We're here to make your holiday holly, jolly, and bright with this list of gift giving ideas and holiday celebrations. Hopefully, this guide to giving handcrafted gifts will alleviate some of the shopping stress and instead inspire and generate some excitement.

This list is not only perfect for gift giving, but for tourists looking for a unique souvenir to take home. We promise to provide you with some ideas that will make any trip to St. Landry Parish, Louisiana unique and memorable.

Let's get started with some shopping events to add to your calendar. Small Business Saturday is coming up on November 24, and it's the perfect time to find good deals on gifts. Also, we have some special events planned that day that just might put you in the Christmas spirit.

We have two events taking place on Small Business Saturday, Grand Noel & The Lighting of the Oaks. Grand Noel is a special treat for those who've never been to Grand Coteau, Louisiana. The town welcomes guests with a stunning life-size nativity scene, carriage rides in the historic district, and lots of opportunities for shopping. The Kitchen Shop is a good place to start if you're looking for Louisiana themed items such as tea towels, aprons, or cooking ware. Handmade accessories and more unique items can be discovered at Petite Rouge Antiques & Organics.

Later that day, the town of Opelousas will light the oaks at Courthouse Square for the Lighting of the Oaks. Downtown shops will be open with special discounts and area artisans will be selling handcrafted items. Stick around for kids crafts and Christmas carols from Our Lady Queen of Angels Church Choir.

If you're doing some last-minute shopping visit the town of Sunset. While you're there, stop at Boho for a very large collection of hand-crafted items. In fact, Boho carries Key of Z Rubboards, a fun instrument used to play zydeco music. These metal instruments are made by local craftsman, Tee Don Landry. Find hand-painted items next door at The Funky Flea. Just be sure to make time to visit Jerilyn's Fused Glass Art Gallery. Jerilyn is inspired by nature depicting thm in glass.

Meet the makers at NUNU Arts & Culture Collective in Arnaudville, Louisiana. At this studio, you can often meet the craftsmen who are featured in the gallery. Find handcrafted canvases designed by local wood craftsman, Larry Bourque. Also, find metal sculptures, jewelry, and locally made skin care items. While you're in Arnaudville, it's the perfect time to visit Bayou Teche Brewing which just might have the best gift on this list—craft beer. That's right; you can stock up on a variety of different ales and even keep some for yourself at this local micro-brewery.

Hopefully, this article gives you a good head start for the holidays. For more shopping ideas visit, our shopping page, and for more holiday events visit our list of Christmas festivities.