There’s a way to support your community AND get everyone on your list—no need to check it twice… we have it all.
The holidays are here, and with them comes the sparkle of lights, the joy of gifting, and the chance to show love to the people who matter most. But here in Champaign, we get to do something even more meaningful: support the local businesses that make our community shine.
Downtown Champaign shines a little brighter during the holidays—with its walkable streets, local restaurants, indie shops, vibrant arts, and cozy corners that feel like home. Every time you choose a downtown business, you’re helping keep our city center thriving, creative, and full of life.
DOWNTOWN CHAMPAIGN
A walkable wonderland of boutiques, bakeries, restaurants, arts, nightlife, and local treasures.
Retail
Jane Addams Book Shop – For the reader, the collector, the dreamer—rare finds and stories waiting to be unwrapped.
Ten Thousand Villages – Fair-trade, handcrafted gifts with global impact perfect for your worldly ( and environmentally conscious) chum.
Mother Ghost – Small-batch custom clothing for your fashionista friend who likes to stand out.
Planted – Houseplants, home goods, and artisan wares for your loved one with the green thumb.
Furniture Lounge – Mid-century modern furniture and accessories for the home décor lover.
Robert’s — The Fine Art of Jewelry – Timeless gifts, stunning pieces, and custom artistry for your bestie who just loves to sparkle.
The Literary – A cozy café + bookshop full of giftable reads and local merchandise with a little something for all ages.
Preservation & Conservation Association (PACA) – Architectural salvage, décor, history—perfect for unique gifts for the DIY-er in your life.
Plant Mode – Plants and cool vintage finds, plus now the new home to Prism Community Art School for creative classes you can take together – its an all-around winning joint for all
Live Action Games – Perfect for the kid or the kid-at-heart, offering all your video gaming needs in one spot. From retro classics to current favorites, this Downtown gem is your go-to place for consoles, games, accessories, and nostalgic finds that make unforgettable gifts.
Dark Matter Collective – For the loved one in your life who has it all – gift them with a piece of creativity, gorgeous design, and visual storytelling that will last a lifetime.
Restaurants, Desserts & Drinks
Suzu’s Bakery – Holiday pastries that feel like gifts in themselves.
Hounds Rest – A laid-back Downtown bar known for its cool events, fantastic staff, and a standout selection of beers and cocktails. With two convenient locations, it’s a great spot for holiday get-togethers, casual nights out, or gifting a night on the town with a local twist.
Watson’s Shack & Rail – Comfort food done right – perfect for the night when gift wrapping has you exhausted and cooking is not happening.
Blind Pig Brewpub – Seasonal brews for the craft beer fan.
Pour Bros. Craft Taproom – Self-pour fun for gatherings or gift cards.
Barrelhouse 34 – Craft cocktails + good vibes perfect for that yearly holiday reunion with friends.
Black Dog Smoke & Ale House – The BBQ that never disappoints, for the foodie you’ll never forget.
Jupiter’s Downtown – Pizza and pool nights make great holiday memories.
Seven Saints – Sliders, whiskey, and a cozy ambiance that makes it our go to spot for the “kids” of the family to celebrate after family time.
Big Grove Tavern – The perfect spot to host this year’s holiday meal – no cooking required.
Maize at the Station – Want to insert a double dose of culture and spice into someone’s life this holiday? Maize is the perfect spot for that authentic Mexican flavor that will have this gift card receiver thanking their taste buds.
Esquire Lounge – A Champaign classic with merch and take-home cocktails – need we say more?!
Martinelli’s Market & Deli – Gourmet deli items and unique gifts.
Bentley’s Pub – In need of a spot to get away from the fam on Christmas – say less. Plus, they have cocktails to go when you decide to return and still need some “juice”.
Punch! Bar & Lounge – Want to wow your out-of-town family members with a little taste of what makes Champaign so special – a night at Punch! the perfect choice for a holiday night on the town.
Hamilton Walker’s – With their upscale menu and elegant decor- HW is the perfect spot to *pop* out that once-in-a-lifetime gift for your special someone.
Farren’s at The Inman – With its fresh new location and cool, cozy ambiance it’s the go-to spot for coworkers to unwind and celebrate those much-needed holiday days away from work, plus great gift cards and a space to host your holiday get-togethers.
Venues, Community Services, & Non Profits
Virginia Theatre – Give the gift of an unforgettable show.
Orpheum Champaign and The Venue CU – Will this year’s gift cue wedding bells for next year – check out these beautiful downtown locations for your big day. They both also host amazing events throughout the year.
The Inman (AirBnb available) and Hyatt Place – Perfect spots to stash out-of-town fam who CAN NOT stay at yours.
Collective Futures LLC & Clanin Creative – Make 2026 your year with ways to level up your self or your business
Busey Bank • Hickory Point Bank • Illinois National Bank – Local financial institutions committed to community wellbeing.
UpClose Marketing & Printing / Dixon Graphics – Shop local for printed holiday cards or promo items.
Trautman Real Estate Agency & Appraisals – Local expertise for those gifting… say… a new home?
Steve Tarrant State Farm – Support a local agent while prepping for the new year.
Greater Community AIDS Project (GCAP) – A meaningful holiday donation.
Champaign Park District – Give the gift of experiences this year with theatre tickets, fitness programs, art classes, youth activities, and community events. From the historic Virginia Theatre to winter programs and new-year classes for all ages, a CPD gift is the perfect way to inspire joy, learning, and connection well into 2025.
Community Choices – Support community-driven empowerment and disability inclusion.
WEFT 90.1 FM – Local, independent radio worth supporting.
Champaign Public Library – Give the gift of discovery by making a donation in someone’s honor. Your support helps fund books, programs, events, and learning resources for all ages, ensuring the Library can inspire, educate, and uplift our community all year long.
The Land Connection – Support local farmers, food producers, and community markets by giving a donation in someone’s honor. Your gift helps strengthen our regional food system, sustain small farms, and keep fresh, local food accessible through year-round programs and markets. A meaningful way to nourish our community all year long.
Downtown Champaign shines a little brighter during the holidays—with its walkable streets, local restaurants, indie shops, vibrant arts, and cozy corners that feel like home. Every time you choose a downtown business, you’re helping keep our city center thriving, creative, and full of life.
This season, skip the big box bustle and find gifts, meals, and experiences right here in the heart of Champaign. Shop Downtown. Support Local. Spread Joy.