Let’s face it – nobody needs another scented candle or a pair of fluffy socks. If you’re tired of watching friends and family fake-smile their way through unwrapping yet another gift bought with “I have no idea what to gift” in mind, it’s time to shake things up. Experience-based gifts have become the perfect solution for Christmas gift exchange games, as they promote shared moments and deeper connections. Plus, they offer a fun and creative twist to holiday gift exchange games.
Ready to dive into the world of experience gifts? Here are 15 gift exchange ideas to turn your holiday gift exchange from “oh… thanks” to “OMG, I LOVE IT!”
Adventure Experience Exchange
Whether you’re planning a family gift exchange for Christmas or an office holiday party, give your loved ones a gift they’ll really rave about! Skip the sweater and go for adventure experiences instead. We’re talking about full-on adrenaline rush like zip-lining through treetops, scaling rock walls, or floating in a hot air balloon with the most breathtaking views they’ve ever seen.
Culinary Class Swap
For the friend who thinks they’re the next Gordon Ramsay, these unique Christmas exchange ideas are pure gold. Think culinary experiences like fun cooking classes, wine tasting sessions, or food tours that let them eat their way through culture and history. Your Christmas gift exchange ideas for adults could include a private pasta-making workshop, a sushi class, or even a cocktail-making session—perfect for anyone who loves a good meal (or drink).
Wellness Retreat Exchange
Know someone who’s been under a lot of stress lately? Make your Christmas gift exchange games memorable with a slice of zen! Whether it’s a spa day, meditation retreat, or yoga workshop, give them the gift of actually sitting still for more than five minutes without checking their phone.
Concert or Theatre Ticket Swap
Looking for creative gift exchange ideas? Sometimes the best gift exchanges involve an excuse to wear real pants and pretend to be sophisticated for an evening. Whether it’s concerts, theatre shows, or comedy nights, it beats another night of Netflix asking if they’re still watching.
Art and Craft Workshop Exchange
For your art loving friends who come up with a new DIY project every week, these gift exchange ideas for Christmas are perfect. Think pottery classes, painting workshops, or any other creative endeavor that promises to turn your loved ones into the next Picasso (results may vary).
Outdoor Adventure Passes
Know someone who can’t stop talking about the nature? Whether it’s hiking, camping, or visiting a national park, these Christmas gift exchanges are ideal for anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors. From annual park passes to guided wilderness tours, give them the gift of adventure.
Fitness Class Swap
If someone in your group is always looking for ways to stay fit, a fitness class might just be the perfect addition to your Christmas gift exchange games. Whether it’s a dance workshop, a kickboxing class, or a spin workout, these experiences help recipients meet their fitness goals while having fun.
Language or Skill Learning Exchange
These gift ideas for Christmas exchange are for the curious who always find the joy of learning something new. Think language courses, photography lessons, or that weird hobby they’ve been threatening to take up.
Virtual Experience Exchange
Perfect for when you want to experience something amazing without changing out of your pajamas. Your Christmas gift exchange ideas for families can include virtual cooking classes, online escape rooms, or digital museum tours – the possibilities are endless, and pants are optional.
Host a video call exchange where everyone uses backgrounds that hint at their gifts.
Volunteer Experience Swap
Because sometimes the best gift exchanges involve helping others (and feeling smugly superior about it). Exchange volunteer experiences at animal shelters (like pandas!), community centers in exotic countries. Fair warning: If you’re volunteering at an animal shelter, someone will definitely try to adopt everything.
Personalized Tour Exchange
Make this holiday gift exchange game special for your history buff or culture enthusiast with a personalized tour is the perfect gift. Think about town’s best-kept secrets, food markets and exploration, or a historical site adventure.
Adventure Sports Experience
For the adrenaline junkies in your annual gift exchange who make everyone else nervous. Up your gift exchange game with adventure experiences like scuba diving, surfing lessons, or anything else that requires signing a waiver. These experiences are designed for those who love pushing their limits and trying something new.
Cultural Immersion Exchange
Why not explore a new culture this holiday season? Unique Christmas gift exchange ideas can include experiences like a traditional dance class, a local festival, or a cooking workshop that introduces the flavors and customs of a different culture.
DIY Home Improvement Workshops
For the friend who watches too much DIY videos, these ideas for Christmas gift exchange will do the trick. Up your gift exchange game with workshop experiences in woodworking, gardening, or home decoration.
Stargazing Experience Swap
For dreamers, astronomy (or astrology) geeks and those who find peace in the night sky, a stargazing experience or a visit to a planetarium could be the perfect gift. These awe-inspiring experiences give recipients a chance to gaze at the stars and learn about the cosmos.
Need to see more?
Still don’t know what to get? Let’s make it easy for you. Tinggly offers four unique gifting options, each one tailored to help newlyweds start their forever with unforgettable experiences:
- Experience Gift Boxes: 10,000+ experiences worldwide, from thrilling adventures to relaxing spa days. They can pick what resonates most with their interests — because the best gifts are the ones that match their vibe.
- Getaway Gifts: the ultimate dream escape with over 10,000 hotel stays worldwide. Whether it’s a one- or two-night stay, they can choose a destination they’ve always dreamed of exploring.
- Tinggly Gift Card: The most flexible option. You let them decide with a gift card that gives them the freedom to choose from a world of experiences and hotel stays.
- Individual Experiences: individual experiences let them pick a specific adventure, from cooking classes to skydiving.
And here’s the cherry on top: These gifts are sustainable and never expire—so they can choose when and where to make memories that’ll last a lifetime.
Why settle for another pair of socks when you can give the gift an adventure?