5 merry little Midtown Village Christmas shopping ideas

With the clock ticking fast and the holiday literally right around the corner, this is the final weekend to get that gift shopping done and avoid a merry meltdown! Midtown Village, located on 12^th and 13^th streets in Center City, has the answer to all of your last minute shopping needs.

1. Fill the stocking with Drunken soap from Duross and Langel

Ever thought of lathering up your body with a rich coffee porter? How about cleansing with some nice pumpkin ale? Well, these unique soaps are sure to get your body feeling good in more ways than one. This year, Duross and Langel introduced handmade Yards Soaps. The bars ($7.50 each) are modeled after the brewery and beers they are based on, so the pale ale carries citrus and coriander while the Cape of Good Hope brims with honey and notes of grapefruit. Also try the Horny Drunken Goat Soap (this aint you're mama's eggnog). They make awesome stocking stuffers.

2. Philadelphia Chef's Table Cookbook at Open House

Sure, anyone can go and grab a gentrified cookbook at the nearest Barnes and Nobles (are there any left?) for those foodies in your life. That said, here's one better. The Philadelphia Chef's Cookbook ($24.95) is a beautiful glossy ode to all of the fantastic restaurants in Philly. The book features recipes from dozens of first -rate restaurants in the city of brotherly love including Vetri, Amada, and Morimoto. Put on your chef's hat and try to replicate the delectable orange carrot marshmallow soup from Supper or the infamous cheesecake from Lolita.

3. Jingle Bell Rock these homemade totes from We Heart Philly

Sometimes the best gift to give is one that is created, distributed and sold locally. We Heart Philly features dozens of hand-crafted items from t-shirts to mugs to fabulous totes. The totes ($19-$26) come in various etches, including maps of Philly, listings of famous street names, pictures of local icons, and more. There is also a wine tote, the perfect way to dress up a bottle of wine or liquor. Also available at Open House.

4. Rejoice to Santa's little helper at Doggy Style

If you are a pet owner, then Christmas is a time to splurge big on your little (or large) bundle of slobbery joy. Even if you do not own a dog, there is a strong likelihood that you have a close friend or family member with a pet. Doggie Style is the hip, trendy urban answer to Petco. This is the go-to pet headquarters for all of your companions must have accessories. Cute outfits, high-end plush toys, cologne, hair gel. The sky is the limit. Woof!

5. Deck the halls with holiday treats from Philly Cupcake

Many of us will be attending holiday parties this year, and won't have seven hours to spend baking delicious cupcakes. Philly Cupcake has just the right sugar and spice to add to the bland dessert experience. Holiday cupcakes ($4) include Gingerbread, Eggnog, and a devil's food cake with Oreo Mint Frosting (it comes in Vegan too!). There also a variety pack of 12 mini holiday cupcakes ($15) that is absolutely perfect for any spread.  Add some class to your family gathering, and put those boxed cake wannabees to shame!