10 experience gifts that create memories, not clutter
If your gift list is growing but your loved one’s storage space isn’t, experience gifts might be your new best friend.
These 10 gifts focus on memories, not on objects that gather dust and will be forgotten before the tree comes down.
PSSST: If you make it to the end, you’ll see a bonus gift idea. 🙂
1. A class or a workshop
Cooking, painting, pottery, dance, music (think guitar, piano or voice), or photography lessons – even online ones. Together is even better: Sign up as a pair. Learning something together can be the most memorable part of all.
2. Tickets to something they love
Concerts, plays, ballgames, or community events – even movie passes. Tip: Tuck the tickets into a small card or print-at-home “voucher” for a personal touch.
3. Memberships or passes
Zoo, museum, or state park memberships are perfect for families and nature lovers. Bonus: Every time they go, they’ll think of you.
4. A day trip or a local adventure
Plan a picnic, a hike, a day (or simply an afternoon) in a nearby small town. Make it personal: Add a handwritten itinerary or “adventure map” to make it feel extra special.
5. A dinner – homemade or out
Treat someone to their favorite restaurant, or invite them over for a meal you make yourself. Is takeout all you can manage? That’s totally OK! It’s the company, not the meu, that makes this a gift.
6. A subscription box or an online experience
From coffee tastings to book clubs to “paint night” kits, experiences can arrive right on their doorstep. Just for fun: Don’t forget the Jelly of the Month Club! As Cousin Eddie said to Clark Griswold: “It’s the gift that keeps on givin’ the whole year.”
7. A day of service together
Volunteer as a family or with a friend – at a food pantry, an animal shelter, or a church outreach. Shared purpose can be one of the best gifts of all. If kids are involved, even better.
8. A “yes day” for kids (or adults!)
Give the gift of letting them choose the day’s activities – within reason, of course. Bonus: It costs almost nothing but earns lifelong memories. This gift works great for parents or grandparents to give to kids.
9. A DIY spa or relaxation day
Set up candles, music, and homemade bath salts or lotion bars. Perfect for moms, teachers, or anyone who never takes time for herself.
10. A memory jar or “adventure fund”
Give a jar with notes or a few dollars labeled: “Use this for our next fun day together.” Even anticipation becomes part of the gift.
BONUS GIFT IDEA: Family movie night basket
If you love the thought of giving time together, this gift idea will get you started:
Fill a large popcorn bowl or bucket with unpopped kernels or microwave packets, movie-size candy, some soft drinks (two liter or a few cans) or cocoa packets. Add this tag: “Good for one cozy night in.”
Want more ideas like this? Check out 10 family night gift baskets that make memories
