Hidden Holiday Gems: The Readings Offer Festive Shopping, Cozy Bites, and Unforgettable Community Moments

As you gear up for your holiday shopping, the North Shore offers no shortage of quaint downtowns to wander—from the postcard perfection of Rockport to the refined charm of Newburyport. This year, however, gift-givers looking for new places to explore might consider the oft-overlooked destinations of Reading and North Reading, where unique shops, enticing food, and a palpable sense of community bring the seasonal spirit to life.

“It feels festive,” says Liz Whitelam, owner of Whitelam Books in downtown Reading. “This town really enjoys its holidays. People really get into it.” Tucked into the corner where Routes 93 and 95 intersect, Reading has become an increasingly popular commuter town over the past 20 years. Its downtown has grown alongside its population, adding cafés, curated gift shops, and distinctive boutiques that make it a draw at any time of year. “It’s so close to everything, and it’s so accessible,” says Sharon VanHorn, a lifelong resident and local real-estate agent. “It’s evolved a lot.”

**Liz Whitelam, owner of Whitelam Books | Photograph by Sarah Jordan McCaffery**

During the holiday season, the town is truly in its element. The festivities kick off with an annual tree lighting in the town center the weekend after Thanksgiving, followed later that week by Shop the Block, when stores stay open late offering deals, free gifts, snacks, and the occasional sip of wine. “It’s just a delightful mob scene,” Whitelam says with a laugh.

Downtown Shopping Delights

Downtown provides a bounty of shopping options throughout the holidays. Whitelam Books stocks reading material for young and old, along with an array of unexpected stocking stuffers. The shop also embraces the Icelandic practice of Jólabókaflóð, or “the Christmas book flood,” in which books are exchanged on Christmas Eve. Whitelam’s offers kits—including a candle, cozy socks, and gourmet hot chocolate—so gift-givers need only add the book of their choice to offer the gift of reading and comfort.

**Photograph by Sarah Jordan McCaffery**

Shoppers seeking distinctive clothing and accessories can stop by Aine’s Boutique or Boston Microneedling, which, despite its name, houses a popular boutique alongside its skincare services. Pet lovers will want to visit Everything But the Dog, where they’ll find treats, winter gear, and even an advent calendar for the canines on their Christmas lists. For the holiday season, creative gift shop Tin Bucket transforms itself into an immersive celebration of Christmas, offering a curated selection of blankets, candles, colorful décor, and more.

**Pam Keating** /**Photograph by Sarah Jordan McCaffery**

Holiday Feasting

“From the day after Halloween on, that’s what I’m doing—I’ve been transforming my shop,” says owner Pam Keating. If shopping works up an appetite, downtown Reading offers plenty of options. Warm up with shepherd’s pie at the authentically Irish Bunratty Tavern, or settle into an upholstered booth for an upscale dinner at Post 1917, a steakhouse located in a former post office that has earned wide acclaim since opening last year. To toast a successful spree, grab a seat at the Venetian Moon bar and explore a martini list boasting more than two dozen inventive concoctions, plus a build-your-own espresso martini option.

**Post 1917 is a wonderful spot for a holiday celebration | Photograph by Anthony Tieuli**

North Reading Charm

Just up Route 28, the separate town of North Reading has a more spreadout, rural feel. But a bit of wandering leads shoppers to Brissonte, where it’s easy to while away an hour exploring overstuffed displays of candles, teas, baby clothes, handbags, dishes, décor, and more giftable treasures. Looking for activities beyond shopping? Brissonte hosts a holiday shadowbox class on Dec. 5, and Tin Bucket offers a wreath-making workshop on Dec. 8. Craft-beer enthusiasts can stop by Hopothecary Ales for Christmas trivia on Dec. 9 or 11.

**Goodhearts Children’s Shop | Photograph by Jared Charney**

While events and retail options keep the season joyful in both Readings, what truly makes the holidays special is the chance to meet passionate small-business owners, run into old friends, or strike up conversations with new acquaintances over a pint, Whitelam says. “That’s a real part of the joy of that downtown shopping experience: You are connecting with your community.”