Kensington’s annual holiday gift guide is back. From comic books and candle-making to spiritual consults and custom Kensington merch from Jason Kelce's Underdog Apparel, we’ve rounded up fun, offbeat, and thoughtful hyperlocal gifts that support neighborhood businesses — and maybe even inspire your cousin to get their car papers in order before the PPA strikes.
Photo by Solmaira Valerio for Kensington Voice
A membership for makers with Hive 76
Hive 76 is a maker space offering memberships for access to woodworking, electronics, laser-cutting, 3D-printing, and a 24-hour workspace.
Address: 1821 E. Hagert St. #100c, Philadelphia, PA 19125 Contact: hive76@hve76.org
Photo by Solmaira Valerio for Kensington Voice
Art and merch from Vizion Gallery
Vizion Gallery sells graphic art and merchandise from Philly artists. For custom pieces, you can commission an artist through the gallery’s owner J.C. Zerbe. Email to schedule an appointment.
Looking for hair‑care essentials or beauty gifts? K&A Hair Plus Supply offers a wide selection of salon‑grade products — from styling tools and haircare items to extensions and accessories.
BUBS is a board game cafe offering food, games for sale, and table time to play board and trading card games with friends or host parties.
Address: 102 W Berks St, Philadelphia, PA 19122 Contact: bubsphl@gmail.com Hours: Mon.–Fri. 2 p.m.–10 p.m.
Photo by Solmaira
Candle-making classes & take-home kits at Waxery
Waxery offers candle‑making classes, kits, gift cards — and a chance to make candles while sipping wine, singing karaoke and hanging out with friends. Parties welcome.
A go‑to for auto parts, tools, paint and supplies — Morris Auto Parts has served the Philadelphia automotive community since 1922. Whether you’re shopping for a gearhead or DIY driver, it’s a reliable place to find practical gifts and car‑lover essentials at fair prices.
Get a Càphê Roasters coffee subscription delivered directly to someone’s doorstep or branded merch — including a Jason Kelce collab shirt celebrating Kensington’s textile roots.
Address: 3400 J St. G1, Philadelphia, PA 19134 Phone: (215) 690-1268 Hours: Mon., Wed.–Sun. — 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
About a 10-minute walk from the Frankford Avenue corridor, Ontario Comics is worth the trip. They sell single-issue books and full volumes from both large and independent comic book companies like Marvel and Image Comics. You can also find action figures and other collectibles.
Live in Color sells all of the latest Nike and Air Jordan sneaker drops, plus Eagles and Phillies hats and hoodies.
Address: 2337 N. Front St., Philadelphia, PA 19133 Phone: (215) 425-4666 Hours: Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
Experimental records for the music lover from Great Circles
Great Circles record shop offers curated vinyl and cassettes across electronic, jazz, reggae, and experimental genres, plus apparel. Gift cards available.
Give the gift of fewer fines With Perfect Touch Auto Tags
Give the gift of avoiding the Philadelphia Parking Authority. Perfect Touch Auto Tags handles registrations, title transfers, and temp tags — ideal for anyone tired of parking tickets or long DMV lines. A practical gift for the driver in your life.
M Jewelers is a family‑owned shop crafting handmade jewelry — from classic pieces to custom designs. It’s a go‑to for anyone looking for personal, durable gifts or something special that’s made right here in Kensington.
Address: 2331 N. Front St., Philadelphia, PA 19133 Phone: (215) 634‑8448 Typical hours: Mon.–Sat. 9 a.m.–6 p.m.
Kensington born and raised, Thomas Sheridan, imports high-quality Italian-imported olive oil and balsamic vinegars. You can find them at Reading Terminal Market or on the shelf at Castellino’s Italian Market on E. Palmer Street.
Castellino’s
Address: 1255 E. Palmer St., Philadelphia, PA 19125 Phone: (215) 416‑1187 Hours: Tue.–Fri. 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat. noon–4 p.m.
Reading Terminal
Address: 12th and Arch streets, Philadelphia, PA 19107 Phone: (215) 922‑2317 Hours: Open daily, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
There’s usually a line down the block on Christmas Eve outside Stock’s for their famous cakes. The Port Richmond bakery has been family-operated for five generations, and waiting in line for their butter or pound cakes has become a tradition for many Philly-area families.
Photo by Kiara Santos for Kensington Voice
Spiritual consults and gifts at Botanica San Expedito
Botanica San Expedito sells candles, incense, oils, religious relics and ceremonial objects. They also offer spiritual consultations, readings, and medium services.
Sunny Phanthavong’s Lao and Thai Vientiane Bistro restaurant also sells small-batch chili oil — a great gift for home cooks. Order online or pick up in-store, where gift cards are also available.
Buy tickets to a show or book a rehearsal space at Jerry’s on Front, run by guitarist Chris Forsyth. Keep an eye out for upcoming shows on their Instagram and Songkick page.
Address: 2341 N. Front St., Philadelphia, PA 19133 Phone: (347) 526-3325
Vintage & thrifted gems from Circle Thrift
For bargain seekers and sustainable shoppers alike, Circle Thrift offers secondhand clothing, home goods, books and unique gifts at affordable prices. It's a great spot to find one-of-a-kind items while giving pre-loved goods a second life.
Have any questions, comments, or concerns about this story? Send an email to editors@kensingtonvoice.com. Or call/text the editors desk line at (215) 385-3115.
What began as a small salvage business in 2016 has grown into a community cornerstone. George Mathes’ Thunderbird LLC now unites Kensington through vintage treasures and local events.
On Nov. 4, Pennsylvanians will vote on whether to retain three state Supreme Court judges and will fill vacancies on both the Commonwealth and Superior Courts.
A free series includes weekly workshops running through December 13th, covering a range of housing topics–from local organizing to statewide housing policy–focused on creating “affordable and accessible” housing. All workshops are held at the Kensington Engagement Center.
