As twinkling lights and festive music fill the air, South County’s shops, markets, and makers invite residents to give gifts that support more than just a holiday list. They support the heart of the local economy.
From vineyard marketplaces to glowing greenhouses and historic village strolls, South County offers a gift-buying experience that’s as joyful as it is personal. And for business owners, that joy is essential.
“Holiday shopping in South County is a fun, entertaining, and festive adventure to share with the people you love,” said Joy Cordio in a blog post for the South County Tourism Council. “It’s an easy way to make gift shopping feel like part of the seasonal celebration.”
That feeling is being fostered through a growing number of holiday markets across the region. From East Greenwich to Westerly, each town with its many holiday events becomes a celebration of community and buying to support that community.
Markets at Shepherd’s Run, Sons of Liberty, and Clark Farms all offer more than just products. They offer experiences.
Artisan bonfires and mulled wine warm the grounds at Shepherd’s Run, while local vendors fill the distillery at Sons of Liberty with spirited charm. Clark Farms transforms its greenhouse into a glowing winter marketplace.
Dr. Nina Eichacker, an associate professor of economics at the University of Rhode Island, said, “Rhode Islanders, particularly those in vulnerable or volatile industries, will likely think hard about how much holiday shopping they commit to in 2025, and also what goods they decide to buy.”
That’s one reason the “shop local” movement remains critical. In uncertain economic times, keeping dollars close to home keeps doors open.
Westerly, Narragansett, and Wickford turn holiday shopping into something nostalgic and new. Carolers, cocoa, and candlelit strolls transform purchases into memories.
“Wickford’s cobblestone-lined harbor with garland-wrapped boutiques and glowing storefronts is one of the most enchanting places to shop in Rhode Island,” Cordio wrote. “You’ll enjoy late-night shopping, hayrides, live music, and Santa’s arrival by boat.”
Alongside the big events, small retailers are doing their part to make holiday shopping meaningful. Their shelves are packed with creativity and care.
At YES! Gallery in Wickford, curated gifts range from cutting boards to sweater-turned ornaments. “YES! Gallery’s collection might just cover the whole family,” wrote Stephanie Bernaba in South County Life Magazine last year.