As the festive season approaches, it seems that holiday shopping begins sooner each year, with advertisements and store displays appearing well in advance. This year, let’s take a stand against the pervasive consumerism and decide to celebrate the holidays on our own terms.
What’s wrong with holiday gifts?
There’s nothing inherently wrong with them! The joy that comes from giving a carefully selected gift to someone dear is irreplaceable. Research has demonstrated that the act of giving can enhance relationships and foster social connections.
However, societal pressures and aggressive marketing strategies during this season can also induce feelings of guilt, anxiety, financial strain, and even harm to the environment; we often feel obliged to contribute more than we can afford—or that the planet can handle.
When combined with the stress of ensuring everything is purchased and wrapped in time for the celebrations, it creates a challenging scenario. Instead, let’s shift our focus towards the slow holiday movement, which emphasizes mindful giving rather than unnecessary consumption.
Establish new customs
- What’s more enjoyable than rushing through crowded malls hunting for the ideal gift for your best friend? Embracing the joys of the season on a nature walk with her instead.
- What might your mom appreciate more than a new cashmere sweater? The chance to prepare great-grandma’s beloved recipe together.
- What combines fun for your big sister and excitement for her children? A delightful afternoon taking your nieces or nephews for a luxurious high tea.
These instances illustrate the value of gifting experiences—gifts that enrich rather than drain. Other ideas include inviting a loved one for a cozy dinner (or cooking it yourself!), indulging in a couples’ massage, or sharing tickets to a live concert. Ultimately, time together is the greatest luxury.
Be a genuine giver
Of course, spending quality time is not always feasible. Meaningful non-material gifts can range far beyond simple gift cards, aiming for a more thoughtful approach. Consider offering your loved ones:
- a financial contribution towards educational pursuits (anything from funds for an RESP to alternatives in natural health education)
- the opportunity to try a new hobby (like a gift card for ballet, rock climbing, or pottery lessons)
- an outing with the family (such as tickets to the aquarium, a local art exhibit, or an escape room experience)
Offer your presence to the entire family
What if you face challenges finding physical gifts? Many on your gift list, particularly children, cherish the joy of unwrapping something tangible. This doesn’t mean you have to compromise on the “presence over presents” mindset; instead, enhance your experiential gifts:
- Planning a fun beach vacation with the kids? Wrap up new water shoes and a bathing suit along with a message detailing the plan.
- Thinking of gifting your brother-in-law guitar lessons? Include some printed sheet music as part of the present.
- Taking your energetic nephews on a nature adventure? Present them with a children’s book about Sasquatch, a pair of binoculars, and an invitation to search for Sasquatch together.
Expand your approach
Once you experience the joys of giving non-material gifts, you will likely discover more ways to incorporate the “presence over presents” philosophy into other areas of your holiday celebrations, such as using fabric for wrapping, creating homemade decorations, or selecting a living Christmas tree.
It’s possible to save money and benefit the environment while also finding fresh joy, excitement, and significance in the holiday season by choosing to celebrate in your own way.
This article first appeared in the December 2025 issue of up7op magazine.
