We love finding creative ways to show the people around us that we know, see, and care about them — and one of our favorite ways to do that is through gifts! Bringing a little something to a neighbor, someone who has perhaps grabbed your mail for you on occasion, or someone in your neighborhood who is a friend, is a way to spread a little holiday cheer this time of year. As with all gifts, it’s the thought that counts! So it doesn’t need to be over the top in any way. Just a simple gesture to show someone you’re thinking of them, grateful for them, and care.
This post will hopefully inspire with ideas for 12 neighbor gift ideas. And of course don’t miss our Neighbors & Friends Gift Guide that’s filled with lots of ideas you can still get in time for Christmas!
1. Spiced Pecans or Nuts
Killer Pecans are our favorite, or you could try homemade (this recipe has lots of great reviews!). Just put them in a festive tin and you’re all set.
2. Gift Wrapping Staples
Personalized or non-personalized gift tags, wrapping paper, scissors, and even tape. These are the kinds of items that we all need this time of year. These gold scissors are a great gift by themselves! (Pictured: Katie Corley tags!)
3. Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix
This recipe from The Pioneer Woman is sure to be a hit! You can get creative with the packaging, too — add a little store-bought mix to a jar and top with marshmallows, and a bow of course.
4. Breakfast Food
Like the Kringles at Trader Joe’s (a delicious Danish pastry they can enjoy with coffee), cinnamon rolls or homemade muffins. You could also order from a local bakery!
5. Vanilla Extract
Either homemade — which we’ve shared before here! — or store bought, this is an excellent idea for all their holiday baking. Include a favorite cookie recipe and perhaps a cookie cutter, too! This gourmet vanilla on Amazon is always a lovely gift with a festive tag.
6. A Favorite Spice Mix
There are so many wonderful spice mixes you can pick up at your local grocery or specialty food store during the holidays that would make a great gift for anyone who loves to cook. Or you might have your own you want to bottle up for friends. We have a popular recipe for blackening spice that goes well with seafood, and you could certainly turn that into a gift to give anyone on your list! Put in a cute jar with tag.
7. Festive Tableware
Festive plates, napkins, and cups are a useful thing to have on hand when holiday guests come calling — which make for perfect gifts! Many local boutiques carry darling options that come ready to gift, but you can find cute options on Amazon that are ready to go with a bow and a gift tag.
8. Potted Paperwhites
We shared a how-to reel on Instagram with potted paperwhites. You can watch it here — it’s a thoughtful gift for an elderly neighbor or empty nesters!
9. A Cocktail Kit
Whether you’re gifting a bottle of wine, a holiday 6-pack from a local brewery, or put together a cocktail gift basket — this is the kind of gift that people love to receive over the holidays! Check out this holiday ranch water idea with printable for a fun hostess gift!
10. Christmas Cookie Decorating Supplies
Such a cute gift to give to families with young children! Whether it’s cookie cutters, fun sprinkles or a festive spatula set for under $10 – or all of these things in a cute gift basket!
11. Chips and Salsa
Homemade or store bought, this is the perfect snack when you’re home for the holidays. Pair with the green and red tortilla chips at your grocery store and wrap in a clear bag with ribbon and a festive tag!
12. Christmas Cookies
When you’re doing your holiday baking, be sure to make an extra batch or two to gift to neighbors. Package in a bakery box and bring your children with you when you deliver! Or store bought is great, too! We paired these Trader Joe’s mini cookies with cute canisters from Brenna Anne’s.
Need more ideas? Be sure to browse our full gift guide here!
What do you think?