It's the days before Christmas, and all through the Caldwells ... restaurants and shops are gearing up for the holidays with some great last minute gift ideas, specials and cool stuff to make the season merrier!

Thursday Dec. 23, Calandra's Italian Village is offering 20% off of gift cards, which can be purchased and used in any of the shops and restaurants within the village in Caldwell. The Italian market and deli sells a selection of beautiful pre-made gift baskets in all price ranges, as well as fresh cookie trays that the bakery is making daily. You can also visit the wine store, La Cantina, for the wine drinker on your list. Pair it was some cheese and crackers for a great gift to bring to the celebration.

Stop into Rockn' Joe for a frozen or warm hot chocolate and don't forget to pick up gift cards in any denomination. You can make the gift even more special by pairing it with one of their bags of whole roasted coffee beans. The bags range from $10.95 to $15.95, depending on variety, and make a great gift for the sitter or that special friend you love to meet for coffee.

Cupcakes Galore in West Caldwell has four must-try cupcake flavors this season–gingerbread, peppermint, hot chocolate and eggnog. At $3.25 each, they are a yummy treat that will delight all ages. Want another flavor, but still want to keep it festive? They also offer traditional flavors with tree, snowmen and other designs. The bakery also carries gingerbread cookies for $2.25 and gingerbread houses for $39.

When you go to Clearview's Caldwell Cinema IV in Caldwell, purchase a $30 gift card and receive a $5 concession coupon that can be redeemed between Jan. 1 until Feb. 28, 2011. If you buy a $60 gift card, you receive a complimentary movie pass that is valid on Monday through Thursday from Jan. 3 until Feb., 28, 2011. Gift cards can be purchased at the box office and can be used for all admissions and concession purchases.

A favorite local hang out, Cloverleaf Tavern, 395 Bloomfield Ave., is offering $5 off of a $50 gift card purchase if you mention that you saw the offer on the Patch. They are open until 9 p.m. this Christmas Eve. and don't forget to try the seasonal ale, a cherry red Troegs Mad Elf ale. It's a combination of cherries, honey and chocolate malt with subtle spices, in a festive red color that will certainly get you in the spirit this season!

Of course a gift card to a favorite restaurant in the Caldwells is always an appreciated present. Browse the restaurant directory for ideas.