Give the Gift of Great Memories!

The Best Gifts Don’t Come in a Box

Give your loved ones gifts they’ll never forget. “Stuff” eventually ends up in the landfill, but memories last a lifetime. Think beyond the box and give one of these fun experiences:

  • For the sports fan
    Game tickets for their favorite team
    Tip: Minor league and college games cost a lot less than pro games and can be just as fun.
  • For the workout lover
    Gym membership, fitness class, yoga pass for a month, massage or a personal trainer session.
    Tip: Sign up yourself as well—you can be workout buddies!
  • For the outdoor enthusiast
    Buy annual County park passes or plan an excursion, like a hike along the coast or a bike tour. Don’t forget snacks!
    Tip: Create your own gift certificate and offer several dates.
  • For the thrill seeker
    Rock climbing, kayak, zipline or paddleboard outing – buy a class or rent equipment.
  • For the friend with family or for your own kids Try a day of boating, horseback riding or mini-golf. Consider a gift certificate to a local ice cream or frozen yogurt shop.
  • For the TV binge-watcher
    Give a subscription to their favorite streaming service.
  • For the gourmet
    Dinner at a special place or gift certificate for their favorite restaurant.
    Tip: It can also be a dinner party at your house!
  • For the cook
    Give a cooking class — show someone how to prepare an heirloom recipe from your personal recipe collection.
  • For the aspiring homesteader
    Class or workshop to learn pickling, canning, cheese-making and even fermentation.
  • For dancers
    Dance class coupon for salsa, tango, hip hop or belly dance.
  • For the technology buff
    Tickets to a science or tech museum or a robotics class.
  • For the tinkerer
    A subscription to a DIY online magazine in their specific interest, or welding or metalcraft classes.
  • For the movie critic
    Tickets to see that hot new movie – don’t forget to include the popcorn.
  • For lovers of live performance
    Tickets to a local music venue, theater or comedy show.
  • For the altruist
    Make a donation on their behalf to a cause or organization they care about.
  • For the commuter
    Buy a digital audiobook or give a subscription so they can pick their own.
  • For the social butterfly
    Organize a group activity like bowling, roller skating, ice skating or trivia night at your local bar.
  • For the friend you haven’t seen in a while
    Invite them out to catch up!
  • For the aspiring musician
    Instrument or voice lessons with a private teacher or a class.
    Tip: Music classes are not just for kids — community colleges offer many for adults!
  • For the wine lover
    Invite them to a wine tasting at a local winery or book a class for the more serious oenophile.
    Tip: Bring a picnic and start with a hike before you taste.

Special thanks to the Santa Clara County Recycling & Waste Reduction Division for the “Less Stuff, More Fun” campaign concept and artwork.

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