Find Unique Gift Experiences for Birthdays or Holidays
Going beyond the gift card for unique gifts.
Because my family stinks at keeping secrets, I knew about my Christmas present back in September. But I’m not upset. My husband bought tickets to see Wicked, the Broadway musical, in Los Angeles on New Year’s Eve! He also bought two tickets for my parents, who will be visiting at that time.
While I couldn't wait to see the show, the best “experience” gift I’ve ever received is an “Award for a Camping Trip” made by my two daughters. It is framed and hanging on my wall. It’s a present that was created by hand and given from the heart.
This year, consider giving the people on your list a gift that helps them learn something new, takes them to an interesting place or brings you all together. Regardless of whether the economy is good or bad, the best gifts are the ones bought with time and wrapped in thoughtfulness.
Here are some ideas to get you started:
Gifts for Children & Teens
The animal lovers in your family will appreciate the “Adopt an Endangered Animal” gift. In return for a monetary donation, your child will receive a stuffed animal or T-shirt and a certificate and photo of the adopted animal.
- Amusement park pass
- Art class, plus paints and brushes
- Camping trip
- Concert tickets
- Dolphin encounter at Sea World (or other behind-the-scenes event)
- Instrument lessons, plus rented instrument and music book
- Movie tickets
Gifts for Spouses/Partners
Support your spouse or partner with a class or workshop in an area of interest, such as cooking, pottery or photography. It’s an offer they can’t refuse when you’re willing to stay home with the kids! Or give a gift you can enjoy together.
- Bed and breakfast weekend
- Cooking class, with festive apron or cookbook
- Dining cruise (brunch, dinner, sunset)
- Food or wine tasting tour
- San Diego brewery tour
- Spa treatment
- Trolley tour
- Wine appreciation class, plus a bottle of wine
Gifts for Friends & Family
My parents still talk about the year I gave them a gift card for Southwest Airlines. While there is always a standing invitation for them to visit, the gift card made the long-distance travel a little easier.
- Airplane tickets or a gas card for a visit
- Costco membership
- Gift of the Month Club membership
- Museum membership
- Restaurant gift card
Gifts of Service
Plan time with your loved ones to give time and energy to others this holiday season.
- Create “coupons” for a free car wash, dog walking or lawn care service
- Free babysitting for a family with young children or a new baby
- Give an elderly neighbor rides to appointments or the grocery store
- Shop for toys, toiletries and clothes for children in need
- Volunteer together at a food bank or soup kitchen
“Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give.”
– Eleanor Roosevelt
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Ronni Rowland is a freelance writer.
