Holiday Guide and Shopping Season
Holiday Events
2024 Midlands Christmas Arts & Crafts Market
Nov. 3, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. South Carolina Farmers’ Market, 3483 Charleston Highway, West Columbia. experiencecolumbiasc.com/ event/2024-midlands-christmas-arts-%26-craftsmarket/71812/. 803-553-4912. jamie@midlandscrafters.com.
Carlisle Street Holiday Art Stroll
Saturday, Nov. 9, noon-4 p.m. 3140 Carlisle St., Columbia.
HISTORIC COLUMBIA
Holiday House Tours
Nov. 14-Jan. 5. Wednesday-Saturday noon and 3 p.m.; Sunday 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. $15-$18 (Members free). Tours begin at the Robert Mills Gift Shop, 1616 Blanding St., Columbia. historiccolumbia.org/holiday-house-tours. 803-252-7742 ext. 23.
Candlelight Tours
Friday, Dec. 6, 6-9 p.m. $8-$20 (member discounts available). Robert Mills House and HamptonPreston Mansion, 1616 Blanding St., Columbia. historiccolumbia.org/events/2024/2024-12/ candlelight-tours. 803-252-7742 ext. 23.
Fireflies Holiday Lights
Nov. 15-Jan. 4, 6-9 p.m.$10 to $12. Segra Park, 1640 Freed St., Columbia. firefliesholidaylights. com. 803-726-4487. info@columbiafireflies.com.
Wild Lights at Riverbanks Zoo
Nov. 15-Jan. 12, 5-9 p.m. 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia. riverbanks.org/events/wild-lights.
KOGER CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical Nov. 19-21, 7:30 p.m. $22.50 to $75. Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene St., Columbia. kogercenterforthearts.com/event/dr-seuss-howthe-grinch-stole-christmas-the-musical/.
“A Celtic Christmas” by A Taste of Ireland
Friday, Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m. $39 to $69. Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene St., Columbia. kogercenterforthearts.com/event/a-celticchristmas-by-a-taste-of-ireland/.
Boston Brass & the Brass All-Stars Big Band: Christmas Bells are Swingin’! Sunday, Dec. 1, 4 p.m. $35 to $58. Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene St., Columbia. kogercenterforthearts.com/event/boston-brass%c2%b7-christmas-bells-are-swingin/.
Garland Holiday Concert
Friday, Dec. 6, 7:30-9 p.m. Free. Shandon United Methodist Church, 3407 Devine St., Columbia. sc.edu/study/colleges_schools/music/concerts_ and_events/calendar/index.php.
Sandlapper Singers’ Merry and Bright Monday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m. Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene St., Columbia. sandlappersingers. org/concerts-main/2024-2025-season/
Historic Columbia offers tours throughout the season.
A Magical Cirque Christmas
Tuesday, Dec. 10, 7:30 p.m. $19.50 to $79. Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene St., Columbia. kogercenterforthearts.com/event/a-magicalcirque-christmas/.
South Carolina Ballet’s Nutcracker
Saturday, Dec. 14, 3 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 15, 1 and 5:30 p.m. ; Saturday, Dec. 22, 3 and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 23, 3 p.m. $30 to $60. Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene St., Columbia. kogercenterforthearts.com/event/nutcracker/.
SC Philharmonic’s Home for the Holidays
Thursday, Dec. 19, 7:30 p.m. $12.50 to $55. Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene St., Columbia. kogercenterforthearts.com/event/home-for-theholidays/.
Live in the Lobby Jazz: Eve of the Eve with the Mark Rapp Group
Monday, Dec. 23, 7:30 p.m. $23 to $28. Koger Center for the Arts, 1051 Greene St., Columbia. kogercenterforthearts.com/event/live-in-thelobby-jazz-eve-of-the-eve/.
Vista Lights
Thursday, Nov. 21, 6-10 p.m. Free. 1200 Lincoln St. Columbia, SC 29201. vistacolumbia.com/specialevents/vista-lights. 803-269-5946.
Columbia Children’s Theatre’s Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr.
Friday, Nov. 22, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Nov. 23, 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 24, 3 p.m. $15. Brookland Cayce High School, 1300 State St., Cayce. columbiachildrenstheatre.com/rudolph-the-rednosed-reindeer-jr-tickets.
NEWBERRY OPERA HOUSE
All shows at Newberry Opera House, 1201 McKibben St., Newberry.
Christmas at Xander Point film 2 and 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22. $10. Tea with the Sugar Plum Fairy 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1. $40. Nutcracker Ballet
4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1. $25 to $65. Nashville Noel
3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7. $35. Mike Farris Sings the Soul of Christmas Sunday, Dec. 8. 6 p.m. $50 to $60. It’s A Wonderful Life film
Thursday, Dec. 12. 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. $10. Newberry College Tuba Christmas Saturday, Dec. 14. 3 p.m. Free.
Jim Brickman’s Comfort & Joy
Sunday, Dec. 15. 3 and 7 p.m. $25 to $65.
Christmas with CS Lewis
Tuesday, Dec. 17. 7 p.m. $64.
A Holly Dolly Christmas with Katie Deel
Thursday, Dec. 19. 3 p.m. $20 to $55.
The Polar Express film
Friday, Dec. 20. 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. $10.
The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical
Nov. 22-Dec. 21. Trustus Theatre, 520 Lady St, Columbia. trustus.org/event/the-great-americantrailer-park-christmas-musical-2/.
GREATER CAYCE WEST COLUMBIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Holiday Love Local Lighting Ceremony
Monday, Nov. 25.
Movie Double Feature
Friday, Dec. 13, 5 p.m. gates open; 5:30 p.m.: Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas; 7:30 p.m.: The Nightmare Before Christmas. BrooklandCayce High School football stadium, 1300 State St., Cayce.
Parade Day
Saturday, Dec. 14, noon: North Pole opens at the Chamber Office, 1006 12th St. Cayce. Noon to 4 p.m.: Hop on, hop off holiday shuttle to visit the business districts of Cayce and West Columbia. 5:30 p.m.: Annual CWC Holiday Parade of Lights.
Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker
Wednesday, Nov. 27, 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 29, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, 3 p.m. $17.50 to $23.50. Township Auditorium, 1703 Taylor St., Columbia. thetownship.org/events/?event_id=8778.
Annual Blythewood Christmas Tree Lighting
Sunday, Dec. 1, 5 p.m. Town of Blythewood, 171 Langford Rd., Blythewood.
COLONIAL LIFE ARENA
Pentatonix: Hallelujah! It’s a Christmas Tour
Sunday, Dec. 1, 7 p.m. $25 to $550. coloniallifearena.com/events/detail/pentatonixhallelujah.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Thursday, Dec. 12, 7 p.m. $49 to $109.99. coloniallifearena.com/events/detail/tso2024.
Columbia College Christmas Tree Lighting
Monday, Dec. 2, 6 p.m. columbiasc.edu/about/ events/christmas-tree-lighting-0.
Town of Irmo Tree Lighting Ceremony
Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6-8 p.m. Irmo Town Park, 1249 Lexington Ave., Irmo.
THE HOLIDAY SEASON AT TRINITY EPISCOPAL CATHEDRAL
All events at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, 1100 Sumter St., Columbia. Advent Festival
Sunday, Dec. 3. 4 p.m. $10 for wreath-making. Cathedral, Trinity Center. Email to RSVP: krankin@trinitysc.org.
St. Nicholas Day Party
Wednesday, Dec. 6. 5:30-6:30 p.m. Satterlee Hall. Kids’ Movie & Cookie Night
Friday, Dec. 8. 5:30-9 p.m. Trinity Center gym.
TheCityofWestColumbiainvitesyoutoHeadWestfortheHolidays
Startyourholidayshoppingoffintherightdirection
If you are looking for the perfect gift, head to West Columbia to find the oneof-a-kind businesses that will help make your season bright.
Sip, Dine, Stroll, and Shop in West Columbia River District State + Meeting Sunset Blvd Triangle City Augusta Road
Handel’s Messiah
Sunday, Dec. 10. 4 p.m. $15 to $45. Cathedral. trinitysc.org/events/handels-messiah.
Candlelight Carols & Cocoa
Wednesday, Dec. 20. 5:30 p.m. Cathedral lawn.
The Polar Express at the Sumter Opera House
Thursday, Dec. 5. 5:30 p.m.: Cocoa, cookies and letter writing. 7 p.m.: Movie showing. $11 to $16.50. sumteroperahouse.com/thepolarexpress
Midlands Clay Society Holiday Sale
Thursday, Dec. 5, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Friday, Dec. 6, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 7, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Stormwater Studios, 413 Pendleton St., Columbia. stormwaterstudios.org/event/midlands-claysociety-holiday-sale/.
CHRISTMAS IN CAYCE
46th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony
Thursday, Dec. 5, 6 p.m. Cayce City Hall, 1800 12th St., Cayce.
City of Cayce Drive-Thru Lights Dec. 5-31.
Carols Along the Riverwalk
Friday, Dec. 6. 6-8 p.m. Cayce Riverwalk (201 Naples Ave. Cayce.
Christmas Olde and New
Saturday, Dec. 7. 6-9 p.m. Cayce Historical Museum, 1800 12th St., Cayce.
Parade Day and Holiday Parade of Lights
TBA
Holiday Market — Junior League of Columbia
Dec. 5-8, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. SC State Fair Grounds 1200 Rosewood Dr., Columbia.
A Nice Family Christmas
Dec. 5-7 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 8 at 3 p.m.; Dec. 12-14 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. $18 to $20. Chapin Theatre, 830 Columbia Ave. Chapin. chapintheatre.org/a-nice-family-christmas-2024. html#show.
West Columbia’s 20th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
Friday, Dec. 6, 6:30 p.m. Cayce City Hall, 1800 12th St., Cayce. westcolumbiasc.gov/west-columbiachristmas-tree-lighting/.
DUTCH FORK CHORAL SOCIETY
Lake Murray Presbyterian Church concert with the Blythewood High School Chorale
Friday, December 6, 7 p.m. 2721 Dutch Fork Rd., Chapin, SC 29036
Mt. Horeb Lutheran Church concert Sunday, December 8, 4 p.m. 101 E. Boundary St., Chapin.
Columbia SantaCon 2024 4-11 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7.
2024 Pine Ridge Christmas Parade Saturday, Dec. 7. 4 p.m. Free. townofpineridgesc.com/announcements. ddavis@townofpineridgesc.com.
Trinity Episcopal Cathedral presents Handel’s Messiah on Dec. 10.
HARBISON THEATRE AT MIDLANDS TECHNICAL
COLLEGE
A Christmas Carol presented by Columbia Children’s Theatre
Saturday, Dec. 7. 2 and 6 p.m. $15. harbisontheatre. org/events/christmas-carol.
Swingin’ Holidays presented by SC Jazz Masterworks Ensemble
Sunday, Dec. 8. 3:30 p.m. $25 to $50 harbisontheatre.org/events/swingin-holidays.
The Two Claras 2024
Friday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 14, 6 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 15, 2 p.m. $21.87. harbisontheatre.org/events/two-claras-2024.
Santa’s Swingin’ Christmas Party
Dec. 7, 14, 16 and 21. A collaboration between Columbia Marionette Theatre and the Columbia Jazz Foundation. 401 Laurel St., Columbia. cmtpuppet.org/shows/santas-swingin-christmasparty/.
Palmetto Chamber Orchestra Holiday Concert: Columbia Celebrates!
Sunday, Dec. 8, 4 p.m. Johnson Performance Hall, 1014 Greene St., Columbia palmettochamberorchestra.org/index.php/20232024-season/. 803-252-7366.
ARTS CENTER OF KERSHAW COUNTY
South Carolina Ballet’s Nutcracker
Tuesday, Dec. 10. 7:30-10:30 p.m. $15 to $30. artscenterkc.org/ac/nutcracker-by-south-carolinaballet/.
Dick Goodwin —
A Holiday Big Band Night
Friday, Dec. 13. $15 to $25. artscenterkc.org/ac/ dick-goodwin-a-christmas-big-band-experience-2/.
A Celtic Christmas ft. Emmet Cahill
Thursday, Dec. 12. 7 p.m. $40. Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 1301 Richland St., Columbia. patronsandfriends.org.
Accessibility Morning:
Meet Santa and the Grinch
Saturday, Dec. 14, 9 a.m. SC State Museum, 301 Gervais St., Columbia. 803-898-4921.
Santa’s at Sesqui 5k
Saturday, Dec. 14. 10 a.m.-noon. 9564 Two Notch Road, Columbia.
First Baptist of Columbia presents the 37th Annual Columbia Christmas Pageant
Saturday, Dec. 14. 2 and 4:30 p.m. First Baptist of Columbia, 1306 Hampton St, Columbia. Columbia Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl
Saturday, Dec. 14. 4-11 p.m. pubcrawls.com.
Toast to Tomorrow
New Years Eve Bar Crawl
Tuesday, Dec. 31. 6 p.m. Columbia, locations TBA. Euphoria New Year’s Eve Soirée
Tuesday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m. Suite Sixty, 9221 Two Notch Road #60, Columbia.
New Years Eve Cover Show: Chappell Roan, Queen, Lady Gaga, David Bowie
Tuesday, Dec. 31, 7 p.m.-2 a.m. $15 to $20. New Brookland Tavern, 632 Harden Street, Columbia. newbrooklandtavern.com.
SC Jazz Masterworks Ensemble presents Swingin’ Holidays on Dec. 8.
This Year’s Best TECH GIFTS
BY LISA IANNUCCI
Thereare only a few short weeks until the holiday season so it’s time to make a list and check it twice. If you need help with your holiday shopping, we have some great ideas for those who love everything tech.
Smart Notebooks and Planners: This is number one on my list and will be number one on your list, too. With these Moleskine smart notebooks and planners, the user has the best of both worlds. For those who love the feel of writing in a notebook, they can still do that. But then, as the user writes, their handwritten notes instantly appear on the screen.
The notebooks come in different sizes and can be lined or unlined. As for the planner, write down your goals and your daily schedule, and it will appear on your calendar app. Currently, it retails for $27.95 and up.
Ray-Ban Meta: Ray-Bans first came on the market back in 1936. Earlier this year, the company released the most
recent high-tech model, the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer. These smart glasses are in high demand. Whoever looks cool wearing them can use their voice to talk to Meta AI, capture memories, make calls, send messages, listen to music, livestream, and more. The recipient will feel like they just stepped into a Hollywood blockbuster movie for $329.
MegaPuff Solar Charger: We all know someone who always asks for a charger or loses their own. This MegaPuff Solar Phone and Charger is a perfect gift for that person. It can be twisted and pulled to shape it differently or laid flat.
The great thing about this light is that it charges phones and tablets, so it is perfect for outdoor travel and even emergencies. It was invented, in particular, for disaster relief. It also comes with 8-10 hours of charging in bright sunlight and is a water-resistant cube. Imagine that your charger can change shapes, is water resistant, and that you never have to worry about your phone again. You can get this as a gift or buy one for yourself starting at $47.60.
Steam Deck: It might have come out last year, but the Steam Deck is still one of the hottest gaming products this year. Gamers probably have this at the top of their wish list, and they will love how it’s capable of playing large, modern games like Elden Ring and Baldur’s Gate 3. Gamers in your life will also love that it is a fully functioning Linux PC, so it’s very customizable. There are a few model options based on storage and screen options, such as 64GB and 512GB. The cost ranges from $300 to $650.
make a copy with this gadget. Print it on a sticker and upload it into your planner, journal, or scrapbook. It comes with three rolls of 50mm-53mm thermal sticker paper starting at $29.99.
Mini-printer: Forget the printer cartridges. This small mini-printer uses thermal printing. Find something small you want to copy in a notebook, and you can
Bag Saver: Toss the chip clips and forget about wrapping rubber bands around the bags from now on. Instead, this inexpensive bag-saver gadget seals the chips until they are as good as new. This 2-in-1 is also a bag cutter and costs an affordable $32.99. No more throwing out those bags.
Smart Flower Pots: They came out last year, but if you missed their debut, you might want to add them to your shopping list. It’s a new way of making your plants come to life. With the animated expressions, the Masdio Flower Pots are absolutely adorable. Plants aren’t included in this unique gift. Once you decide what plant you want, add some soil to the smart pot and place the original plant in the pot. Add the pebbles and the water before inserting the plant. Turn it on, and it has sections where you ‘hug’ your plant. Starting price is $78.80.
Order early to account for shipping constraints. Happy holidays! n
Best White Elephant or Secret Santa gifts to give this season
BY ERIK J. MARTIN
Areyou planning to participate in a gift exchange with family, friends, or coworkers? Whether it’s a Yankee Swap or a Kris Kindle, the pros agree that it’s smart to consider the type and cost of any gift exchange present you expect to purchase.
“Selecting the right gifts for a White Elephant or Secret Santa exchange is crucial, as it ensures the gift will be appreciated and enjoyed rather than regifted or discarded,” says Mohan Babu, a savings specialist at Dealhack.com. “These exchanges set the tone for the entire holiday event, making it important to choose items that resonate with a broad audience. Remember that a well-chosen gift reflects your care and consideration, contributing to the overall festive spirit.”
Kayden Roberts, a relationship coach and gifting expert, says the fun of Secret Santa and White Elephant exchanges is about finding that sweet spot between humor, surprise, and thoughtfulness.
“It should be less about the price tag and more about creating a moment of laughter
or delight that everyone remembers,” she says. “When you nail the gift, it becomes the highlight of the party — sparking conversations and setting the tone for a lighthearted, fun gathering.”
If you’re buying for a White Elephant exchange — in which the presents are typically wrapped but unlabeled and anonymously bestowed — event planner Kirill Basov recommends choosing gifts with broad appeal to avoid awkwardness.
“Things like Bluetooth speakers, gift cards to popular stores, or gourmet snacks are usually crowd-pleasers,” says Basov. “For my company’s White Elephant last year, I bought a mini karaoke microphone, which ended up being the most stolen gift of the party.”
Carla Nina Pornelos, general manager of Wardnasse, suggests buying a deluxe notebook or fancy coffee for your Yankee Swap, as “they’re both useful, nice, and appreciated — gifts that virtually anyone would like.”
Conversely, Babu recommends novelty kitchen gadgets, such as a unique coffee mug warmer or funnyshaped spatula, as ideal gifts.
“Or, gift a portable phone charger, which is always appreciated in our digital age, or board or card games like Uno or Codenames because they encourage group interaction and can be enjoyed by people of all ages,” continues Babu.
Meanwhile, Roberts is partial to products that are both quirky and universally appealing.
“Think conversation starter gifts like a retro popcorn maker or a mini desktop cornhole set, which are fun, a bit random, and something that almost anyone can enjoy,” says Roberts. “Another hit is a funny mug paired with hot chocolate or coffee: it’s practical but with a twist of humor or charm.”
For an ideal Secret Santa gift, focus on tailoring your trinket to the person you’re buying it for, especially if you know the recipient.
“If they are a foodie, a gourmet spice kit or a unique set of hot sauces can be a winner. If they’re into self-care, consider a cozy blanket or a set of essential oils. Personalization is key here — choose something that aligns with their interests but still has a bit of festive flair,” Roberts adds.
Babu’s Secret Santa wishlist includes a monogrammed notebook or custom keychain and other personalized gifts that “add a thoughtful touch which makes the present feel unique.”
Give a gift card to the recipient’s favorite store or restaurant for a risk-safe option. No muss, no fuss.
“Or, consider presenting a good novel as a Secret Santa gift,” advises Rasa Urbonaite, an event organizer professional with Breezit. “Books are thoughtprovoking and accessible to a wide audience and demonstrate that you gave some consideration to what the recipient would enjoy.”
Urbonaite cautions against presenting fragrant gifts like scented candles as a Secret Santa or White Elephant gift, “as several people might have allergies or sensitivities to strong scents. “
Additionally, Roberts recommends curbing the impulse to gift awkward presents, such as a gag gift that could miss the mark, personal items like skincare, or anything too extravagant that might make others feel uncomfortable about what they spent.
Lastly, Babu advises against any items that reflect strong opinions, “such as gifts related to politics, religion, or anything that might spark controversy. n
Best holiday gifts for neighbors, coworkers, and ACQUAINTANCES
BY ERIK J. MARTIN
Asweater
for Dad — check. A Barbie playhouse for little Tina — check. A new iPad for Brad — check. A fruit basket for your boss — check. You’re in pretty good shape when it comes to the holiday gift list. But chances are you’ve overlooked some key names on that checklist: the folks you may not immediately think of when it comes to gift-gathering but who rate a high ranking on that recipient inventory. That includes trusted colleagues, friendly neighbors, and service providers like your mail carrier or landscaper.
Rasa Urbonaite, an experienced event planner with Breezit, believes that all of these candidates justify being present.
“You should give holiday presents to your neighbors, especially if they are elderly or if you have a close relationship with them. Coworkers, service providers, and merchants with whom you encounter frequently, such as your postal carrier for the owner of your favorite business, are also good options,” she says.
Jodi Blodgett, a gift advisor and professional photographer, seconds those sentiments.
“Even the smallest gestures can make a big impact on these folks. A warm
greeting, smile, and quick thank you along with your gift can help brighten someone’s day during the busy holidays,” explains Blodgett, who adds that you don’t have to break the bank here. “Focus on strengthening your existing relationships with these people rather than spending lavishly. Small, thoughtful gifts given in person are ideal for these casual but important connections in your community and workplace.”
According to Conor Hughes, a human resources consultant and change manager, it’s best to pick a product that is both professional and personal when it comes to a coworker.
“One idea is to give a high-quality water bottle, an excellent choice for colleagues who prioritize fitness or enjoy outdoor activities during their breaks. Or, if you know your coworker enjoys snacking at their desk, consider a desktop vacuum cleaner. Alternatively, an assortment of well-chosen canned wines could be a lovely gift for colleagues who like a good wine night or happy hour,” Hughes suggests. “Gourmet chocolates or distinctive snack packs, on the other hand, can satisfy any coworker’s palate and offer a delightful treat during the workday.”
Tsvetelina Nesteva, a human resources manager and talent acquisition specialist, recommends practical gifts that coworkers can use daily.
“Last year, I gifted a desktop organizer to a colleague who often has paperwork spread out on her desk,” she says.
For neighbors, Urbonaite recommends a package of Christmas cookies or highquality coffee grounds, which can be dropped off in person with a Christmas card for a more personal touch.
“Homemade gifts that you put some thought into are ideal for neighbors, too,” Nasteva continues. “I’ve baked dozens of colorful Christmas cookies and decorated them with festive sprinkles. I arranged the cookies on a plate and tied a ribbon with the tag, thanking my neighbor for being so wonderful.”
“If you know your coworker enjoys snacking at their desk, consider a desktop vacuum cleaner.”
Blodgett’s ideal gifts for friends on the block include scented candles or small gift cards to community restaurants or coffee shops that your nearby residents frequent.
“I often give small packs of tea bags or local honey, too,” she says.
Instead, consider gifting a small potted plant, seasonal flowers, or a festive treat basket, advises Hughes.
“It’s always best to present these gifts to your neighbors in person, if possible, during the week or two leading up to the holidays you celebrate in case they won’t be around later,” he adds.
The pros agree that gift cards work best for service providers like your hairstylist, gardener, mail carrier, or delivery driver.
“You can personally deliver the gift card or present to this person anytime during the holiday season, along with a lovely thank you message, or hand it to them if they are expected at your property,” says Urbonaite.
If gift cards aren’t your thing, Hughes says you can’t go wrong with a box of quality candies or at least a handwritten thank-you note. n
Gift ideas for all 8 days of HANUKKAH
BY ERIK J. MARTIN
Onthe 12th day of Christmas, my true love sent to me 12 drummers drumming. Nice gesture, I thought — a little over the top and loud but creative — although it didn’t hold a candle to the thoughtful gift I got on the eighth day of Hanukkah.
That’s what many lucky Jewish recipients might be thinking this time of year, especially if they’re part of a tradition where loved ones exchange generous or considerate gifts during this seasonal religious festival, which is observed over eight days and nights, typically between late November and December.
“As an Israeli-born entrepreneur, Hanukkah traditions and gift-giving customs are pretty close to home for me,” says New York City-based Solomon Wiesen. “In recent years, giving gifts on all eight nights of Hanukkah has become more common, especially in families with kids. Traditionally, however, it was more about gelt — money — and celebrating the miracle of light rather than material gifts. But nowadays, many families use the eight days as an opportunity to give meaningful gifts connected to the holiday’s values.”
Lachlan Brown, a personal development and relationship expert, agrees that the practice of bestowing presents during Hanukkah has become more prevalent
in recent years, particularly in North America.
“Some families choose to give small gifts on each of the eight nights, while others may focus on one or two significant gifts. Typically, parents, grandparents, and close family members are the ones who give and receive gifts during this time,” adds Brown. “However, the focus should be on the spirit of giving and the joy of the celebration and not on the material value of the gifts.”
Rasa Urbonaite, an event organizer professional, points out that Hanukkah gift exchanging usually involves families with youngsters, with moms and dads typically being the benefactors.
“While presents can be given on any of the eight days, many families prioritize the final day,” she explains.
Want to begin or grow a Hanukkah giftgiving tradition? Consider these gifts for each or any of the eight days of Hanukkah: Day 1: A personalized menorah for children or adults. “Or, you can give chocolate coins to kids and a bar of quality
dark chocolate to grown-ups,” suggests Urbonaite. Wiesen, meanwhile, nominates a box of artisanal Hanukkah candles, “a perfect start that connects to the spirit of the holiday.”
Day 2: Books or Jewish-themed puzzles for kids and adults, “including anything from educational books for kids to cookbooks for adults who love exploring new holiday recipes,” Wiesen suggests. Alternatively, consider gifting comic books to the children or “a nice bottle of wine, gourmet coffee, or scented candle for older recipients,” advises Jodi Blodgett, a gifting expert.
Day 3: Brown recommends Creative art supplies or craft kits. Wiesen, meanwhile, proposes traditional gifts like dreidels or fun socks with Hanukkah designs.
Day 4: “A Kindle, wireless headphones, or smartwatch would be perfect for kids in the middle of Hanukkah,” Blodgett notes. Brown suggests cozy blankets, and Urbonaite recommends personalized pajamas. “Or opt for a family experience by giving a board game or a subscription to a streaming service where you can all watch Hanukkah movies together,” says Wiesen.
items like wireless chargers or smart plugs,” Wiesen says. Ask Urbonaite, and she will advise you on homemade gifts like a handmade flower bouquet or personalized card.
Day 8: “End Hanukkah with something significant, like a donation in the recipient’s name to a charity they care about or a family heirloom passed down to the next generation,” Wiesen says. Meanwhile, Brown favors giving a year-long membership to a museum or zoo.
Day 5: DIY latke-making or craft kits to create Hanukkah decorations for interactive fun, Wiesen says. Urbonaite advocates for a family rejuvenation night involving bowling, and Brown suggests giving inspiring books like Hanukkah stories for kids.
Day 6: “Gift the kids hand bracelets and earrings, and gift adults pearl necklaces,” Urbonaite continues. Brown, on the other hand, nominates mindfulness gifts like meditation apps or calming bedtime sets.
Day 7: A massage chair, high-quality gardening tools, or leather wallet, per Blodgett. “I’d give gadgets or small-tech
Wiesen adds that when wrapping Hanukkah presents, use fabric gift wraps with Star of David patterns or blue and silver-themed packaging. You can also attach a small pouch of chocolate gelt on top of the gift for an extra festive crowning touch.
“It’s best to steer clear of gifts that clash with Jewish dietary laws or cultural sensitivities, like foods that aren’t kosher or religious symbols from other traditions,” cautions Wiesen.
Blodgett echoes those thoughts.
“Avoid giving anything too expensive, showy, or dangerous for kids,” she says. “And bypass any overly personal gifts for adults like jewelry unless you know their tastes well.” n
HOTTEST TOYS OF 2024
BY LISA IANNUCCI
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Getting your holiday shopping done early should be on your to-do list. If you’re wondering what some of the coolest or hottest toys of the year are, keep reading. We asked toy experts for their best recommendations for your little one.
Sticki Rolls Sticker Bracelets from Sky Castle: Christopher Byrne, aka The Toy Guy, said these bracelets are hot on TikTok.
Sticki Rolls are the first-ever wearable, shareable sticker bracelets for ages 5 and up. “It’s a truly innovative concept, and at
the same time, they’re very reasonable and social,” said Byrne. “We keep hearing from parents and educators how important social play is for kids right now, and this is an inexpensive way kids can collect and interact.” Retail price is $9.99 and up.
Disney Bitzee from Spin Master: If your youngsters couldn’t get enough of the hit toy, Bitzee, last year, just wait. This year, there’s a new Disney version where they can raise and play with 30 virtual Disney pets. The toy is for children ages 5-7 or, let’s admit it, a Disney fan of any age. “Again, it’s great for social or solo play, and the experience of using the Bitzee is kind of magical,” said Byrne. Starting price is $34.99.
The Cat Mitt Game from McMiller Fun: A take off on the once popular online oven mitt challenge, this fast-paced game challenges kids to collect kitty treats while wearing cat paws. “It’s a lot of hilarity, and one of the most important reasons we like it is that we’ve played with people of widely diverse ages, and they’ve all had a good time—and lots of laughs,” said Byrne. It currently retails for $24.99.
PlayTab Modular Board from Fat Brain: Those little fingers need to be kept busy, too, and this PlayTab Modular Board is a perfect gift for one-year-olds. “We love this because it can be used in multiple ways,” said Erica J Card, Store Director/Buyer, Soksaby Company Child’s Play Toys & Books.
“Toddlers can mix and match the manipulative pieces. Each one works on a different fine motor skill, introduces cause and effect in a more tactile way, and the satisfaction of feeling the magnet pull. They can also be used individually, or together on the fridge, or any magnetized surface.” The Playtab Board is $9.99; and the Playtab Tile Sets are $17.99/ea.
Magna-Tiles: Card believes that every home should have Magna-Tiles. “It is an open-ended tile-building toy for ages three years and up,” she said. “They encourage early STEM use of the brain trying to figure out how to put things together, and as they get older, they build things for their other toys. I.e., building a garage for their cars or a house for their dolls/action figures.”
The MicroMags are a new version that allows kids to build on a smaller scale. “They are great for travel or restaurants,”
Card.
We love a versatile toy.” The MicroMags 70pc set is $49.99, the MicroMags 26pc set is $19.99, and the Space MicroMags is $54.99.
Snap Circuits Beginner: Card said that Snap Circuits are a great introduction to how circuits work and have beginner lessons on electricity. The toy is picturebased, so instructions are easy to use. “Many science kits are geared towards older kids, but Snap Circuits Beginner and the Snap Circuits Night Light are accessible for a five-year-old,” said Card. “These kits show that science can be fun. They can make an object light up and a fan spin or have a speaker make a sound.” Snap Circuits Beginner starts at $26.99; and the Snap Circuits Night Light are $19.99.
Galactic Fireball Boomerang Drone: “This was made popular on TikTok, but it’s fantastic,” said Card. “Throw the drone, and it comes back to you, no matter what direction you throw it in. It’s just pure fun while practicing coordination unbeknownst to them. The current price is $29.99.
Finally, Byrne said that Squishmallows is still one of the hottest brands out there, with more than 400 million sold, so don’t miss their top plush, the Squishmallows Palmer The Goat.
With the new Transformers movie and the upcoming Wicked movie, Byrne said the hot action figures will be the Transformers One Power Flip Optimus Prime, and the best collectible dolls will be Universal Wicked Glinda and Elphaba from Mattel. n
