Writing this week about the many indie holiday shopping events coming up in the Twin Cities (see listings here). So many places to soak up the season without battling the throngs at the mall, and so many ways to support local artisans and independent companies making cool, often one-of-a-kind, edgy items. Many will be on display this weekend at the MNfashion Holiday Bazaar. Like, um, these, from Maybe You Should Die:

You won’t see them pictured in the St. Paul Pioneer Press this Sunday…but know that it’s not just pretty jewelry at these crafty events.

Whether the goal is giving a boost to Twin Cities retailers and artists (who could really use it this year), reducing your carbon footprint, buying something more unique than the mass merchants sell or all of the above, shopping local is not only thoughtful, it's trendy this holiday season. Of course, AliShops.com is here to help you find the best of local shopping week in and week out.  But here are a few other resources for holiday shopping:

Made in Minnesota Gift Guide - A directory of hundreds of Minnesota-based artisans and locally made products of all kinds.

Textile Center Holiday Show & Sale – Featuring jewelry, art, mittens and more made by dozens of local designers.

MNFashion holiday boutique – Clothing, accessories and more from local designers.

Blue Sky Guide – A "Happenings" book for the tree hugger in your life. Featuring coupons for eco-friendly dining, travel, entertainment, shopping and more.

Etsy.com - You could spend the entire month searching around this site, but narrow it down with a search for Minnesota-made products – you'll find some great stuff.

This weekend in particular, several events highlight locally made gifts: No Coast Craft-o-Rama, Landmark Center Holiday Bazaar, Grand Meander, and the events go on and on. Click here for all the details.