We love to think our presents will be up on the mantelpiece forever. But let’s face it: some things are destined to add to our closet clutter. (Unless it’s from our sustainable gift guide , of course.)
It’s been on-trend for a while to offer experiences, rather than things, for gifts. To help you level up your gift-giving game this holiday season, check out our curated list of giftable experiences so you can sleigh the holidays.
🎶 For the music lover | $15+
What’s a better gift for an Austinite than tickets to a concert? Between Bruce Springsteen , The Austin Blues Festival , and Kool & the Gang , there are plenty of upcoming shows for someone on your Christmas list.
Pro tip: Austin-based festivalPass , which calls itself the world’s first live events subscription service, offers three membership tiers (starting at $210) with “credits” you can redeem for local concerts, sports games, theater performances, comedy shows, and festivals.
🎨 For the artist | $70+
Spring registration is open for The Contemporary Austin’s art school, which offers courses on watercolor, fiber art, botanical painting, and more. Check out the class list .
🛀🏻 For the person who deserves some relaxation | $25+
Gift a loved one some pampering. The newly rebranded Hotel Viata recently opened a first-class spa with treatments like ritual detox, CBD massage, and cold stone facial enhancement — see the full list of services .
Treat someone in your life to a luxurious spa treatment.
Photo by Jane Yun, provided by Hotel Viata
☀️ For the adventurer | $139+
Brave the heights at Lake Travis Zipline , the longest and fastest zipline in Texas. A three-hour tour includes a boat ride and hike, and you can also take a nighttime flight.
🍳 For the home chef | $50+
Central Market Cooking School offers regular classes on making Asian dumplings, tamales, sushi, and more. Some locations even offer specialty classes on skills like knife work and mixology. Find a location near you .