Minneapolitans know that the Linden Hills neighborhood is one of the city’s best kept secrets. Its tree‑lined, charming commercial corridor radiates a small‑town feel inside the city — an ambiance that suits holiday shopping perfectly. Local retailers thrive on the thoughtful shopper: those looking for unique, less‑mass‑market items. That lines up beautifully with a holiday event geared toward gifting and discovery.
Where and When
On Thursday evening, December 18th from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., New Gild Jewelers will host their eighth annual Holiday Wine & Stroll, an event that brings together shoppers from near and far to enjoy the quaint boutique blocks of Linden Hills. Centered at the intersection of S Upton Ave. and W 43rd St., expect twinkling lights, carolers, seasonal décor, and friends old and new discovering locally made goods, fine art, libation tastings, artisanal treats and thoughtfully curated gifts.
A Must Visit
New Gild Jewelers’ one-of-a-kind fine jewelry gallery and studio will delight you with diamond and gemstone items crafted one at a time, each for the love of a stone. Unlike big box stores that need a large quantity of identical pieces, they shop gem shows and visiting vendors for stones that speak to them. They liken the stones to a chord progression, from which they will write a hopefully beautiful song. They interact with these treasures both physically and holistically to determine the best use of their beauty, without preconceived limitations on what can be achieved.
Owners Jen Bellefleur and Kelsey Lee-Karol have an eye for diamonds and gems that are beyond the ordinary. Their design skills and onsite craftsmanship defy clichés, creating totally unique and beautiful pieces that sparkle and inspire. Find something for someone you love, or find something for yourself – and they’ll tell Santa!
New Gild has both a gallery of gorgeous ready-to-give as well as full custom capability and repair and restoration of old jewelry, too. They can use your old jewelry to gently upcycle the materials into something that suits your style today, as well as something that will become a future heirloom.
newgild.com | 612-402-0561 | 4300 Upton Ave. S, Minneapolis
Shop, Stroll, Eat
Beyond the holiday rush, this event is a chance to invest in a hyper local economy, made up of independent shopkeepers and service providers where neighborhood delight is all part of the experience. Local retailers include a clothing store, an art gallery, coffee gifts, a Tibetan store, toy and craft stores, and more. Wonderful service providers include everyone from aestheticians to massage therapists, and holistic practitioners to coffee roasters. A libation or a quick bite are available at the neighborhood’s plentiful food and beverage destinations – why not finish with an ice cream cone?
Whether you’re after a special gift, a cozy stroll among lovely storefronts, or just want to soak up the neighborhood spirit while supporting small business owners, this event promises to deliver. Mark your calendar, invite a friend, and make a day of it.