Give Experiences this Holiday Season
I love to gift (and get!) experiences rather than things. I know that many times I gift well-thought out gifts that I think the recipient will enjoy (like my kids) that later just end up collecting dust or doesn't fit and gets donated or pitched or pushed to the back of a shelf and forgotten about.
My mom had this philosophy when we were growing up that you "had to have something to show for" the money that was spent. And that meant gifting things. But I have a different take. Although taking someone out for a meal or giving them tickets to an event or planning a vacation as a gift are all wonderful gestures that you may not be able to display on a shelf, they will provide memories that will last a lifetime - and continue giving and outlasting any physical object. I also like to give consumable gifts - food that you can enjoy and have a memory of that won't add clutter.
My oldest son is pretty hard to buy for and each year I buy tickets to something we can do together. I don't get to spend nearly enough time with him as I like since he has moved out the house, so any chance I have to be with him sharing a common interest, I am all for. Both of us are huge Cubs fans and we also love to go to concerts. He enjoys a lot of the same music I do - country, classic rock and 80s music. Some years I have bought him tickets to the Cubs convention with an overnight package and we get to enjoy a weekend together enveloped in the world of Cubs fandom. Other times I get tickets to a concert of an artist he has been wanting to see. Last year it was Willie Nelson and we spent a fun summer day at the Outlaw Music Festival watching him, John Mellencamp and Bob Dylan on stage.
If you enjoy giving experiences, here a few to consider:
Fever Up hosts a number of candlelight concerts around the country. My husband and I went to a Vivaldi candlelight concert in South Bend in October. They were also doing a scary movie theme for another concert and they have upcoming dates of holiday music and Taylor Swift songs. I'd love both of those. Check out the website for Chicago dates, as well. These concerts don't have traditional lighting on and the entire theatre is lit by artificial candles. It creates such a nice mood and is beautiful.
Take a loved one out to Daley Plaza or Aurora where this year's Christkindl Market will be taking place. Treat them to a mug of mulled cider, a raclette sandwich and a new ornament for the tree. It's an experience that will live on in your memories forever. It's a great place to get into the holiday spirit. I've been to this event in different locations over the years and each one has been a fun representation of a traditional German Christmas market. You won't want to miss it.
I've made a few trips to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin over the years in the spring and summer seasons when the lake and surroundings are a beautiful setting for shorts and t-shirt weather. But winter in Lake Geneva is nothing short of pure magic. With a blanket of snow or a frozen lake to gaze out at, it's a winter wonderland that everyone should visit. The Mountain Top Ski Resort at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa opens for the season on December 14. It boasts 20 downhill ski runs and terrain designed for all ages, groups and abilities and has been rated as a Top Wisconsin Ski Resort. A weekend away with the family for some time on the ski slopes s a perfect gift for the whole family that will produce lots of quality time and wonderful memories.
Holiday Tea at The Drake Hotel
The holiday season at the Drake Hotel is nothing short of spectacular. Dressing up and enjoying afternoon tea in the Palm Court has been a holiday tradition for generations. I experienced my first holiday tea at The Drake last year where carolers made their way around as we sipped and nibbled on adorable tea sandwiches followed by some browsing in the gift shop where there was an array or ornaments, holiday decor and unique gift items. There are also dates where a live harpist is there. If you don't want to venture into the city, The Drake location in Oak Brook also offers holiday tea.
Nestled in the Galena Territory in western Illinois, the Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa is a luxurious venue known for its natural beauty and seasonal events. Between the outdoor winter sports and the indoor spa services, it's the perfect romantic getaway or location for a little family time. Nestle up in this cozy resort and enjoy top-rated restaurants, as well. If a winter visit isn't in the cards, you can always purchase a gift card for the golfer in your life to use once the ground thaws and the green courses are opening back up.
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
The Hard Rock Casino Franchise added a location in Northwest Indiana in 2021 and the Hard Rock Live entertainment venue has hosted a number of musical acts, comedians and other entertainers. The locations easily accessible with free parking and offers shows ranging from tribute bands to well-known names in the biz. Take a look at the upcoming calendar and and pick a show for someone special in your life. If you know an Elvis fan, the Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular on January 11 would make an amazing gift.
What's more fun in the frigid winter months that lounging at an indoor water park? You'll find a number of indoor water parks in the Midwest, particularly in the Wisconsin Dells area, but if you are looking for something closer to home, make some plans for a family getaway to Gurnee. It's a great way to spend some days of your holiday break when the kids are off school. Watch snow fall outside while you're in the warm indoors lounging on the lazy river, zooming down a slide or splashing with the little ones.
Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament
Treat someone special to a dinner experience like no other, one where you dine sans silverware and cheer on jousting knights as you eat. This fun dinner-and-a-show venue is family friendly and transports you back to the 11th century for a feast and tournament. Watch knights battle on majestic horses while you enjoy a four-course banquet. It's an evening fit for a royal and one you won't soon forget.
I'll be adding to the list during the season as I am made aware of more fun experiences. Be sure to bookmark this blog and check back.
*Apologies for the lack of images. Technical difficulties have prevented me from inserting photos. I hope to come back and add some when the issue is resolved.
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