Santa says to shop local this year! With a wonderful assortment of specialty shops, restaurants, and attractions, Ephrata has plenty of options for you to choose from to check off everyone on your holiday shopping list.
Ephrata is a town that has been guided by its entrepreneurial spirit and a strong sense of community from its very beginnings. Our local businesses and entrepreneurs bring such value to our borough. This holiday season, we want to show how much we value them!
Below, we have compiled some ideas for you to shop local this holiday season. With a wonderful assortment of specialty shops, restaurants, and attractions, Ephrata has plenty of options for you to choose from to check off everyone on your holiday shopping list.
If you are looking to buy something extra special for someone on the nice list this year, Parkhill Jewelry may have exactly what you need. For over 31 years, Parkhill has been a trusted gem in the community. With quality diamonds, fine jewelry, and elegant watches, Parkhill’s expert jewelers are honored to help you choose the perfect gift.
Santa knows it best; there is nothing quite like biting into a freshly baked Christmas cookie. If you are looking for a simple and sweet hostess gift that is sure to please, then Laura’s cookies are exactly what you need! Simply place an order in advance through her website so that you don’t show up to your holiday gathering empty-handed.
Need a one-of-a-kind gift? Look no further than Uncle Funky’s Vintage Thrift Shop! This retro thrift shop offers an incredible selection of eclectic, vintage clothing, accessories, and collectibles as well as present-day attire. You’ll certainly find a fabulous gift for your funkiest friend or family member in this shop!
Other fantastic shops to peruse for unique gifts in Ephrata are ReUzit on State, FX Saddle Company, and Hometown Refurnishing.
Buying a gift card for a loved one to dine at their favorite local restaurant makes for an excellent holiday surprise! Several great options in Ephrata include…
Recently opened on 333 North State Street is Hillside Public House at Doneckers! This distillery, brewpub, and tasting room serve spirits from Hillside Distillery, a variety of Pennsylvania-made beers, wines, and liquors, and fare from local vendors including Brewster’s Bar-B-Que. Hillside is sure to become a new favorite spot in town.
With an inviting atmosphere, deliciously sweet and savory crepes, and gourmet coffee/tea concoctions, Griddle & Grind has quickly become a local favorite since its grand opening in November 2018.
A highly-rated, historic restaurant and tavern that serves flavorful, American fare in a quaint, early-19th century building, the (now) Olde Lincoln House was one of the first buildings constructed in the town of New Ephrata. It has been a public house for great food, atmosphere, and entertainment for several generations past.
It’s the most wonderful time for a beer! Need a present for the craft beer fans in your fam? A gift card to St. Boniface Brewing Company is sure to make them hoppy — er, happy. St. Boniface offers freshly crafted beers, live entertainment, and a small menu of tasty food options. Fill up a growler to make spirits even brighter at your holiday gathering.
Other excellent local eateries are Scratch Bakes, Pour Man’s Brewing Company, Black Forest Brewery, The Pressed Plate, and Three Sister’s Park.
Gift cards for fun experiences at local attractions make terrific gifts, and Ephrata has quite a few options for people of all ages!
The Gameseum Mega-Arcade and Museum offers its guests a modern arcade experience, but with authentic, restored coin-operated machines from the 1940s and beyond. For an affordable entry fee, guests have the freedom to play 80+ retro games like PAC-MAN, Galaga, Mario Bros, Space Invaders, PinBall, and more!
The New Main Movie Theater provides movie-goers with a unique experience as it has an old-style cinema feel matched with current box-office films and updated seating. In addition to admission tickets, the theater offers classic snacks and candies at more reasonable prices than large chain theaters.
What better a gift for a wine connoisseur than a gift card or vintage bottle from a local winery? Located in the Historic Smithton Inn, Weathered Vineyards Tasting Room offers a variety of delicious reds and whites ranging from sweet to dry in an ambient environment. Guests can unwind with a glass by the cozy fireplace in the winter or enjoy a flight in the outdoor courtyard during the summer months. They also host local musicians on Friday and Saturday nights as live entertainment. Cheers to finishing your holiday shopping list with this great gift!
Too many great options to choose from? Consider buying an Ephrata Local eGift Card. Many local retailers and restaurants mentioned above are participating merchants, so this card can be used to make purchases at several locations.
When you choose to shop locally, you help your friends, families, and neighbors succeed, and you invest in the economic success of Ephrata as well! For a list of local businesses in the Borough, check out our local business directory.