Remember a time when you used to bundle up in a wool sweater and scarf in search of maple syrup while downing a pint of beer wrapped in Tragically Hip album art? Me neither. But there is something very Canadian about the look, which is what makes these gifts so much fun as well as practical. So whether you’re purchasing a gift for under the tree or to send to a Canadian expatriated family member who insists they really just like the weather where they’re living, but everyone really knows they’re not allowed back into the country, these gifts are sure to please.
CBC logo sweater
Whether you’re mourning the retirement of Rick Cluff from The Early Edition or celebrating Stephen Quinn as the new host, these are the sweaters CBC fans will want to be wearing to ring in the new year at the Mother Corp. These sweaters, designed and hand-knit in Vancouver, feature the iconic CBC gem logo and zigzags representing analog radio waves. The Hockey Night in Canada version is also pretty skookum. ($420) Visit grantedclothing.com.
Vintage Canadian map pillows
Owner and maker Helen Hawketts started her small family business back in 2010, after finding an “amazing” 1932 road map of Prince Edward County. That find inspired Hawketts to start making her unique Canadian vintage map pillows. Today she uses more than 20 different maps from across Canada on pillowcases, including one featuring a map of Vancouver from 1906, just 20 years after the city was incorporated, and one of Haliburton County, circa 1944. Hawketts makes all her pillows by hand in her Toronto studio or her Prince Edward County farmhouse. The vintage-style linen pillow case comes with a 100 per cent down-filled insert. ($70) Visit vintagemapco.com.
Roots Cabin Scarf
This salt and pepper scarf by Roots Canada is inspired by the iconic work socks made famous by the hard working men and women who built this country. This wool-blend scarf is extra long for wrapping around your neck and head for warmth and features a classic red stripe. ($58) Visit roots.com.
Tragically Hip pint glasses
These 16-ounce pint glasses are wrapped with some of the Hip’s most iconic album artwork, including Fully Completely, Phantom Power, Day For Night andTrouble At The Henhouse. ($55) Visit the hip.com.
Maple syrup candle with a crackling wooden wick
Can you even be Canadian if you don’t love the smell of maple syrup? Not only do these candles duplicate that authentic smell effectively, they’re also sold in vintage-style, maple syrup cans, giving them a throw-back look sure to induce nostalgia. These are great gifts for expatriates missing home — the candles burn for about 75 hours each. ($20) Visit thegreatcanadiangiftcompany.com.
@sthomas10
