If you’re looking to give something more meaningful than material gifts this holiday season, consider gifting an experience. These thoughtful presents create memories, foster connections, and are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Here are six unique experience gift ideas to inspire you:
1. A Weekend Getaway at an Airbnb
Help your loved ones escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life with a relaxing weekend at a cozy Airbnb. From mountain cabins to lakeside retreats, there’s something for everyone.
For families, consider properties like the Pocono Bear Den, which offers family-friendly amenities and stunning surroundings.
For couples, seek out homes like The Poconos Hawley House, that highlight the features that make for an ideal romantic escape: cozy fireplaces, luxurious bedding, scenic views, and private outdoor spaces.
If you want to take your weekend getaway up a notch, you can pair a fun, meaningful activity with your vacation or staycation gift.
Pairing meaningful activities with a getaway turns the trip into a memory-filled adventure, creating the ultimate gift of quality time, joy, and connection. Whether it’s a cozy retreat in the mountains or a fun-filled weekend in a bustling city, the key is balancing activities with moments of relaxation and heartfelt conversation.
If you need some inspiration for how to create the perfect getaway gift, read our blog all about Giving the Gift of Experience in the Snowy Poconos OR click here for a roundup of Unforgettable Outdoor Experiences in New Hampshire this Winter.
When planning your gifted getaway, remember not to overplan—sometimes the simplest moments, like sipping hot cocoa by the fire or taking a quiet evening walk, create the most cherished memories.
2. A Cooking Class or Food Tour
For the foodies on your list, a cooking class or local food tour is a gift they’ll savor. Choose a cuisine they love, like pasta-making, sushi rolling, or bread baking. If they enjoy exploring, consider booking a walking food tour in a nearby city to discover local flavors and hidden gems. To make it even more special, join them and share the experience—it’s a delicious way to create lasting memories together!
Taking part in an activity like this strengthens your friendship and deepens your bond. Stepping away from busy schedules to spend time together and learn something new not only builds stronger connections but also makes the experience even more enjoyable!
3. Tickets to a Live Event
Live events are an amazing way to give the gift of laughter, music, or shared memories that last well beyond the holidays. For my husband John and me, gifting each other comedy show tickets has become a cherished tradition. We love seeing our favorite comedians and enjoy setting aside time throughout the year to experience their hilarious acts together.
One of the great things about gifting event tickets is that the experience doesn’t have to happen right away. Whether it’s a concert, theater performance, sports game, or comedy show later in the year, the anticipation becomes part of the fun. Pair the tickets with a small gift, like a funny card or a guidebook for the city the event is in, to make the experience feel complete when they open it.
Giving tickets to a live event isn’t just a present—it’s an opportunity to create shared moments and have something exciting to look forward to, even months after the holiday season has passed.
4. Creative Classes for Everyone
Looking for a fun and inclusive gift idea? Creative classes are a wonderful way to bring people together in a low-pressure, welcoming environment. We love experiences like the House of ID holiday baking parties, where anyone—regardless of skill level—can join in the fun.
These types of classes are designed to be accessible for everyone, making it easy for participants to feel at ease and included. Whether you’re baking cookies, painting, or crafting, the focus is on enjoying the process and spending time with others, rather than mastering a skill.
Gifting a class like this is perfect for groups of friends, families, or even as a solo treat. It’s a thoughtful way to create memories, learn something new, and take home a little something special—whether it’s cookies, art, or simply a great experience.
5. Outdoor Adventures
For the adventurers in your life, give the gift of an experience that shows how well you know them. Whether it’s the thrill of ziplining, the serenity of snowshoeing through a winter wonderland, or the excitement of a guided hiking tour, the key is tailoring the adventure to their passions. For a more laid-back option, consider a scenic boat ride, a wildlife tour, or a peaceful horseback ride.
The magic of gifting an experience lies in listening to what your loved one truly enjoys and crafting a moment that feels personal and meaningful. It’s not just about the activity—it’s about showing you care enough to choose something that reflects who they are and what they love. This thoughtful approach makes the gift unforgettable, no matter the season or setting.
6. A Wine or Brewery Tour
Treat the wine or beer lover in your life to a day of tasting and learning. Book a guided tour of local wineries, breweries, or distilleries, where they can sample unique drinks and gain insights into the production process. Many tours also include food pairings, making it a delicious and memorable experience.
These six experience gifts cater to a variety of interests and ensure your loved ones will have something to remember long after the holidays are over. When you give an experience, you’re not just wrapping up a present—you’re gifting the joy of discovery, connection, and cherished memories.
P.S. If you’re curious about how we incorporate gifting experiences into our holiday shopping, check out these blogs for more inspiration:
The 4-Gift Rule (And A Peek Into How We Used It This Year)– Discover how we keep gift-giving simple yet meaningful.
Family Experience Gift Ideas – Packed with creative ways to craft fun, memorable experiences, including cozy indoor evenings!
These ideas are sure to spark inspiration for thoughtful and unique holiday gifts!
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