The List: Destinations
Belleville
You might think Belleville has a rich French heritage — its name is French for “beautiful town” — but its German roots rule, especially around the holidays. Park and walk along Main Street, the heart of the downtown shopping district, for a truly unique mix of boutiques, antiques stores, shops to satisfy collectors of all things and restaurants galore.
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Storybook onesies • Don’t just read to your children, let them wear your childhood favorites, too. These adorable onesies have colorful designs from storybook classics including “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” “Curious George” and “The Poky Little Puppy.” $20.00 at Circa, 128 East Main Street, Belleville.
Carousel bubblegum necklace • Gold and silver strands are so yesterday. Stand out from the bejeweled crowd with this “carousel bubblegum” necklace from the Australian jewelry maker Ruby Olive. A variety of styles — long and short, multicolored and monochromatic, and all stunning — are available. $38.00 at Circa, 128 East Main Street, Belleville.
Long mixed media sweater • Say so long to boring sweaters. You’ll stay warm and colorfully stylish in this long black sweater adorned with swirls of color and pattern. $162.00 at Basket Case, 1680 Lebanon Avenue, Belleville.
Crossbody organizer • It’s way more than a purse. This blue crossbody organizer has a slim design, but don’t let it fool you: It has pockets and compartments aplenty. It’s super soft, with stylish touches and both magnetic and zippered closures. It’s sure to keep your stuff neatly organized. $360.00 at Basket Case, 1680 Lebanon Avenue, Belleville.
Touchscreen cellphone crossbody • Ditch the big bag in favor of a smaller organizer that has room for your phone and a few other necessities. Slide your phone into the clear touchscreen compartment and you won’t have to worry about losing your phone or any functionality. $35.00 at Basket Case, 1680 Lebanon Avenue, Belleville.
Reversible jacket • Are you feeling bright and sassy, or more subdued? This reversible jacket lets you have it both ways. One side is splashed with an array of colors and patterns, while the other is classic, never-goes-out-of-style black. It’s slightly longer length gives you some extra coverage on chillier days. $218.00 at Basket Case, 1680 Lebanon Avenue, Belleville.
Rose gold rain jacket • Wet weather is no match for this rose gold rain jacket with a pink-and-gray plaid lining. Velcro on the sleeves near the wrist can be adjusted a bit tighter or looser, depending on your preference. And if the rose gold color isn’t enough to set this jacket apart, Rising Stars can monogram it for you. It is available in 12 colors. $59.95 at Rising Stars, 202 West Main Street, Belleville.
Personalized glass cutting board • Give a gift that’s functional and personal: This glass cutting board comes in multiple designs and two sizes and can be personalized in all sorts of ways. Oh, and it’s practical, too: it’s dishwasher-safe. $39.95 at Rising Stars, 202 West Main Street, Belleville.
Kiss creature “The Demon” • If you’re a Kiss fan, pucker up, because you are in for a treat. This 12-inch limited-edition stage figure is dubbed “The Demon.” Lots of impressive details just may make you want to rock ’n’ roll all night and party every day. $45.00 at Cosmic Comics, 132 West Main Street, Belleville.
Iron Man collectible • Unleash your inner superhero with this Iron Man figure from the “Avengers Infinity War” movie. The figure comes with a combat pack and 20 sounds and phrases to jump-start the fun. $37.99 at Cosmic Comics, 132 West Main Street, Belleville.
Batman collectible • Are you batty for Batman? This Batman figure was released as part of the “Justice League” gallery and shows the superhero leaping into action. $35.00 at Cosmic Comics, 132 West Main Street, Belleville.
Wooden ornament • It will feel like an old-fashioned Christmas with this intricate wooden ornament on your holiday tree. It’s been carefully crafted by a Chatham, Ill., woodturner, Michael Blankenship, who happens to be blind. $42.00 at Turned Treasures, 225 East Main Street, Belleville.
Pin oak natural edge bowl • Craftsman Richard Hinkebein turns wood destined only for burning into stunning, natural treasures. This natural edge bowl is a prime example of his lovely works. Interested in trying your hand at turned wood? Turned Treasures offers pieces like these as well as classes where you can learn how to do it yourself. $40.00 at Turned Treasures, 225 East Main Street, Belleville.
Maple Moroccan blue bowl • Don’t be fooled by the detailed and alternating patterns and stunning blue color: This isn’t a ceramic piece, but a standout maple bowl. Whether displayed on a shelf or used as tableware (dry foods only), it’s truly a conversation piece. $85.00 at Turned Treasures, 225 East Main Street, Belleville.
While you're there
Events for the holidays • The Belleville Christkindlmarkt runs Nov. 23 through Dec. 23 near downtown Belleville’s public square. Enjoy performances, demonstrations, shopping and plenty of food, including German and Polish specialties.
Santa parade • The Optimist Club of Belleville will host its annual Santa Parade on Nov. 23 at 10 a.m. This holiday spectacle features floats, bands, dancers and, of course, Santa.
Holiday music • Get your holiday music fix courtesy of the Philharmonic Society of Belleville. On Nov. 17 and 18, the group will collaborate with the Belleville School of Ballet to present “The Nutcracker” at the Scottish Rite Cathedral. On Dec. 9, a Christmas Wonders concert will be held at St. Luke Catholic Church.
Cookie day • Care for a cookie or two — or 30? On Gingerbread Cookie Day, Dec. 8, you can sample more than 30 different kinds while checking out the downtown businesses. The $10 fee gets you a cookie bag and guarantees your selections.
Lights and more lights • And definitely don’t miss the Way of Lights Christmas display at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snow. The 1.5-mile extravaganza tells the story of Christmas via lights, animals and an assortment of activities from Nov. 16 through Jan. 1.
More info
http://bellevillemainstreet.net