Let’s be real: we’ve all been there. That moment when your kid, wide-eyed and full of excitement, unwraps that must-have toy of the year—whether it’s the colossal plastic parking garage or the stuffed animal that somehow emerges from a cloud of fog like a B-list magician. It’s magical...for about a week. Then, poof! It’s collecting dust in the corner while you’re left wondering, “Was this worth the clutter?”
This holiday season, let’s break the cycle. Instead of giving more stuff, how about giving something that sticks around longer than the battery life of a remote-control car? Think experiences—those core memories with family that last a lifetime, where no assembly or AA batteries are required.
There’s science behind it: studies show that people derive more lasting happiness from experiences than material possessions. Sure, a fancy new gadget or the latest toy might cause a temporary surge of joy, but shared experiences create memories, deepen relationships, and—bonus!—there’s no clean-up involved. The glow of that special family trip or unforgettable outing doesn't fade, even when the newness wears off.
Imagine the joy on your loved one’s face when they get to spend time with you, doing something meaningful, rather than figuring out how to operate a noisy toy. You’re giving them moments, not just objects. And let's be honest, you’d probably appreciate the extra closet space, right?
Here are some top ideas for experiential gifts that will create memories instead of clutter:
Picture this: the sun rising over the Sonoran Desert, casting a golden glow over the landscape as you gently float through the sky in a hot air balloon. A breathtaking experience for couples, families, or even a group of friends, this is a memory that’ll stick long after the holiday lights come down.
In the mile-high city, it’s all about embracing the snow. Instead of another sweater, why not gift a day of ski lessons at Echo Mountain? Whether they’re total beginners or seasoned skiers looking to hone their skills, it’s an experience that’s sure to have everyone smiling, not to mention snapping epic selfies in the snow.
If skiing isn’t their thing, or if they want a different kind of adventure, a snowmobile tour through the beautiful Aspen wilderness is a thrilling gift. Zooming through powdery trails surrounded by majestic mountains? Way cooler than a pair of socks. Plus, they’ll be talking about it for years.
For the art lovers, a membership to the North Carolina Museum of Art is a gift that keeps on giving. They’ll have access to incredible exhibitions, live music events, and even outdoor movies in the summer. It’s the gift of culture, creativity, and countless enriching afternoons.
Richmond is known for its historic charm, but did you know it’s also a hub for outdoor adventure? Give the gift of adrenaline with a white-water rafting experience on the James River. A fun and exhilarating way to bond, and way more exciting than yet another scarf.
In the Live Music Capital of the World, there’s no better gift than a night out experiencing the city’s vibrant music scene. Pair that with a food tour of Austin’s legendary BBQ spots, and you’ve got a match made in heaven. It’s a feast for the senses—and not a piece of plastic in sight!
We may be a tad biased but a TULA gift card—is the actual perfect gift for everyone on your list. From organizing and running errands to researching to meal prep, TULA helps simplify life and frees up time to focus on what matters most. Thoughtful, practical, and stress-relieving!
At the end of the day, your loved ones may not remember that parking garage or the latest gizmo that they just had to have. But they’ll definitely remember that hot air balloon ride, the ski adventure, or the special concert you shared. And those memories? They’ll bring warmth, laughter, and joy for years to come—long after that stuffed animal has disappeared into the toy chest abyss. So this holiday season, think beyond the wrapping paper. Give the gift of adventure, excitement, and, most importantly, time together. Experiences are the gifts that truly keep on giving.
So, this holiday season, think beyond the gift wrap and give the gift of time, adventure, and experience. After all, isn’t that what the holidays are really about?
Happy memory-making!