(BPT) – Giving and receiving gifts over the holidays is a tangible representation of how much people care for each other. However, sometimes the best presents are not physical objects. By gifting your friends and family experiences, you can make memories that last longer than the latest and greatest video game or toy of the season.
Here are some inspiring ideas on how you can spend time together and make memories this holiday season.
1) Learn together
Participating in an activity together is a great way to gift your family members a holiday memory they’ll cherish for years to come while learning a new skill. Have you ever wanted to learn how to rock climb, surf, kayak or throw an ax? See if your friends want to join you and reserve a session over a holiday weekend. Maybe your spouse has expressed an interest in woodworking, or your teen has developed a passion for cooking. You can encourage these interests by signing up for a workshop. By trying something new and learning a new skill together, your family may discover new passions and hobbies that you can continue to enjoy together.
2) Take a trip
Whether you want to escape to warmer climates this winter or revisit your favorite cold-weather activities, a holiday getaway gives your family the perfect opportunity to bond, take exciting photos and collect funny anecdotes you’ll tell again and again. Check online listings for vacation rentals in locations that everyone will enjoy.
Kalahari Resorts and Conventions, home of America’s largest indoor waterparks, is an excellent option for a family-friendly holiday getaway. You can stay at any of the four resorts located in Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin; Sandusky, Ohio; Poconos Mountains, Pennsylvania; and Round Rock, Texas. Each location features a full-service spa, a family entertainment center, signature dining options, retail shops, and, of course, an indoor waterpark. There’s something for everyone all under one roof, so relax and enjoy a vacation everyone is sure to remember.
3) See a show
The holiday season is a great time to check out what your local live performing arts scene has to offer. During the holidays, you’ll find productions of famous plays and musicals put on by local and traveling companies, including holiday-themed classics like “A Christmas Carol” and ballet performances of “The Nutcracker.” If there’s a Broadway production your family has been wanting to see, it may be coming to your area during the holiday months.
Also, make sure to check live music performances. Maybe it’s time to introduce the kids to your favorite rock band or let them introduce you to the pop stars they have been listening to. Perhaps you can all try something new and attend an orchestra performing classic holiday music. Whatever you choose, you’ll be singing songs and quoting lines from shows to each other long after the holidays are over.
4) Gift an experience for later
Gift cards or certificates are a great way to gift experiences when your schedule doesn’t allow you to easily plan activities with your loved ones. Has your niece mentioned she wants to play guitar? She’ll be thrilled when she opens your card and sees you bought her lessons. If you don’t know what musical your friend is looking forward to seeing, check with your local theaters for gift certificates for their upcoming season. You can also purchase gift cards to Kalahari Resorts to treat your family to a future trip they can look forward to that fits in their busy schedules.