Christmas Shopping Need Not Be Pricey

Amid the struggling economy this holiday season, many shoppers will likely realize that some of the gifts they wish to purchase for their loved ones are out of their price range.

So, Douglaston Patch has a few ideas on gifts suitable for children and adults that won't break the bank and can be found at local stores.

Peak Bicycle Pro Shop

42-42 235th St, Douglaston

Phone:  718-225-5119

At Peak's Bicycle Pro Shop, you can find everything from your child's first bike with training wheels to bicycles for recreational use or exercise.

With the purchase of a bike, Emmerson guarantees a "lifetime of free service." Customers can receive between 25 percent off between now and Christmas.

Strawberry's Sports Grill

42-15 235th Street, Douglaston

Phone: 718-587-8787

Strawberry's Grill offers gift certificates that can be redeemed at any point in time. Food at the grill includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, shakes and steaks.

The owner, former Mets slugger Darryl Strawberry, has been known to stop by the restaurant to chat with customers. For a complete menu, visit Strawberry's online.

Douglaston Plaza Shopping Center

24202 61st Ave, Douglaston

Located off the Long Island Expressway, the Douglaston Plaza Shopping Center offers a variety of options, whether you are looking for last minute deals on items for a sports fanatic in Modell's Sporting Goods or gifts for gifts for the young ones at Toys R Us.

Discounts at the center are as high as 40 percent off this holiday season. 

"It is convenient for me instead of [the] city," said Anna Halkidis, a Long Island resident who shops at the plaza.

"I like it better since I like to shop at Macy's and its pretty much closer to home, so it's more convenient, even though the city would have more choices of merchandise," said Mark Cordero, a resident of Queens Village.