©Stephane Ribeiro Da Ascencao The Calais XXL holiday gift selection
Christmas is coming, with its many pleasures and moments of sharing. One of them is giving and receiving gifts. The ultimate is the quest for the perfect gift, the one that makes eyes sparkle and faces light up. In this search, what could be more authentic than offering a gift from the region? Between authenticity, local know-how and touches of originality, discover gift ideas that celebrate the soul of our region while responding to an ethical and responsible approach. So let's rummage around in all directions in a few aisles of Calais city centre!
Small budget, big inspiration!
The pleasure of giving is priceless, and yet there are treasures accessible in Calais! Island Counter (Calais Cœur de vie Shopping Center, Boulevard Jacquard), let yourself be surprised by a selection of locally made objects and souvenirs, perfect for small and large budgets. A showcase of the solidarity economy, you will find a sharp but varied selection of artisanal products, local takeaways and original creations such as screen prints of the illustrator artist Thibault Caradec, local products and even designer jewelry for a guaranteed effect during the holidays.
©Stephane Ribeiro Da Ascencai 
©Stephane Ribeiro Da Ascencao CHRISTMAS ON PARADE
The new illustration by renowned poster artist Stephan Muntaner
It has become a real tradition, Calais is reinvented according to the seasons by the eye of the artist Stéphan Muntaner. This winter again, he succeeds in capturing the essence of a visit to Calais in this magnificent poster in the format 40 x 60 cm. Getting it is child's play, it is available at the shop of the Calais XXL Tourist Office at 12 Boulevard Clemenceau.
Still in town, for original gift ideas for all budgets, between stationery, decoration and youth, particularly of local origin, we recommend the very pretty boutique of The Pretty Tribe, also in the heart of the city at 40 Rue Royale. For example, you will find there all of Wim's poster assortment for a charming nod to our beautiful Opal Coast.
To find the essentials of the region for all budgets, the shops of the Tourist Office (12, boulevard Clemenceau) and the Dragon Company (avenue Winston Churchill) are worth a visit! At the Office, for the youngest, don't miss the posters telling stories of the Calais brand Cooloriages. And not to forget, on the Dragon de Calais side, the gift par excellence remains a box of the eponymous beer brewed locally in two recipes: Blonde or Flavored White!
©Stephane Ribeiro Da Ascencao Beautiful books for reading by the fireside
For good addresses, we also recommend the excellent Channel bookstore. Two books have been added to the long list of works devoted to Calais, yesterday and today!
“Calais, from its origins to the present day” is THE book to have at hand to have the rich history of the city. Written by a collective of local historians, this chronology is devoured like a novel, from the Kaleis of the Middle Ages to the arrival of the Dragon of Calais.
"Chimeras and other fantastic animals" compiles all the drawings of the wonderful creatures of François Delaroziere. This beautiful book also tells the myths surrounding each of them. One part is devoted to Long Ma, the Dragon horse who passed through Calais in 2016… Moreover, for the fervent admirers of the local urban theater which is celebrating its 30th anniversary, the book is decorated with a photo of Long-Ma on the West Basin of Calais. A must-have under the tree available at the Tourist Office and at the Dragon Company.
©Stephane Ribeiro Da Ascencao Pleasure jewelry, textiles and crafts
Courgain maritime and lace… names that have a particular resonance in the ears of the people of Calais! The local designer Dorothée Vantorre (The Crazy Marquises) has designed a range of jewelry and accessories for women and men relating to these major aspects of Calais' heritage. Necklaces, bracelets, brooches or cufflinks? It's the desire of the moment that will decide!
Offering a gift related to lace? In Calais, it can be considered classic, or already seen. Not at all! In the Bordeaux region, we don't treat ourselves to a good bottle of the local produce? At the City of Lace and Fashion, stop by the store Lace Ideas. Clothing and accessories, jewelry, decorative objects, books or simple pieces of lace, there is something for all budgets and with a wide choice.
©Stephane Ribeiro Da Ascencao Calaisfornia
More than textiles, a style!
Calais saw the birth of its lifestyle brand, supported by two entrepreneurs that every good Calaisian knows! A true marker of belonging to a very Calaisian spirit, it is more than a fashion, in every sense of the word! First of all, Calaisfornia is not ephemeral. The brand has been established for several years to the point of having its city center boutique at 45, rue Royale. On the other hand, this ongoing adventure has offered the time and talent to develop the departments: winter and summer textiles, accessories. Whatever the occasion, inspiration is often found at Calaisfornia!
Discover the Calaisfornia store
A festive local menu!
For a festive table with the colors and flavors of Calais XXL, it is possible to rely on local products in your festive menus that will delight your guests. As an aperitif, the terrines of the Huchin House based in Coquelles and the salting of the Fournier and Sons House are essential, just like the salty flavors of the seafood products offered by the Peasant woman of the seas, ideal for refined starters. Finally, for refined advice on the right cheese to offer, head to the House of Cheese and Wines (Place d'Armes) or the Philippe Olivier Cheese Factory (Rue Gutemberg) in Calais.
To accompany your meals or celebrate in a friendly atmosphere, the craft beers of the Bon-Vent Microbrewery, Dragon Company or, The Ascetic of Afapei will bring a touch of character. Finally, finish on a delicate note with an exceptional coffee signed the Cafetoria accompanied by a delicious 'Marckois' and the tasty coffee and almond cake 'Le Calais', easy to find in local pastry shops and perfect for a gourmet break with family or friends.
©Stephane Ribeiro Da Ascencao