I am on a huge kick this year to do as much Christmas shopping as I can here in Sonoma. Everywhere I look, experts agree to help the economy in our own town, we must start with shopping locally. So, I hit the streets, looking for the best shops to buy toys and stocking stuffers for my kids while keeping my money here in Sonoma.

Here’s my five best stores you absolutely have to hit-

My first stop was the Marketplace (with CVS and Whole Foods) on at 201 West Napa Street. It has 3 great stores that are stocked to the brim with wonderful stocking stuffers for the kids.

Hollyhocks has rows and rows of puzzles, games and stickers. Prices range from $2.00-$20.00. They will be open on Christmas Eve and offer free wrapping for any item over $15.00. You do need to take your gift over to McCaulous store to get the wrapping.

McCaulou’s Kids, almost next door to Hollyhocks, has a great selection of stocking stuffers ranging in price from $.99 to $4.00 right by the register. Lots of kazoos and hackie sacks and and an entire case of Hello Kitty merchandise. The assortment is great and they have perfect little treats for boys and girls. Also will be open on Christmas Eve until about 4:00.

The last store is the Toy Shop on the end. The stocking stuffers were everywhere and the staff is very helpful. From Playmobil people, to Smencils and milk straws, they have bins filled with many unique and well made kids toys. Go in and check out the adorable stuffed animals and amazing game section! They will be open until about 3:30 on Christmas Eve and have free gift wrapping.

If you skip on over to downtown, your next street to hit is East Napa Street. My first stop was one of my very favorite stores, Tiddle E Winks. The owner, Heidi Geffen, is very friendly and extremely helpful. She can put together any theme you would like, such as baseball or Hello Kitty candies and trinkets, or you can just pick out lovely, little treats from yesteryear. From the Pez candy to the baseballs, your kids stocking will be brimming with treats! Also will be open on Christmas Eve until the last customer has been rung up (“Somewhere around 6:00ish” Heidi says.)

Right across the street you’ll find The Corner Store Kids. With a sign out front asking if I had stocking stuffers, I knew I had found the right place. The shelves are lined with books, marble games and unique stocking stuffers and all at great prices. Hello, Mento’s Geyser Tube and Marble Race Car-My son will love you!

My last stop is a new find down Broadway, almost on your way out of town. Fat Pilgrim has 2 stores that are filled to the brim with great stocking stuffers. Everything from delicious locally made jams to wonderfully smelling soap to chewing gum and jewelry~you are sure to finish up your list here. The adjacent store has all the Christmas decor and ornaments you could want. All were already 30% when I popped in last week. Definitely one of my new local faves!

Well, I hope this helps you to choose local when you have the opportunity. I guarantee your kids won’t be disappointed, your pocketbook, or our wonderful town! Have a wonderful Holiday!