With the holidays almost upon us, here are a few items to consider:
—Samsung items: Some people may just think phones and computers when they think of Samsung, but the company offers so much more. For example, there's the EVO Plus microSD 128GB—a perfect gift for gamers and consumers looking for additional storage for game consoles like the Nintendo Switch, PCs, smartphones and more. And I've personally used Samsung TVs and Blu-ray players for years—but check out the 55" Neo QLED QN90A 4K TV; with all its bells and whistles, $1,599.99 will seem like a bargain. See www.samsung.com/us/ .
— Eataly: Chicagoans can either walk on over to 43 E. Ohio St. or join the public in shopping at www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/chicago/ . Either way, you'll find an abundance of intriguing items for your favorite foodie or cook. In Eataly's holiday market, you can shop a variety of gift boxes, each with its own theme—from regions of Italy to breakfast, sweets, pasta and more. Plus, there are incredible wine and olive-oil selections. (Honestly, I can't think of a place that has more of the latter.)
—The Hulu shop: Ah, Hulu—land of shows such as American Horror Story and Love, Victor… Visit shop.hulu.com/ to find some pretty cool items—and they're not limited to current shows. For instance, there are some very fun Golden Girls items—and who wouldn't want a Blanche-themed "Ho, Ho, Ho" T-shirt?
—Gag gifts from Bigmouth, Inc.: Every year, I receive gag gifts as well as more appropriate/serious presents—but I've learned to give as well as I get, thanks to companies such as Bigmouth Inc. (www.bigmouthinc.com ). There are some intriguing novelty items, like a cat-shaped wine glass, a drag-queen garden gnome or a microphone soap on a rope.
—WNDR Museum's "Winter Wonderland": Instead of purchasing an item, how about an experience? Through Jan. 2, Chicago's WNDR Museum, an immersive art and technology experience, invites guests to immerse themselves in the magic of the holiday season. On Friday, Dec. 17, at 7 p.m., "WNDRland of the Sweets" will take place; guests can enjoy an array of holiday treats from acclaimed chef Stephanie Izard's Sugargoat throughout their museum experience and immerse themselves in a Nutcracker-inspired holiday realm for all ages. See www.wndrmuseum.com .
—Andrew Davis
