Most of us have enough things—more toys than the kids can play with, more clothes than we actually wear, and shelves that are already full. So instead of adding to all that, why not give an experience instead? Read on for a huge list of ideas...

EVENT TICKETS

There are options for every budget—don't forget about minor league or college sports teams, and college theater or dance performances. Sometimes employers offer discounted event tickets. And look for Black Friday deals too.

sporting events

play, musical, opera, ballet, or symphony tickets

concerts (look ahead to summer when more artists are on tour)

Disney on Ice

monster truck rally

the circus

LESSONS / THINGS TO LEARN

Think about your recipient...have they ever mentioned wanting to learn how to cook, or knit, or play golf? Why not give lessons or supplies?

cooking kits for kids (Raddish Kids, Foodstirs, KidStir)

cooking supplies for kids (tool set, cookbook, baking set, junior knife set)

cooking classes for adults

tennis or golf lessons

craft classes (sewing, knitting, etc.)

makeup or hairstyling lesson

MEMBERSHIPS

Know a kid who loves the zoo? Or maybe your sister loves art? A membership is something your recipient can use all year long.

zoo

museum (art, science, history, etc.)

pool (indoor year-round, or think ahead to summer; wrap with a fun beach towel)

aquarium

amusement park

EXPERIENCE GIFTS

A memorable day or weekend beats something that sits on a shelf every time...

brewery or distillery tour

wine tasting

night in a hotel (maybe provide babysitting if the gift is for parents of young kids?!?!)

train ride (or helicopter tour, or hot air balloon ride...)

spa day

pedicure gift certificate (extra fun when packaged with a pair of cozy socks!)

ACTIVITIES

There are so many options here! Think about your recipient—you're bound to come up with a place they like to go or something they like to do.

indoor rock climbing

indoor play space for kids

trampoline park

movie theater tickets

bowling

ice skating

fitness class passes or punchcard

miniature golf

archery

pottery studio

DONATIONS / SPONSORSHIPS

Do you know a kid who's passionate about animals? Or an adult who'd rather give than get? Someone who's passionate about education? There are so many charitable gift options available...

sponsor an animal internationally or locally (World Wildlife Fund, Best Friends)

sponsor a child (Children International)

provide school supplies for children in need (Unicef School in a Box)

GIFTS THAT FUEL A HOBBY

Ok, I know, these are all things—but they're a little more unique and contribute to an experience or activity. ;)

sewing machine

camping gear

telescope

photography equipment

skiing equipment

beer brewing supplies

ENTERTAINMENT

Audio books, movies, tv shows...there are so many subscriptions options you're sure to find one to suit everyone.

Audible

Disney+

Netflix

HBO NOW

movie theater memberships for people who really love the movies

SERVICES

Sometimes the best gift is not having to do something. Take a dreaded chore off someone's list and give them the gift of time. Or gift something they already pay for and free up cash they can use for whatever they want. (Bonus: if they're already buying it, it's a pretty safe bet they like it!) For example, I love for my car to be clean, but I loathe cleaning it myself. I'd always rather receive a gift certificate for car detailing than another sweater or set of pajamas. (hint, hint!) What could be a better gift than freeing up time or money?

car detailing

cleaning service

home organizing (sorry, couldn't resist!)

meal delivery

THINGS THAT GET KIDS OUTSIDE OR ACTIVE

Ok, yes, these are also things, but they're also things that promote activity vs. being just another toy.

sleeping bag

watch / fitness tracker (this is a favorite in our house)

trampoline (small and indoor or large and outdoor)

swing set (or other playground equipment)

sled

scooter

bike

basketball hoop

TIME TOGETHER

Last but not least, sometimes the best gift you can give is special time together. Think parent/child, your spouse, grandparent/grandchild, aunt or uncle/niece or nephew, best friend, siblings, etc. It can be expensive or not—whatever fits your budget. Nothing says "you're special to me" more than giving someone your undivided attention. Need ideas?

visit the Lego store and then build all afternoon

go shopping and have lunch

get tickets to a show and go out for fancy cocktails

plan a movie marathon or game day with fun snacks

have lunch & get pedicures

take a lesson together

visit a museum, zoo, aquarium, etc.

paint pottery

go for a hike

Hopefully you've found some fun ideas on this list. Happy gift-giving!