Avoid the malls, save money, and instead of giving more stuff, give gifts that are meaningful! Here are some holiday gift ideas that are not only earth-friendly, but fun and memorable too:
1. Membership - does your loved one have a favorite museum or zoo? What about an annual Regional Parks pass, or community center classes?
2. Homemade Edible Gifts - DIY cookie mixes, savory snacks and nuts, or pickles and other jarred goods; the way to their heart may be through their stomach! Bonus points if you reuse or repurpose jars or tins to hold the goodies.
3. Plants - live plants, fruits and veggies for the garden, or seeds can all be used as stand-alone presents or coupled with a gardening box or container for the green thumb in your life. It's a gift that keeps on giving.
4. Experiences - Take your loved one ice skating (Walnut Creek and Martinez both have holiday ice skating rinks!) or hiking at a local park. Prefer something indoors? How about tickets to a movie or play, or a one-day pass to the local rock-climbing gym?
5. Giving together to others - Instead of gifting each other presents, you and your friends or family could "adopt" a family in need to give to together.
A few local organizations that match you up with a wish list of those less fortunate include Salvation Army's Adopt-A-Family program, and the Mt. Diablo Unified School District's homeless and foster youth program. You get to spend time with your loved ones while helping others - a win-win.
Check out New Dream's Simplify the Holidays, Cal Recycle's Green Gift Guide, or for more resources and practical tips.
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