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Community Corner

10 Places to Scrounge for Last-Minute Gifts

Whether you've forgotten to buy the babysitter a gift or you need to pick up one last present, the North Fork has plenty of stores that will be open on Christmas Eve Day.

If Christmas Eve Day sneaks up on you and you've just starting your shopping, don't panic. There are plenty of businesses open on the North Fork to pick up that last-minute gift.

1. Candy Stores

Who doesn't love candy on Christmas? On the North Fork, you can stop by the Candy Man in Orient, in Greenport, Confectionary Corner in Southold, or the in Mattituck for some great gift ideas.

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2. Wineries

Many of the North Fork Wineries are open for business on Christmas Eve. Whether you are looking for the perfect bottle of merlot, shirts with your favorite winery's name on it, or a gift basket filled with local treats, North Fork wineries can fulfill your wine lover's gift list. , and in Peconic have many great gift ideas. In Cutchogue, try, , orfor wines, hand-painted glasses and wine accessories. and in Aquebogue, or are perfect stops for people on the western end of the North Fork.

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3. Radio Shack

There is no need to travel to a big box store for electronics when there is a Radio Shack next to the Whether you are looking for a remote control car, new phone, or electronics accessory, Radio Shack has a large selection.

4. Pharmacies

Whether you run into in Greenport or the Southold Pharmacy, or stop by or in Mattituck, pharmacies both large and small offer a variety gifts. Everything from toys, to cosmetics, picture frames, candy, and stocking stuffers are found down the aisles of North Fork pharmacies. Many even sell wrapping paper, cards, and ribbon to complete your gift.

5. Liquor Stores

Throughout the North Fork, small liquor stores dot the hamlet centers. Many carry wine from across the world, specialty liquors, and gift packs. Maybe the best part about shopping in a liquor store on Christmas Eve is that they wrap your gift on site and then you're good to go. Try the and in Southold, in Cutchogue, or or in Greenport.

6. Restaurants

Who doesn't like a gift certificate to their favorite eatery for Christmas? Many restaurants are open for Christmas Eve dinner and make perfect stops for those last- minute gifts. For a special night out, stop by the in Greenport, in New Suffolk, or in Jamesport. A perfect gift for family friendly fare is a gift certificate to in Southold, in Greenport, or on Shelter Island. The in Greenport andin Aquebogue are both new restaurants and are perfect for those who have never tried them before.

7. Bakeries

If you're looking for last-minute gifts to take with you, artisan bread, cookies, pastries, cakes, and pies, are all great options. in Southold, Junda in Jamesport, Peconic Baking Company in Riverhead,in Greenport and in Greenport offer a variety of different products in all price ranges.

8. Grocery Stores

Whether you want to make a customized gift basket, buy a case of beer, or buy cookware accessories, local grocery stores have a lot to choose from. Stop by in , Southold, or, in Cutchogue and in Mattituck and see what they have.

9. Clothing Stores

Specialty clothing stores dot the streets in the Village of Greenport. , , , , and all carry clothing and accessories. In Mattituck, try Renee's Women's Wear, Chap's Corner or Kid's Corner for the latest fashions.

10. 7-Eleven

7-Eleven might not be a place that pops in your mind as a great place to get gifts, but they do have gift certificates, phone cards, scratch off lottery tickets, "As Seen on TV" items, candy, beer, and other miscellaneous items perfect for a host or hostess gift or even a last-minute gift basket. With locations in , Southold, and Cutchogue, 7-Eleven is always a convenient stop and open all day on Christmas Day.

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