The line at the grocery store yesterday was long. So long that I had time to learn that Jackie Chan is retiring, Danica Patrick is getting a divorce, and that they might be finally doing an honest repair to that scary bridge on 100 by Lareau Farm Inn. As I pondered the “news” in the check out line, I started to unload my groceries and it suddenly dawned on me how lucky we are here in Vermont to have such wonderful access to local products – food, drink and beyond.

My grocery cart was filled with real good real goods. There was a local turkey, fresh bread, local beer, tons of local produce, local eggs, local cheese and even locally roasted coffee. In fact, without even thinking about it while I shopped, the sole non-local item moving down the grocer’s conveyor belt was a pack of batteries.

Obviously I’m on autopilot when it comes to purchasing locally. But we have such an abundance of options, how could you not? Even making 50% of your purchases locally can have a significant impact on the local community but infusing much need cash right back into the local infrastructure instead of some out of state executive’s pockets.

So here’s a list of great places to get some local shopping done this holiday season:

Great Art shows to check out:

• Women’s Festival of Crafts, November 23-25, 149 Church Street, Burlington. Check out over 50 booths filled with handmade jewelry, recycled art, greeting cards, clothing, and more.
• Waterbury Artisan Holiday Boutique, December 1,2 North Main Street (formerly Five Hills Bikes) Waterbury. Support a diverse and talented group of Waterbury and area artists vending their quality art and crafts.
• Moretown Artisans’ Sale (That’s us!!) December 8-9, Moretown Elementary School, Moretown. – Clearly the best of the best (!) featuring over 2 dozen incredible Vermont artists!! Check out our full line-up of artists here, and enjoy live music on Saturday with performances by Lisa Carlson and her students, a visit from Santa from 12-2 on Sunday and a silent auction to run all weekend, benefiting Hannah’s House. Fiddlehead Cuisine will be serving food on Saturday and Grace’s Tamales will be there on Sunday. With tons of convenient parking, you have to stop by!

Great Local Shops to check out:

• Stowe Street Emporium – There are so many great gift ideas from stocking stuffers to one of a kind gifts for everyone on your list – you must stop in have a look!
• The Alchemist Cannery – Perfect for the beer geek on your list, not only can you get some of the best beer on the planet here, but they also have a great selection of beer-themed gifts, featuring the Hoptique line from Alena Botanica
• The Store – Foodies will love this place chock full of kitchen gadgets, must-haves and more. They also have cooking classes in their beautiful test kitchen in the back!
• Red Hen Bakery – One part gourmet food shop, one part bakery, one part coffee shop, this is a great place to find a great gift for the wine lover on your list – or to get a little pick-me-up cup of joe to keep you moving!
• Sunflower Natural Foods – A great place for your natural and local groceries, they also have a great selection of cards, candles and more so you can get your holiday groceries and a couple gifts while you’re at it.
• Prohibition Pig – When the shopping is over, swing by the Pig for a delicious meal and a fine beer. With a new chef in the kitchen, your dinner is sure to satisfy!

Of course there are endless options for local shopping – ask your friends where they go and keep it local this holiday season!