Are you are looking for a small, charmingly decorated town where you can shop local for everyone on your holiday list? If so, you are in the right place! Featured today on Theresa’s Reviews, I’m sharing the experience of holiday shopping in the bustling small town of Old Ellicott City, Maryland.
Old Ellicott City Charms Holiday Shoppers
Throughout history, Old Ellicott City has been devastated by several floods. In 2018, only a month after I wrote about the re-opening of a boutique after one flood, another came through with over 8 inches of rain. Despite these challenges, store owners have been persistent in sharing their appreciation for this small, historic town. Now, numerous stores are open for last-minute holiday shoppers. Find locally-made items that are simply perfect for that hard-to-shop-for person on your list!
Holiday Bucks are Back
Visit Howard County is excited to bring back Old Ellicott City Holiday Bucks for a second year! Visit Howard County, in partnership with Howard County Government, Patapsco Heritage Greenway, and Maryland Heritage Areas Authority, Howard County Economic Development Authority, and Ellicott City Partnership provided 1,500, $10 “bucks” to shoppers.
The goal was to raise awareness that Old Ellicott City is “Open for Business” and that everyone needs to come and “See What’s New in Old Ellicott City”.
The Holiday Bucks coincided with Ellicott City partnership’s “Shop Local, Shop Late” event also taking place on Dec. 19, 2019. Participating stores in Old Ellicott City were open late that evening, while many have late hours through the holiday shopping season. 
Small Holiday Gifts for Everyone on Your List
From co-workers to your children’s teachers, there’s always someone new to add to your last-minute holiday shopping list. Remember the bus drivers, your relatives, and the related arts teachers, and then, the list can get quite long! Instead of buying a small Starbucks gift card for everyone, support local businesses. This can help you find much more personalized, creative gifts too.
One of my favorite spots for finding gifts for everyone on my list is Sweet Elizabeth Jane. You can find Maryland-inspired cooking items, festive holiday decor, and thoughtful books.
Create a gift basket that your gift recipient will appreciate at the Wine Bin. Gather the best fresh cheese and meat, nuts and popcorn and more, and add in nice beverages for a gift that is useful and thoughtful.
If you are shopping for a farmhouse-enthused home owner, A Journey from Junk is the place to go. They have all the best cottage-inspired styles, including distressed wood and vintage signs.
Holiday Window Competition
Through December 19th, the stores are competing in a holiday window contest. Festive holiday lights and beautiful displays add to the excitement of shopping on the main street of this historic town.
Dining in Old Ellicott City
Whether you are shopping with your friends, family, or solo, you can fuel your shopping expedition with a delicious meal at Manor Hill Tavern. I highly recommend the Birds the Word sandwich made with bread & butter brined fried chicken, chipotle slaw, house pimento cheese, pickles, and a spicy honey drizzle on a Manor Hill Spent Grain Brioche.
Another delicious dish is the Tavern Burger, known for its delicious Wisconsin Neuske smoked bacon. Add a side of the bacon fat fries and molasses ketchup for a flavorful side.
The restaurant is also known for its brick oven pizza. If you don’t mind spice, the Holy Smoke pizza is an excellent choice. It has Alabama White BBQ, Tavern Blend cheese, smoked cheddar, root beer BBQ sauce, beer can chicken, pickled jalapeno, corn, and hardwood smoke.
After enjoying the rich flavors of these hearty dishes, a S’mores Tart is very satisfying and refreshing. There is plenty to share.
For a festive holiday shopping experience, visit Old Ellicott City. You can support local businesses and enjoy the beautiful holiday lights!
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Disclosure: I received an item for free, but it in no way influenced my opinion.
