Christmas is officially one month away, and we’re kicking off the festive season with a guide packed full of brilliant ways to support local businesses. From gifts with purpose and feel-good fundraising campaigns to artwork, experiences, food and fashion, every idea here comes directly from the talented people working across Baltic Creative.
Whether you’re shopping early, browsing for inspiration or looking for that final something, our guide brings together 20 ways to celebrate the festive season while championing Liverpool’s independent creative community.
Community & Fundraising Gifts
We’re starting our guide with something that really matters: ways to give back this year. From community campaigns to purpose-led organisations, these gifts make a difference close to home and help support the people who keep our city thriving.
If you want to give back, support purpose-led businesses, and champion the organisations that make Liverpool a kinder, more connected place, start here. These are gifts with impact – the ones that truly give twice.
Support for People and Planet
Treat someone (or yourself) to a yearly Independent Liverpool card from just £10. Not only does it unlock discounts across the city’s indie scene, it helps sustain small businesses during one of the busiest retail periods and encourages shopping local all year round.
Ethos is a beautifully designed magazine dedicated to stories of sustainable businesses, ethical innovation and community action. A subscription is the perfect gift for anyone passionate about positive change, with issues landing through their letterbox across the year. For an even more planet-friendly option, try a digital subscription.
Looking after our Community
Agent’s annual All You Read Is Love campaign returns this year, collecting books for children and young people aged 0–18. Donations are open until 9th December, and every book helps spread the joy of reading to a family who needs it. You can drop donations to their Liverpool office in 49 Jamaica Street.
If you want to make a difference this year, consider supporting Alfie’s Squad. Their vital work helps young people bereaved by suicide rebuild their lives through community, connection and positive activities. A powerful way to honour the spirit of the season.
Across the district, Baltic Triangle Area CIC works year-round to improve the local environment and connect our creative community through events, fundraising and neighbourhood projects. This winter they’re partnering with The Florrie to collect essential food for local people in need. Get involved for a simple way to support those closest to home.
Artwork & Creative Gifts
If you’re hunting for presents with personality, look no further than the artists and makers who call Baltic Creative home. From bold prints to analogue photography experiences, this section is full of meaningful gifts crafted right on your doorstep.
Funky Prints by Local Designers
Whether you’re buying for a culture lover, muso or an animal-obsessed kid, Dorothy has you covered. Their prints are clever, cool and beautifully crafted. Their new Dinosaur Inside Information collection is perfect for young explorers (or fully grown ones), while their iconic Blueprint range makes unforgettable statement gifts.
At Lost Plots, you’ll find joyful, colourful stationery and artwork inspired by retro icons, zodiac motifs, travel themes and beyond. Their cards, notebooks and prints are ideal for creative souls and those who love a pop of colour in their everyday life.
Iconic Local Art
For the art aficionado, Liverpool Biennial’s online shop is full of exciting finds. Pick up something from their Biennial 2025 merchandise range, or treat someone to a limited-edition print for a gift that lasts a lifetime and supports contemporary art in the city.
Poto is home to a collective of 12 local artists working across illustration, painting, printmaking and more. Shop online or head down to their stall at Liverpool Christmas Market for an in-person browse. From original artworks to stocking-size prints, everything here is created with heart and character.
Gift an Experience
Know someone who loves photography, creative tinkering or learning something new? A gift experience with Little Vintage Photography is truly unforgettable. Their portrait sessions, darkroom workshops and analogue processing experiences offer magical, hands-on encounters with the craft of image-making. It’s a perfect experience-led present!
Music and Live Events
Experiences make unforgettable presents, and Liverpool’s music and cultural calendar is full of them. Whether you’re gifting a night out, a festival ticket or a new vinyl, these picks celebrate the joy of live music, creativity and shared moments. Give a gift that creates memories, not clutter.
Tickets to The Big Ones
Looking for something major? Grab On The Waterfront tickets via Skiddle before they sell out. It’s the perfect present for festival goers and anyone already dreaming of summer.
For the gig-lover in your life, Sound City 2026 tickets are a brilliant choice. As one of Liverpool’s most iconic festivals, it’s ideal for those who love discovering new artists and soaking up the energy of the city’s music scene.
Explore New Sounds
Milap, the UK’s leading Indian arts and culture organisation, has just announced their 2026 programme. Their Spring lineup brings the bold, boundary-pushing sound world of Indian percussionist, composer and producer Sarathy Korwar to Future Yard on Saturday 28th March.
District’s 2026 lineup brings a wave of fresh talent to Liverpool, from rising indie acts to bold, experimental performers. It’s the perfect gift for anyone who loves discovering new music.
Music They’ll Treasure Forever
For the ones who prefer to enjoy music at home, browse Modern Sky’s catalogue. Vinyl and digital albums make thoughtful, long-lasting gifts – perfect for those cosy winter evenings.
Tasty Treats & Last-minute finds
Still searching for the perfect present? These last-minute ideas are simple, thoughtful and guaranteed hits ideal for foodies, fashion lovers and gamers alike.
Fashionista Finds
For stylish, practical gifts, explore Flexfit’s premium caps and headwear. Then head to Bennetts for trainers ranging from everyday classics to bold statement pieces.
Award-winning games
Treat the gamers in your life to one of Milky Tea’s award-winning titles. They’re easy to download, fun to play and perfect for quieter days between Christmas and New Year.
Foodie treats
Shopping for caffeine lovers? Grab a bag of freshly roasted coffee or a brew kit from 92 Degrees for a gift that’s guaranteed to be enjoyed.
Or, if you want to go the extra mile, book someone lunch, brunch or dinner at Yonder. Even better – make a day of it together exploring the Baltic Triangle. Sometimes, spending time together is the best gift of all.
Shopping locally means more than ticking things off a list… It directly supports the artists, makers, community groups, venues and entrepreneurs who keep Liverpool’s creative scene alive. Every print purchased, ticket gifted, coffee brewed and donation made has a real, lasting impact.
Whether you’re buying something small or planning a meaningful experience, we hope this guide helps you discover something new and inspires you to celebrate the season the Baltic Creative way: creatively, consciously and with plenty of community spirit.
