’re prepared by checking out Your Complete Toronto Christmas Market Guide for all the details on tickets, vendors, and can’t-miss attractions.

More…

• https://streetsoftoronto.com/toronto-culture/new-stores-toronto-for-holiday-shopping
• https://www.reddit.com/r/askTO/comments/zr77wf/what_are_the_best_stores_to_buy_gifts_at_in
• https://www.tastetoronto.com/guides/local-gift-ideas-for-the-food-and-drink-lover