Even if the lack of snow suggests otherwise, the holiday season is just around the corner. If you haven't started shopping for your loved ones or finished your gift list, don't worry—our team has prepared a guide to inspire you! Whether for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies, or culture lovers, here's a selection of gift ideas that will transport your loved ones to our beautiful region, even in the heart of winter.

1. Flavors of Côte-Nord: For the Foodies

Delight the gourmets in your life with a gift box filled with local products such as Riviera's haskap berry steak seasoning, Manoir du Café's coffee, Ferme Manicouagan's wild berry jam, Trésor des Bois' dune pepper, or Mère Michèle's spreads. You can assemble a personalized gift box tailored to the recipient or purchase one at the Marché aux Trésors. For beer and spirits enthusiasts, consider creating a gift basket featuring locally brewed and distilled products from Côte-Nord.

Treat the food lovers in your life to a memorable gastronomic experience at a restaurant they've never tried, or cook a new recipe together at home using local ingredients.

2. Local Crafts: Handcrafted Treasures

Support local talent by giving unique creations from our artisans. Those who enjoy relaxation will love receiving handmade candles or soaps crafted with natural ingredients and scents inspired by the Nordic landscape, such as balsam fir or wild berries.

3. Clothing and Accessories: Combining Style and Comfort

Quebec winters call for warmth and coziness. Handcrafted by Indigenous artisans, Atikuss creations are both works of art and practical clothing and accessories that provide excellent protection from the cold.

The designs from Capelan and Les Dériveuses draw inspiration from Côte-Nord's riches, including the boreal forest, the St. Lawrence River, and local expressions. Their clothing and accessories are perfect for showcasing your love for the region.

4. Books and Cultural Keepsakes: A Journey Through History

Several authors from Côte-Nord draw inspiration from the region in their works. Poetry lovers, for example, will appreciate the poetry collections of Rita Mestokosho from Ekuanitshit, including her latest work, Atiku utei. Le cœur du caribou. Meanwhile, children aged 7 to 12 will be captivated by the adventure series Nos expéditions au nord du 52e parallèle by the Duo Créatif, based in Fermont.

Give the gift of a cultural experience to someone eager to learn. They'll appreciate receiving an annual or seasonal pass to visit a museum or interpretation center, such as the Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre, the Godbout Birds of Prey Interpretation Centre, Sainte-Amélie Church, the Côte-Nord Regional Museum, or the Pointe-des-Monts Lighthouse.

5. Nordic Experiences: Gifts to Cherish

There's nothing better than sharing a unique experience with a loved one and creating lasting memories.

Plan an outdoor activity such as a dog sledding adventure, a sea kayaking excursion, an introductory diving course, a day of ice fishing, or a round of golf.

Enjoy a relaxing escape into nature by staying in a unique accommodation. Treehouses, yurts, and chalets are just a few of the options available along the coast.

The Centre des Arts de Baie-Comeau and the Salle Jean-Marc-Dion in Sept-Îles host performances by artists from near and far, covering a variety of performing arts disciplines. Gift a pair of tickets to a show or a gift certificate.

Conclusion
Giving a gift inspired by Côte-Nord means sharing a little piece of our region's soul with those you love. By choosing local products and unique experiences, you're doing more than giving a present—you're supporting the artisans and businesses that make our region shine.

Bonus Idea: Invite your loved ones to discover these treasures in person during their next visit to Côte-Nord. A region to explore... and rediscover!