Made in the 613: Ottawa-Themed Gifts

‘Tis the season for baking, family gatherings and of course, shopping. Forget heading out and fighting with the crowds at the giant big box store. This year, we've sourced gifts for you that are exclusive to the city or that represent someone's love for the Nation's Capital. They're a perfect way to say Merry Christmas in the 613.

Locally brewed Big Rig Beer is available at their West end location for purchase, or can be delivered in a neat package from local gift giving company Givopoly. We love the beer selection, and also the apparel that is available for gifting as well. Add on a gift card for the restaurant (that can be used at either of their locations) to complete the gift. $37.95 for a Givopoly gift pack, available at givopoly.com.

Not to forget the creative and delicious neighbours in Ottawa's Valley, local shop Dream Weaver in Westboro has put together an Ottawa Valley snack gift basket filled with tastes of the Valley including jam, coffee, tea and more. Your gift recipient will delight in these tasty bites. $40, available at dreamweavergifts.ca.

Any drink can find a home on this YOW coaster from Versatile. We think anyone who once lived here and misses home would love this gift, or it would be perfect for someone who calls Ottawa home and yet travels a lot. The thoughtfulness and usefulness of this coaster will be well appreciated. Home is where your rest your drink. $32 for four, available at vtiledesign.com.

Ottawa's craft brew market has emerged as a powerhouse and we love that this gift is less about giving stuff and more about giving an experience. Choose from shorter, four hour tours or longer, full day tours and the beer lover on your list can enjoy taste testing and snacking their way around the city and surrounding areas. Starting at $69, available at brewdonkey.ca.

For the sports fan in your life give them a piece of baseball that is made right here in Ottawa. The popular Sam Bat is no stranger to major MLB players and now your ball loving friend or spouse can enjoy their own Sam Bat. Gift cards are also available so your baseball MVP can customize their own bat. $89, available at canada.sambat.com.

If you know someone who loves to bike around the city, this print may be the perfect gift for them. The print is shaped like the city itself, but filled with images of bikes and is available in three trendy colours from local shop Workshop Boutique. With an affordable price point, we think teachers, babysitters or your BFF would love it. $14, available at /workshopboutique.ca.

This gift will encourage your special someone to wear their love of Ottawa around their neck. This delicate design from Magpie Jewellery is a lovely way to hold onto the Capital every day. It's available in a large or small size and in silver or tumbaga. $63, available at magpiejewellery.com.

Ottawa is full of iconic buildings, institutions and places to see. Give a gift that is straight from the parliament buildings, quite literally, with a pin made from the original copper roof that covered the buildings from 1918-1996. The sales from the pins go to support people with development disabilities who are also involved in creating them. Some local souvenir shops may also have them. Starting at $7, available at lop.parl.gc.ca.