As the season of giving and gathering continues, we’re reminded of the unique spirit that makes our communities feel like home. One of the simplest and most meaningful ways we can strengthen that spirit is by choosing to shop local.
When you support local shops, restaurants, and makers, you’re doing much more than making a purchase. You’re helping a neighbor keep their doors open. You’re contributing to local jobs, local families, and the character that makes our community different from any other place. Every dollar spent here has a ripple effect—circulating through our schools, services, and public spaces.
Shopping local also means discovering quality and creativity you won’t find in big-box stores or online marketplaces. From handcrafted gifts to fresh food to expert services, our local businesses offer products made with care, passion, and pride. And when you walk through their doors, you’re greeted by people who genuinely value your presence.
Check back next week in the Patriot for more offers from local merchants!
Oodles of Doodles
Pet Spa
505 North Walnut St.,
Clearwater, MN
55320
320-558-1134
Oodles of Doodles is a great place to get that special something for your furry family member. Consider a pet haircut, a nail trim, a bath or a good brushing of their teeth. Of course, if one can’t decide, just purchase a gift certificate and let the redeemer do the choosing! Gift certificates are available in any denomination.
McDonald’s Meats
Hwy. 24
Clear Lake, MN
55319
320-743-2311
McDonald’s Meats in Clear Lake has build-your-own gift boxes as well as meat packs and 13 pre-built gift boxes! They also have gift cards that make great stocking stuffers — available in any denomination!
Studio 5 Salon & Spa
13860 1st St,
Becker, MN
55308
763-390-0575
Besides treating yourself to a new hairstyle or spa relief, maybe you should pick up some candles for $20 or hats for $20 at your favorite local salon! They also have blankets and throws and shawls and shackets ranging from $6 to $40!
Brickyard Bar
& Grill
8475 Center St.
Clear Lake, MN
55319
320- 743-5540
When you are out and about shopping or tracking down a Christmas tree for one’s abode — why not stop by and get a FREE pitcher of pop or beer with one’s Christmas tree receipt from a local tree farm (with purchase of an entreé). The Brickyard also has gift certificates in any denomination!
Briggs Lake
General Store
4258 105th Ave.
Clear Lake, MN
55319
320- 743-2791
Briggs Lake General Store is a great one-stop shop for one’s Christmas shopping. Pick up one’s groceries or purchase some off-sale liquor for one’s gathering. They also have live bait and tackle, hardware items, automtive items, propane fills, fuel and so much more! Briggs Lake also has gift certificates in any denomination!
J’s Junction
14087 Bank St #3,
Becker, MN
55308
612-599-6562
J’s Junction in Becker has tons of great and original Christmas gift ideas including Christmas decor, lotion, soap, jewelry, pajamas, metal wall decor and leather goods! They also have puzzles and games for $7.99 to $24.99. Also at the Junction are Charcuterie and cutting boards starting at just $45!
Bill’s Family Foods
13400 1st St,
Becker, MN
55308
763-262-2500
Stop on by Bill’s Family Foods in the next week or so to grab some fantastic gift-giving items before they sell out. How about a lighted, frosted snowman for just $49.99? Or, Hell’s Kitchen Bakeware - a four-piece set for just $14.99. Better yet, get the six-piece Hell’s Kitchen utensil set for just $24.99!
