Peppermint Forest is celebrating its 45th holiday season. Photo: Ashley Mahoney/Axios
Peppermint Forest Christmas Shop has been a holiday staple for many Charlotteans for decades — the pop-up sells Christmas trees, ornaments and other holiday decor.
Context: Owner Michael Kooiman's parents founded it in 1980. They've since retired but their son keeps the tradition alive.
Most of the year, the Pineville store is Oasis Outdoor, a showroom with outdoor supplies like furniture and grills. But from early October until early January, it's Peppermint Forest.
What they're saying: "We see friends meeting here for their annual trip or three generations of family coming to see what is new (and what is the same) at Peppermint Forest!" Kooiman tells Axios.
Open Monday-Saturday from 10am-6pm and Sunday from 12pm-6pm.
My thought bubble: I recently visited Peppermint Forest for the first time and bought an ornament for a holiday party. The shop felt like a trip to the North Pole.