This year’s Made In Alabama Holiday Gift Guide showcases a collection of newsworthy products and unique experiences that reflect the spirit and craftsmanship of the state. These selections not only highlight local talent but also offer gifts with a distinct Alabama flair. Ellen McNair, Secretary of the Alabama Department of Commerce, expressed pride in the state’s innovative artisans, noting their recognition in national publications and excitement over their contributions to the gift guide.
For those who appreciate sweet indulgences, Pizzelle’s Confections in Huntsville stands out. This artisan chocolate shop has made headlines again, earning a spot on USA Today’s list of the 10 Best Chocolate Shops in the U.S. for the second consecutive year. Their creations, such as the striking Steel Magnolia—which features a blend of chicory and coffee—combine artistry with culinary exploration, using fair trade ingredients to create beautiful and delicious chocolates.
Alabama also boasts notable entries in the 2025 Made In America Gift Guide, compiled by the Alliance for American Manufacturing. Notable among these are Bourbon Pens, handcrafted from bourbon barrel oak in Birmingham. Each pen can be personalized, reflecting a dedication to craftsmanship that has garnered international attention. Additionally, Eufaula’s Humminbird produces advanced marine electronics, including fish finders and sonar systems that are favorites among anglers. Complementing these is Alabama Sunshine, a Fayette-based company renowned for its farm-to-table hot sauces and relishes, rooted in a recipe legacy dating back to the 1970s.
For fashion enthusiasts, Alabama Chanin’s designs present an elegant choice. Founded by Natalie Chanin, her work emphasizes sustainable design while preserving local textile traditions. Condé Nast Traveler highlighted her impact in the maker community, underscoring her commitment to craftsmanship through hand-stitched garments and educational workshops.
Food lovers will be delighted by the offerings from Little Bird, a new restaurant in Fairhope founded by chef Bill Briand. Inspired by his late mother, the establishment focuses on comfort-driven coastal Southern cuisine. Garden & Gun celebrated the restaurant and Briand’s approach to honoring his mother’s legacy, featuring her recipe for brown butter ice cream, now a featured dessert at Little Bird.
Lastly, automotive enthusiasts will find a noteworthy gift in the redesigned 2026 Honda Passport SUV. Motor Trend praises its blend of rugged capability, comfort, and value, all produced at the Honda facility in Talladega County, where workers recently celebrated the launch of the new models, including the Pilot SUV, Odyssey minivan, and Ridgeline pickup.
This holiday season, the Made In Alabama Holiday Gift Guide not only offers unique and quality gift options but also highlights the innovative spirit of the state’s artisans and manufacturers, making it a heartfelt way to celebrate local talent.