Be a Better, Greener Gift Giver This Holiday Season

The holidays are a season of generosity and joy — but they can also bring a lot of waste. This year, consider giving gifts that reflect your values and help care for the planet. Thoughtful, sustainable gifts can be just as meaningful (if not more so!) than the latest gadget or another piece of décor.

When shopping or planning your gifts this season, look for options that:

• Aren't physical (like experiences or services)

• Are consumable (so they don’t add clutter or waste)

• Fulfill a real need for the recipient

Here are some eco-friendly ideas for greener gift giving this holiday season:

🌿 For Eco-Conscious Friends or Relatives

• Donate to a trusted environmental organization in their name - like Sustainable Stillwater MN

🕯️ For the Host or Hostess

• Offer to come early to help set up or stay late to help clean up.

• Ask if you can pick up last-minute items like ice, wine, or napkins.

• Volunteer for a specific task — take photos, refill the punch bowl, or keep buffet plates stocked.

🥖 For the Foodie

• A CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) subscription.

• Coupons for a monthly delivery of your specialty (cookies, bread, soup, etc.).

• A gift card for spices, such as from penzeys.com.

🧘 For the Wellness & Self-Care Guru

• A basket of organic, toxin-free beauty products from ShopToxyfree.com or TheTareMarket.com.

• A gift certificate for a yoga class or spa service.

• A massage or salon gift card for a relaxing self-care day.

🧩 For Kids & Teens

• Magazine subscriptions like Highlights, Ranger Rick, or National Geographic for Kids.

• Museum memberships, such as local children’s museums or science centers.

• A digital learning game subscription like ABCMouse.com (ages 2+). Always check with parents before gifting screen time.

• An audiobook subscription through libro.fm, which supports local bookstores.

• Tickets or passes to a movie, playhouse, or local event.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Family Members & Parents

• A personalized calendar or mug featuring children’s artwork or photos (available through Shutterfly or CVS Photo).

• A Minnesota State Parks Pass — explore nature while supporting conservation.

• A promise of childcare for a date night or kid-free day.

• Pet sitting for their next trip.

❤️ For Your Spouse or Partner

• A family gym membership and a promise to be an accountability partner.

• Dance lessons to enjoy together.

• An elegant dinner out, followed by a show or concert.

• A movie night gift card for a cozy evening together.

The Bottom Line

The best gifts are the ones that create memories, reduce waste, and show care — not just for your loved ones, but for the planet, too. By choosing experiences, consumables, and meaningful alternatives, you’ll make this holiday season a little greener and a lot more heartfelt.