We have officially entered the holiday season and now is the perfect time to get your shopping done early and support the local businesses that make Long Beach special. From Belmont Shore to the East Village Arts District to Bixby Knolls, these shops offer a diverse range of products and experiences for every shopper. Here are some standout establishments you won’t want to miss:
Cityology
Image via Instagram: @cityology.lb
Cityology, a women-owned business, has been a beloved fixture of Belmont Shore since 2016. This lifestyle store is a treasure trove of gifts, home goods, clothing, and unique finds like singing bowls and Swell water bottles. A sister store to City Lights Street Wear, both located on 2nd Street, Cityology also offers an extensive collection of men and women’s clothing, cards, soaps, pet supplies, and jewelry. As the holidays approach, make sure to visit their website for a peek at their distinctive collection of ornaments and holiday decor that will add a touch of magic to your festivities.
Cityology is located at4718 E 2nd St, Long Beach, CA 90803
Website: city-ology.com
Songbird
Image via Instagram: @songbird_boutique
For those seeking one-of-a-kind gifts with an edge, Songbird is the ultimate destination. Founded by Jennifer Hill, this boutique is a visual delight, exuding joy in every nook and cranny. The store is meticulously curated with novelty, edgy, and locally made items, including clothing, bags, jewelry, home goods, toys, socks, mugs, and cards. Shop here for that eccentric friend or family member, and don’t forget to use the 10% off code when you visit their online store. With Songbird’s organized sections and themes, finding that perfect, unique gift has never been easier.
Songbird is located at 2240 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90814
Website: songbirdgoods.com
Plantitas
Image via Instagram: @plantitas
Owned by members of the Queer and POC community, Plantitas is a plant shop nestled in Belmont Heights. This spacious, colorful haven offers a selection of indoor houseplants, stylish planters, and hand-crafted plant hangers. Beyond plants, you’ll also find an array of accessories and apothecary items. Plantitas is also a community hub, actively giving back through its Plantiitas Values program and hosting pop-ups to connect local entrepreneurs with the community. Can’t settle on the right plant for a loved one? Share the gift of growth this holiday season with Plantitas’ e-gift cards instead, available for a minimum of $20 on their website.
Plantitas is located at 2011 E 4th St, Long Beach, Ca 90814
Website: plantiitas.com
Pixie Toys
Image via Instagram: @pixietoyslb
Step into PIXIE TOYS, a magical wonderland for children and a haven for baby gifts. With products carefully separated by age, finding the perfect toy for your little one is a breeze. From Sonny Angels to Smiski figurines and Miffy plushes, they cater to all ages. Explore a wide selection of toys, puzzles, games, and an extensive array of books, ensuring your child’s wishlist is fulfilled. Plus, enjoy complimentary gift wrapping for that extra touch of holiday magic.
Pixie Toys is located at 3914 Atlantic Ave Long Beach, CA 90304
Instagram: @pixietoyslb
Fingerprints
Image via Fingerprints Yelp page.
Located in the heart of the East Village Arts District, Fingerprints is an 8,000-square-foot shrine to music and pop culture. For music lovers, this is a paradise filled with an eclectic selection of records, CDs, cassettes, and more. Whether you’re into indie, jazz, hip hop, punk, soul, or R&B, Fingerprints has every genre you’re looking for. If you can’t find what you need, their staff is happy to help you order it to the store. In addition to music, browse through their collection of t-shirts, tote bags, posters, books, DVDs, patches, stickers, and pins to complete your music-themed holiday shopping.
Fingerprints is located at 420 E 4th St Long Beach, CA 90802
Website: fingerprintsmusic.com
Bel Canto Books
Image via Instagram: @belcantobooks
Have a bookworm for a friend or family member? Bel Canto Books has got you covered. Located along 4th Street Retro Row, Bel Canto Books is a Filipina-led indie bookstore with a passion for celebrating books by women and people of color. This thoughtfully curated store is housed in The Hangout, a collective of small businesses. Explore a selection of fiction, nonfiction, and children’s books, all organized around a theme of the month. If you’re in Bixby Knolls, be sure to visit their newest location inside KUBO LB. Don’t forget to also check out their engaging events, from author meet-and-greets to workshops and children’s storytime. Plus, you can join their monthly book clubs, held online and free to attend.
Bel Canto Books is located at 2122 E 4th St, Long Beach, CA 90814
Website: belcantobooks.net
This holiday season, let’s make a difference by choosing to support these exceptional local businesses. By doing so, we not only find unique gifts but also contribute to the vitality of our community. Happy holidays and happy shopping!
