Christmas approaches at a great pace and at the SDÉCB, we are spoiled by the numerous entrepreneurs who come to our services.
Shop local for this year’s festivities! On this occasion, we invite you to travel with us through our beautiful province, discover unique talents, and find your Christmas gifts among these local artisans. This year, we have decided to highlight our province by region, zooming in on 4 geographic zones: the South-West of British Columbia, Vancouver Island, the Okanagan, and the North of British Columbia. For each region, our team has chosen a favorite that they particularly appreciate.
- South-West of British Columbia: Spanning from the US border to Whistler in the north, with the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Fraser Valley to the east, this region represents the heart of the province. In a few kilometers, you’ll find the green lung of British Columbia, four world-renowned ski resorts, some of which have hosted the Winter Olympics, hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails, farmers’ markets, fascinating museums, and over a hundred French-speaking tourist businesses.
- Our pick of the day : Trip Poster: Trip Poster Design is a design company founded in 2020 in Vancouver. Their vintage travel posters highlight beautiful neighborhoods and cities across Canada, particularly iconic landmarks in British Columbia. They offer over 70 designs in various formats (posters, small prints/cards), frames, calendars, magnets, and more! Lovely gift ideas for landscape lovers of British Columbia. 💎 -10% with the discount10 code at checkout.
- Our mention “and if you’re on site” : Bon Macaron Workshops – And if you impress the audience by learning to make macarons? Discover the secrets of delicious pastries by donning the apron at Bon Macaron! More than just a boutique, this institution of macarons offers private or group workshops regularly.
- Our pick of the day : Trip Poster: Trip Poster Design is a design company founded in 2020 in Vancouver. Their vintage travel posters highlight beautiful neighborhoods and cities across Canada, particularly iconic landmarks in British Columbia. They offer over 70 designs in various formats (posters, small prints/cards), frames, calendars, magnets, and more! Lovely gift ideas for landscape lovers of British Columbia. 💎 -10% with the discount10 code at checkout.
- Vancouver Island: A natural paradise, the island combines wild beaches, rainforests, and majestic mountains. You can ski, hike, and surf, and cross paths with a diverse fauna. Victoria, the provincial capital, charms with its historic architecture and gardens. The island is ideal for nature and culture lovers.
- Our pick of the day : Forest for Dinner – Nature and environment enthusiasts, let yourself be enchanted by this company dedicated to discovering the treasures that nature offers. At the helm of this adventure, Celia and Ben, two nature lovers, will be delighted to initiate you to foraging while treating you to teas, homemade jams, pickled products, and wild mushrooms, which you can also buy on their online store. A gourmet and immersive experience in the heart of nature.
- Our mention “and if you’re on site” : Beyond Sailing : Beyond Sailing, based in Campbell River, is a company specializing in unforgettable sailing experiences on the Pacific coast. The company offers personalized excursions and educational cruises, highlighting marine exploration and discovering exceptional natural landscapes, while promoting environmentally responsible practices.
- Our pick of the day : Forest for Dinner – Nature and environment enthusiasts, let yourself be enchanted by this company dedicated to discovering the treasures that nature offers. At the helm of this adventure, Celia and Ben, two nature lovers, will be delighted to initiate you to foraging while treating you to teas, homemade jams, pickled products, and wild mushrooms, which you can also buy on their online store. A gourmet and immersive experience in the heart of nature.
- Okanagan & Kootenays: The Okanagan is renowned for its vineyards and natural beauty, with spectacular mountain and lake landscapes. The region is also a dynamic center for skiing, mountain biking, and wine tourism. To the east, the Kootenays offer a variety of outdoor activities and a thriving arts scene. These regions also welcome an active French-speaking community.
- Our pick of the day : Water Over Leaves – Did you know that the Okanagan is not the only wine region in the province? Near Prince George, you can not only admire the magnificent northern lights, but also taste original wines made from rhubarb, raspberry, blueberry, and other fruits. A unique experience to live on site or to offer, available for purchase online for you or your loved ones.
- Our mention “and if you’re on site” : Western Canyoning – For adventure seekers and water sports enthusiasts! Don’t miss the opportunity to explore canyons and jump into crystal-clear natural pools. Very few companies offer canyoning activities in British Columbia, yet the landscapes you’ll discover during this experience are simply breathtaking. A memorable adventure, accessible to all levels, for unforgettable memories in the heart of nature.
- Our pick of the day : Water Over Leaves – Did you know that the Okanagan is not the only wine region in the province? Near Prince George, you can not only admire the magnificent northern lights, but also taste original wines made from rhubarb, raspberry, blueberry, and other fruits. A unique experience to live on site or to offer, available for purchase online for you or your loved ones.
- North of British Columbia: This vast wilderness region charms nature lovers with its mountains, lakes, and forests. It’s an ideal playground for skiing, canoeing, and hiking. Wildlife enthusiasts will observe animals such as caribou and brown bears. The North is also rich in indigenous traditions, offering an authentic and welcoming experience for French-speaking travelers.
- Our pick of the day : Northern Lights Wines – Did you know that the Okanagan is not the only wine region in the province? Near Prince George, you can not only admire the magnificent northern lights, but also taste original wines made from rhubarb, raspberry, blueberry, and other fruits. A unique experience to live on site or to offer, available for purchase online for you or your loved ones.
- Our mention “and if you’re on site” : Pillsbury Guest house – Want to treat yourself or offer a seaside stay? Stay at this charming guest house dating back to 1909, with your feet in the water at Prince Rupert. A true haven of peace, ideal for nature lovers seeking calm and tranquility. A perfect destination for relaxation while immersed in the beauty of the wild coast.
- Our pick of the day : Northern Lights Wines – Did you know that the Okanagan is not the only wine region in the province? Near Prince George, you can not only admire the magnificent northern lights, but also taste original wines made from rhubarb, raspberry, blueberry, and other fruits. A unique experience to live on site or to offer, available for purchase online for you or your loved ones.
So follow us on the rediscovery of our regions, travel while staying comfortably at home, and why not, think about buying local gifts!
A great news for your Christmas shopping! 🎁
This year, you can make your Christmas shopping while saving! Thanks to the announcement of November 21, 2024 concerning the exemption of the GST/HST from December 14, 2024 to February 15, 2025, many products will be exempt from tax, including meals in restaurants, children’s toys, books, and even Christmas trees. This is a great opportunity to consume locally while supporting our French-speaking businesses.
NB: You are a business and are not yet in our directory of French services? It’s never too late! Contact us directly via this form to integrate the platform.