Dreading the thought of spending the next four weeks trying to pick out everyone's holiday gifts? Northern Express - sister publication of The Ticker - is coming to the rescue! This week's issue is the 2014 Holiday Gift Guide, the biggest edition of the year, packed with staff recommendations and curated guides for gift-giving for everyone on your list.

Features include gift guides for outdoor enthusiasts, music fans, foodies and artsy types, plus gifts that "give back" (or offer a charitable component). The issue is also chock-full of photographs of colorful wares, baubles and gifts available at stores across northern Michigan. While you're in the holiday mood, be sure to also check out the included Guide to Christmas, a detailed look at festivities taking place in various communities throughout the region in December.

This week's Northern Express also includes a Q&A with musical group The Ragbirds (performing November 28-29 at Union Street Station in Traverse City), a profile of new pourhouse Tap 30 in Petoskey, an in-depth feature on RPM Records in Traverse City – and much more! Check out the Northern Express online, or pick up a free copy at one of more than 600 distribution spots across 13 counties. And, stay connected throughout the week on Facebook.