Treat your loved ones to fun, cozy, and personalized picks this holiday gifting season. | Graphic by 6AM City
Psst — It’s nearly mid-December. Finish your holiday shopping this weekend with our gift ideas:
Gifts for your significant other
Local pick: Little Pep Squad Membership | $65 | This membership offers weekly tastings, monthly recommendations from wine experts, and a free tote to rep your favorite wine club.
Full-zip flannel jacket | $36.99 | Flannel, cotton, and fleece combine in this ultra-soft, stylish hoodie.
Gifts for retirees
Local pick:Sabrina Cape | $328 | This wardrobe staple will surely make you stand out of the crowd with its elegance and sophisticated vibe – perfect for traveling or date night.
Frustrated golfer socks | $12.99 | This No. 1 best-selling pair of men’s novelty socks is sure to get a laugh.
Gifts for people who have everything
Olive oil mister | $9.99 | A handy gift they can use to turn oil into a fine mist or a steady drizzle.
Gifts for book lovers
Local Pick:Listography Journal: My Life in Lists | $17 | This unique journaling experience will spark their creative juices with classic prompts and meaningful illustrations throughout the book.
Hats off to Winston-Salem’s own Gingerbread Lady and her team for taking the win on Food Network/Magnolia Network’s new show, “Gingerbread Land.” Take a peek at Team Coastal’s extraordinary gingerbread house and get prepared to have your jaw dropped.
Concert
Wear your favorite ugly Christmas sweaters or your festive duds and sing along to your favorite throwback holiday songs during High School Reunion’s Christmas Vacation at Ramkat. The event unravels today, Dec. 12, at 8 p.m., plus benefits Samaritan Ministries’ Penny Campaign — ticket costs $21+.
Pets
Low on pet food supplies? Forsyth Humane Society and the Forsyth County Animal Shelter will distribute free pet food tomorrow, Dec. 13, at 5570 Strumer Park Circle. Drop by from 9-11 a.m. to collect food items, which will be served on a first-come, first-served basis. No registration is required.
Fun Fact
Are you a fan of WStoday’s daily games? We’ve updated the look of our Games section in the newsletter, but the crossword, word search, Sudoku, and more are still available every day.
Answered
Yesterday, we asked which fact is not true about Wilmington, and this one was a tough one for WStoday readers. Only 35% of WStoday readers answered correctly and responded “it has hosted 120 films over the years.” Technically, the Port City has hosted over 400 films. We’ll admit it… We made that one a little sneaky. Next time, we’ll play nice (maybe).
Environment
One of the year’s most brilliant meteor showers, the Geminids, will dazzle the night sky this weekend, peaking between Saturday, Dec. 13 + Sunday, Dec. 14. Grab some snacks from Washington Perk & Provisions and enjoy the dazzling view.
Health
At Novant Health, spine care goes far beyond surgery — it’s focused on helping patients get back to living fully. Through personalized treatment, individuals find relief from pain, improved mobility, and support through every stage of their journey. Explore the power of personalized spine treatment.*
Older Adults
Are you taking advantage of these stellar senior discounts? From savings with Walgreens to a discounted Amazon Prime membership, we found 20 hacks all older adults should know about to continue saving and building wealth.*
Shop
Your glasses called — they’re ready for retirement. Shop Zenni’s durable frames + advanced lenses for an upgrade, with most pairs under $80. Bonus: Take an extra 10% off with code TWW.*
Finance
If you’re paying interest on credit card debt, take this as your sign to stop. Instead,get this leading card for 18 months of 0% interest on a balance transfer. You’ll even earn cash back perks on additional purchases. Stop stressing about debt — apply now.*
Editor’s Pick
Peep the arepas and carne asada tacos on the table. | Photos by WStoday
Editor Kellina here. Seeing that Taqueria Luciano’s opened on Trade Street earlier this month, I had to make plans to check it out. The Mexican restaurant first started as a food truck and later opened its first location at 230 Reynolda Rd. in 2020. It offers options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery at both locations.
I ordered “reina pepiada arepas,” a classic Venezuelan dish, which combines avocado, mayonnaise, and chicken. The crispy exterior, combined with the soft bite in the middle, gave it a perfect balance. Every bite was smooth and flavorful, yet not too overpowering. Pair it with agua de piña (“pineapple water”) for a full immersive dining experience.
Yesterday, I took a ceramics class at Sawtooth Studio located inside the Generations Center. Instructor Kathy G. walked us step-by-step through the process of making a mug. Though I wouldn’t consider myself an artsy person, this process makes me appreciate the craft much more. Whether you’re planning a date or a solo venture, these winter classes will spark your creativity.
P.S. While you’re at the Generations Center, try the BLT sandwich from Black Coffee Cuisine. You won’t be disappointed.