The most wonderful time of the year is almost here, and I’ve been thinking about gifts that bring families together.
My favorite Christmas memories aren’t about the individual presents under the tree, but about cozy moments we shared as a family.
That feeling of being curled up, laughing, and making memories is something I always try to recreate with my holiday shopping.
For me, the best gifts are the ones that encourage everyone to ditch the screens and enjoy each other’s company.
This year, I put together my list of 19 ideas for shared family cheer.
1. The Ultimate Family Board Game Bundle
There is truly nothing like the energy of a great family game night.
I believe a curated collection of board games is a gift that keeps on giving all year long.
Think about classic strategy games like Ticket to Ride for older kids and parents, paired with something silly and fast-paced like Telestrations for when everyone needs a good laugh.
You could even include a cozy blanket and some gourmet popcorn to make the first game night extra special.
2. A High-Quality Popcorn Maker and Toppings Set
Movie night transforms instantly with fresh, theater-style popcorn.
Gifting a high-quality popcorn maker is a fantastic way to upgrade a family’s movie tradition.
Don’t forget the fun additions like different seasonings, gourmet kernels, and even small bowls for individual servings.
This gift encourages everyone to gather on the sofa for a weekly family movie marathon.
3. A Deluxe Hot Chocolate Bar Kit
A DIY hot chocolate bar is the quintessential cozy Christmas experience.
Gather everything needed to create the perfect cup, starting with rich cocoa mix and beautiful ceramic mugs.
Add fun toppings like marshmallows, peppermint stirrers, caramel sauce, and maybe even a little bit of cinnamon.
This makes for a magical after-dinner treat that the whole family can assemble and enjoy together on a cold night.
4. A Family-Sized Extra Soft Blanket
There is always a need for a blanket large enough to fit everyone for a cuddle session.
Look for a giant, plush throw that measures at least 60 by 80 inches.
Choose a neutral color or a festive pattern that will look good in the family’s main living space.
This simple gift is an invitation to snuggle up for reading, movies, or just talking.
5. A Subscription to a Family Cooking Box
Cooking together is a wonderful way to teach kids skills and create shared memories.
A subscription to a meal kit service designed for families, or a box that sends baking ingredients for fun projects, is a unique idea.
This takes the stress out of planning and focuses on the joy of making something delicious together
6. A Backyard Fire Pit and S’mores Kit
Moving the cozy experience outdoors offers a fresh twist on family time.
A safe and sturdy backyard fire pit provides the perfect centerpiece for evening gatherings.
Package it with all the fixings for s’mores: long metal skewers, graham crackers, chocolate bars, and plenty of marshmallows.
This gift allows families to enjoy storytelling and stargazing around a warm, crackling fire.
7. A Customized Family Jigsaw Puzzle
Puzzles are a calm, quiet activity that everyone can contribute to at their own pace.
A customized jigsaw puzzle made from a favorite family photo makes the activity incredibly personal.
Once completed, the puzzle can even be glued and framed as a piece of family art.
8. A Nintendo Switch with Family-Friendly Games
Sometimes, a little screen time is exactly what a family needs for shared fun.
A Nintendo Switch is a great console because it has many multiplayer games that encourage cooperation and lighthearted competition.
Make sure to include classics like Mario Kart or Super Smash Bros. to get the party started immediately.
9. A Complete Family Karaoke Machine
This gift is for the family that isn’t afraid to be a little loud and silly.
A portable karaoke machine with built-in speakers and microphones is a hilarious addition to any living room.
It turns a regular evening into an impromptu family talent show.
10. A Movie Projector for Outdoor Cinema Nights
Transform the backyard or a plain living room wall into a silver screen.
A portable movie projector allows families to watch films in a whole new setting.
Add some comfy seating and string lights for a full outdoor cinema experience in warmer months.
11. Matching Family Pajamas
This classic Christmas tradition is always a heartwarming gift.
Choose a set of matching family pajamas in a festive print or a cozy flannel material.
These are perfect for taking holiday photos and for a Christmas morning spent unwrapping presents in style.
12. A Set of Beautifully Illustrated Classic Books
Encourage family reading time with a collection of timeless stories.
Look for hardcover, beautifully illustrated editions of classic books that the parents can read aloud to the kids.
This gift promotes literacy and provides a peaceful, shared routine before bedtime or on lazy weekends.
13. A Family Art or Craft Supply Stockpile
Creative activities are a fantastic way for families to express themselves and collaborate.
A large tub filled with high-quality paints, canvases, clay, or craft papers is a great idea.
This provides the materials for spontaneous art sessions that don’t require an adult to run out to the store first.
14. A Beginner-Friendly Musical Instrument
Learning a new skill together is a bonding experience that lasts.
Consider a starter ukulele, a keyboard, or even a set of hand drums.
These instruments are easy enough for beginners to try out and can lead to impromptu family jam sessions.
15. Themed Escape Room in a Box
Bring the fun and challenge of a real-life escape room right to their kitchen table.
There are many excellent “escape room in a box” games available that are perfect for family teamwork.
Solving puzzles together encourages communication and collaboration under a fun time constraint.
16. A Membership to a Local Museum or Zoo
The best shared gifts aren’t always things you can wrap.
A family membership to a favorite local attraction like a museum, zoo, or science center is wonderful.
This allows the family to enjoy unlimited outings together throughout the year.
17. A Gourmet Pizza Making Kit
Making and decorating pizza is a satisfying and delicious family tradition.
Gift a pizza stone, a wooden peel, and a cookbook with creative topping ideas.
You can even include a few jars of high-quality sauce and a bag of premium flour to start their Friday night pizza ritual.
18. A Family Scrapbooking Kit
Help the family preserve their memories in a creative and tactile way.
A deluxe scrapbooking kit should include a beautiful album, acid-free papers, stickers, and decorative scissors.
Gathering and arranging photos together becomes a lovely, nostalgic activity that celebrates their shared history and love.
19. A Digital Photo Frame with Pre-Loaded Memories
This is a modern way to enjoy the joy of looking back at favorite moments.
A high-resolution digital photo frame that automatically cycles through pictures is a lovely addition to any room.
The extra thoughtful touch is to pre-load it with 50 or so of the family’s best photos before you wrap it.
I hope this list inspires you to find a gift that focuses on togetherness and shared fun. Whether it’s a game, a cozy blanket, or an experience, the most valuable present you can give a family is a nudge towards making new, wonderful memories this holiday season.
