The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and gift-giving. One popular gift-giving tradition is the “12 Days of Christmas” gifts. This tradition involves giving a gift for each of the 12 days leading up to Christmas Day. The gifts are usually themed around the verses of the popular Christmas carol “The 12 Days of Christmas,” with each verse representing a different gift idea.

12 Days of Christmas Gifts: Ideas for Every Budget and Recipient

The 12 Days of Christmas gifts can be a fun and creative way to show your loved ones how much you care. Whether you're giving gifts to family members, friends, or coworkers, this tradition can bring joy and excitement to the holiday season. Some people choose to give the gifts anonymously, while others prefer to give them as a regular gift for the year. Recipients unwrap one gift a day until the song is done, making each day leading up to Christmas a little more special.

If you're looking for gift ideas for the 12 Days of Christmas tradition, there are plenty of resources available to help you out. From DIY gift ideas to store-bought options, there are endless possibilities for each verse of the song. Whether you're looking to give food-related gifts or more practical items, there's something for everyone. So why not add a little extra cheer to your holiday season with the 12 Days of Christmas gifts tradition?

12 Days of Christmas Gifts: Ideas for Every Budget and Recipient

Understanding the 12 Days of Christmas

The 12 Days of Christmas is a popular Christmas song that has been around for centuries. It is a cumulative song, which means that each verse builds upon the previous one. The song tells the story of a person who receives a different gift each day for the 12 days of Christmas.

The 12 days of Christmas are traditionally celebrated from December 25th, Christmas Day, to January 5th, the eve of the Epiphany. The Epiphany is a Christian feast day that celebrates the visit of the Magi, or Wise Men, to the baby Jesus.

Each of the gifts mentioned in the song has a special meaning. For example, the partridge in a pear tree represents Jesus Christ, while the two turtle doves represent the Old and New Testaments of the Bible. The three French hens represent the three theological virtues of faith, hope, and love, while the four calling birds represent the four Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

The five golden rings represent the first five books of the Old Testament, known as the Pentateuch, while the six geese a-laying represent the six days of creation. The seven swans a-swimming represent the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, while the eight maids a-milking represent the eight Beatitudes mentioned in the Sermon on the Mount.

The nine ladies dancing represent the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit, while the ten lords a-leaping represent the Ten Commandments. The eleven pipers piping represent the eleven faithful apostles, while the twelve drummers drumming represent the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostle's Creed.

In modern times, the 12 Days of Christmas have become associated with gift-giving. Some people give gifts to their loved ones on each of the 12 days, while others give one big gift on Christmas Day. The gifts mentioned in the song can also inspire creative gift-giving ideas, such as giving a platter of homemade turtle candy for the two turtle doves or a set of drumsticks for the twelve drummers drumming.

Overall, the 12 Days of Christmas is a beloved Christmas song that has deep roots in Christian tradition. It's a fun way to celebrate the holiday season and can inspire creative gift-giving ideas.

Traditional Gift Ideas

The 12 Days of Christmas is a popular holiday song that has been around for centuries. Each verse of the song represents a gift given by a true love to their sweetheart. If you're looking for traditional gift ideas to celebrate this holiday season, here are some ideas inspired by the song.

Partridge in a Pear Tree

The first verse of the song mentions a partridge in a pear tree. A pear tree is a great gift for someone who loves gardening. You can also give a basket of fresh pears or pear preserves.

Turtle Doves, French Hens, and Calling Birds

The second, third, and fourth verses of the song mention turtle doves, French hens, and calling birds. You can give birdseed, a bird feeder, or a birdhouse to someone who loves birds. Another idea is to give a cookbook with recipes for French cuisine.

Five Golden Rings

The fifth verse of the song mentions five golden rings. You can give a set of gold napkin rings or a golden rings ornament. If you're looking for a more extravagant gift, consider giving a piece of jewelry with a gold ring.

Six Geese a-Laying and Seven Swans a-Swimming

The sixth and seventh verses of the song mention geese and swans. A great gift idea is to give a toy flute or drum for someone who loves music. You can also give a toy ring toss game or a set of champagne flutes.

Eight Maids a-Milking and Nine Ladies Dancing

The eighth and ninth verses of the song mention maids and ladies dancing. A great gift idea is to give an egg cooker or a cookbook with recipes for milk-based dishes. Another idea is to give a book on dance or a gift card to a dance class.

Ten Lords a-Leaping, Eleven Pipers Piping, and Twelve Drummers Drumming

The last three verses of the song mention lords, pipers, and drummers. A great gift idea is to give a toy drum or a toy flute. You can also give a book on music or a gift card to a music class.

These traditional gift ideas inspired by the 12 Days of Christmas song are sure to bring joy to your loved ones during the holiday season.

Unique and Modern Gift Ideas

When it comes to finding unique and modern gift ideas for the 12 Days of Christmas, there are plenty of options out there. One great way to get started is to think about the recipient's interests and hobbies. For example, if they love music, consider gifting them a pair of headphones or a Bluetooth speaker. These gifts are both practical and fun, and they can be used for years to come.

Another great option for a unique gift idea is a spa gift basket or a set of bath bombs. These gifts are perfect for someone who loves to relax and unwind, and they can be found at a variety of different retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Target, and even the dollar store. For a more personal touch, consider creating your own spa gift basket with items like candles, bath salts, and lotions.

For those who love to dance, consider giving the gift of dance lessons. This is a great way to help someone learn a new skill and have fun at the same time. And for those who love Dove bath products, consider gifting them a set of Dove soap or Dove ornaments. These gifts are both practical and thoughtful, and they are sure to be appreciated.

If you're looking for something a little more unique, consider gifting a succulent or an inflatable swan. Succulents are a great way to add some greenery to someone's home or office, and they are easy to care for. And an inflatable swan is a fun and playful gift that is perfect for someone who loves to spend time in the pool or at the beach.

For a fun and quirky gift idea, consider giving a pair of goose socks or a bottle of champagne. These gifts are both unexpected and playful, and they are sure to bring a smile to the recipient's face. And if you're looking to sell your own unique gift ideas, consider setting up a shop on Etsy. This platform is perfect for selling homemade or one-of-a-kind gifts that can't be found anywhere else.

Gifts for Specific Recipients

When it comes to choosing gifts for specific recipients during the 12 Days of Christmas, there are plenty of options to consider. Here are some ideas for different types of recipients:

For a Husband

For a husband, consider giving gifts that are personalized and thoughtful. This could include items such as a personalized photo album or a custom-made piece of jewelry. If he enjoys sports, consider getting him tickets to a game or a piece of memorabilia from his favorite team.

For a Gift Recipient

If you're participating in a gift exchange and don't know the recipient very well, consider getting them a gift card to a popular store or restaurant. Alternatively, you could get them a small gift such as a candle or a cozy blanket.

For a Secret Santa

For a Secret Santa gift exchange, consider getting something that is both fun and practical. This could include items such as a desk toy or a set of unique coasters. Alternatively, you could get them something related to their hobbies or interests.

For a Family

When giving gifts to a family, consider getting something that everyone can enjoy. This could include items such as a board game or a movie night basket with popcorn and candy. Alternatively, you could get them tickets to a local attraction or event.

For a Friend

For a friend, consider getting something that reflects their personality or interests. This could include items such as a book by their favorite author or a piece of artwork that they would appreciate. Alternatively, you could get them a gift card to their favorite store or restaurant.

Anonymously

If you want to give gifts anonymously, consider leaving small gifts or treats for your recipient to find each day. This could include items such as homemade cookies or a small ornament. Alternatively, you could leave a note with each gift to let them know that they are appreciated.

12 Days of Christmas Gifts for Him – Fun gifts for My Husband

My husband and I don't spend much on gifts for each other. Honestly, if we need something (and it really has to be a need, not a want) we usually just go out and buy it because we have to. But this year I wanted to start a new tradition celebrating 12 days of Christmas gifts for him. A tradition that is fun, inexpensive and thoughtful at the same time.

The 12 days of Christmas gifts for him I bought are small, inexpensive gifts that I know he loves but doesn't buy himself for a variety of reasons. My husband is a man's man who is not extravagant, doesn't follow fads, never buys anything he doesn't NEED, and never expects anything from anyone (that's why this is so fun!).

If you're on a tight budget like we are and you're thinking there is no way you can afford 12 gifts, don't worry. I bought all these gifts in one shopping trip to Target, and together they cost less than $60.00. That's less than $5.00 per gift! You can do this! And best of all these are gifts he really loves, not overpriced gifts he'll just toss in six months.

Day 1: 1 Can of his favorite Honey Roasted Peanuts
Day 2: 2 Pairs of Wool Socks
Day 3: 3 Candy-cane flavored Christmas Peeps (They come in packets of 3s.)
Day 4: 4 bags of Jerky
Day 5: 5 piece Travel Manicure Set
Day 6: 6 pack of his favorite Winter Beer
Day 7: 7 cans of 7-up
Day 8: 8 piece of Dark Chocolate Mint candies
Day 9: 9 bags of Movie Theater Butter Popcorn
Day 10: $10 Gift Card (perfect for Music, Movies, and Games)
Day 11: 11 of his favorite homemade cookies
Day 12: A little note with 12 Things I Love About Him

(Update: We're on Day 2 and hubs is catching on to this quick. He just said to me ‘So on day 12 you got me a 12 pack of beer right?‘. Now, why didn't I think of that? Haha!)

Some additional gift giving ideas include:

Day 1: Any single item. If you want to spend a little more on a gift, this is the day to do it.
Day 2: Thinks pairs. We did wool socks but slippers, gloves, tickets for two to the movies, dinner, or theater would be great too.
Days 3-6: Golf balls, golf tees, candy, beverages, bi-monthly magazine clubs or anything else that comes in a pack.
Days 7-11: Keep on the theme of packs and don't be afraid to buy multiple packs in smaller numbers if needed. Just open the packs and re-wrap to create the right number of items you need.
Day 12: What comes in dozens? Think beer (as my husband mentioned), soda, cookies, magazines, or food/wine of the month clubs.

Creating a Memorable Experience

One way to make the 12 Days of Christmas gift-giving experience more memorable is to focus on creating experiences rather than just giving physical gifts. This can be especially meaningful for loved ones who already have everything they need.

For example, dance lessons can be a fun and unique gift for someone who loves to move and groove. Whether it's ballroom, hip hop, or salsa, there are many different dance styles to choose from. Alternatively, if the recipient is already a skilled dancer, consider gifting them a private dance lesson with a professional instructor.

For those who enjoy games, a fun game or activity can be a great way to create memories. Jump rope, trampoline, and ring toss game are all examples of fun games that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

For a more festive touch, consider incorporating elements from the 12 Days of Christmas song into the experience. For example, ladies dancing or pipers piping can inspire a dance or music lesson, while lords a-leaping can inspire a jumping game or activity.

Overall, creating a memorable experience can be a great way to show someone how much you care. By focusing on activities and experiences rather than just physical gifts, you can create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Printable and DIY Gift Ideas

For those who love to add a personal touch to their gifts, there are plenty of DIY and printable gift ideas for the 12 Days of Christmas. One fun idea is to create homemade eggnog and deliver it on the first day of Christmas. The Little Red Hen has a great recipe that can be easily customized with different spices or alcohol options.

Another DIY gift idea is to create a set of 12 printable tags, one for each day of Christmas. These tags can be printed on cardstock and attached to small gifts or treats, such as candy canes or homemade cookies. The tags can also include a fun message or clue for the recipient to guess what the next day's gift will be.

-> Download 12 Days of Christmas Gifts Free Printables here. <-

For those who enjoy crafting, there are plenty of DIY gift ideas that can be made in advance and delivered throughout the 12 Days of Christmas. One idea is to create a set of personalized ornaments, such as painted wooden ornaments or embroidered felt ornaments. These can be delivered in a set of 12, with a different design for each day.

Overall, there are plenty of ways to add a personal touch to the 12 Days of Christmas gifts with DIY and printable gift ideas. Whether it's homemade eggnog, printable tags, or personalized ornaments, these gifts are sure to make the recipient feel special and loved.

Shopping Tips and Tricks

When it comes to shopping for 12 Days of Christmas gifts, there are a few tips and tricks that can help make the process easier and more affordable. Here are some ideas to keep in mind:

Start early: Don't wait until the last minute to start shopping for 12 Days of Christmas gifts. Start looking for ideas and deals in November or early December so you have plenty of time to find the perfect gifts.
Shop online: Online shopping can be a great way to save time and money when shopping for 12 Days of Christmas gifts. Websites like Amazon, Walmart, and Target offer a wide selection of products at competitive prices, and you can often take advantage of free shipping and other special offers.
Check out the dollar store: Don't overlook the dollar store when shopping for 12 Days of Christmas gifts. You can often find small, inexpensive items that make great stocking stuffers or gifts for the 12 Days of Christmas.
Get creative: Think outside the box when it comes to 12 Days of Christmas gifts. Consider making homemade gifts, like baked goods or crafts, or shopping on Etsy for unique, handmade items.
Set a budget: Before you start shopping, set a budget for 12 Days of Christmas gifts. This will help you stay on track and avoid overspending.

By following these tips and tricks, you can make shopping for 12 Days of Christmas gifts a fun and stress-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 12 gifts in the 12 days of Christmas?

The 12 gifts in the 12 days of Christmas are: a partridge in a pear tree, two turtle doves, three French hens, four calling birds, five gold rings, six geese a-laying, seven swans a-swimming, eight maids a-milking, nine ladies dancing, ten lords a-leaping, eleven pipers piping, and twelve drummers drumming.

How many gifts are given in 12 days of Christmas?

In total, 364 gifts are given in the 12 days of Christmas. Each day, the number of gifts given increases, starting with one gift on the first day and ending with twelve gifts on the twelfth day.

What do you do on 12 days of Christmas?

On the 12 days of Christmas, people often exchange gifts with their loved ones. Some people choose to give one gift each day for the 12 days leading up to Christmas, while others give all 12 gifts at once. Some people also choose to incorporate the 12 days of Christmas into their holiday decorations and celebrations.

12 Days of Christmas gifts for her

Some popular 12 Days of Christmas gifts for her include: jewelry, beauty products, candles, socks, chocolates, and small trinkets or ornaments. Each gift can be tailored to the recipient's interests and preferences.

Funny 12 Days of Christmas gift ideas

For those looking for a more humorous approach to the 12 Days of Christmas, some funny gift ideas include: a singing fish, a pair of socks with a funny saying, a whoopee cushion, a bacon-scented air freshener, a toilet-shaped mug, and a set of fake mustaches.

Inexpensive 12 Days of Christmas gift ideas

For those on a budget, there are plenty of inexpensive 12 Days of Christmas gift ideas. Some ideas include: homemade baked goods, a small potted plant, a personalized ornament, a set of holiday-themed mugs, a cozy blanket, and a DIY coupon book for acts of kindness or favors.