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Cultural, religious, and commercial traditions shape gift-giving holidays in the United States. Many of these special occasions have grown into beloved opportunities to show appreciation and create lasting memories
Yes, there’s shopping involved.
Yes, it can feel overwhelming at times.
But at its core, gift giving is really about pausing our busy lives to show our family and friends how much we care.
So, when is the next gift-giving holiday?
Key Gift Giving Holidays and Their Traditions in the US
Gift-giving Holidays in the U.S. blend tradition and personal expression. They reinforce bonds between family, friends, and communities through the act of giving. These gift-giving holidays are the ones your calendar better be marked for unless you want to face disappointed looks from loved ones.
Father’s Day (Third Sunday in June)
Father’s Day is dedicated to honoring fathers and father figures; it’s that one day Dad pretends he doesn't want anything but deep down hopes you remembered! Families in the U.S. often celebrate Father’s Day with gifts like tools, gadgets, or heartfelt handmade presents. Father’s Day gift basket ideas have also become a popular way to personalize the occasion, combining treats and small surprises tailored to Dad’s interests. Many also mark the occasion with special meals or outdoor activities.
4th of July
Also known in the U.S. as Independence Day, the 4th of July celebrates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. Although it’s mostly marked by fireworks, parades, and barbecues, who doesn't love showing up to the BBQ with a symbolic gift in hand? The 4th of July is a day known for gatherings and celebrations. Small patriotic gifts like flags, themed apparel, or nut boxes are sometimes exchanged.
National Friendship Day (First Sunday in August)
Friends deserve more than just a quick text message once a year! While not a federal holiday, National Friendship Day is dedicated to celebrating the bonds of friendship. It’s often marked by exchanging small tokens of appreciation like jewelry, personalized gifts, or sweet treats.
Halloween (October 31)
Halloween is a thrilling and widely beloved holiday in American culture. Over the years, it has evolved into a holiday filled with costumes, trick-or-treating, and unique decorations. Though mainly about costumes and candy, some people exchange spooky-themed gifts or prepare small treat bags for friends and neighbors.
Thanksgiving (Fourth Thursday in November)
President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a day of unity and thanks during the Civil War. It’s a cherished U.S. holiday centered around gratitude and family; guests often bring hostess gifts like candles, wine, or homemade baked goods.
Christmas (December 25)
Christmas commemorates the birth of Jesus Christ. It’s one of the globally celebrated gift-giving holidays, where families exchange presents, decorate trees, and enjoy festive meals together. Popular traditions in the United States include hanging stockings, singing carols, and displaying lights and decorations.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
A day that symbolizes fresh beginnings, as it marks the start of the new year. It’s often celebrated with fireworks, parties, and countdowns at midnight. Some people exchange small gifts like planners, champagne, or lucky charms for the year ahead.
Valentine’s Day (February 14)
Valentine’s Day is a romantic holiday where couples exchange chocolates, flowers, and gifts to express their love. The occasion is associated with Saint Valentine, who was said to have performed secret marriages for soldiers.
Easter (March/April, date varies)
Easter represents the resurrection of Jesus in Christianity and the renewal of life. A springtime celebration involving Easter baskets filled with candies and confections, toys, and small gifts, especially for children.
Popular Gift-Giving Occasions
Beyond well-known holidays like Christmas or Valentine’s Day, there are many other occasions throughout the year, such as Boss’s Day or Teacher Appreciation Week; these gifting occasions hold personal value and call for thoughtful gifts.
Teacher Appreciation Week (First full week of May)
Teacher Appreciation Week is a time for students and parents to thank educators with small gifts like gift cards or handwritten notes. Schools and communities in the U.S. often celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week to highlight the role teachers play.
Mother’s Day (Second Sunday in May)
A special day dedicated to honoring and celebrating mothers, grandmothers, and maternal figures. Families often gather on Mother’s Day to express gratitude for the sacrifices mothers make. Many people also take the opportunity to write a personal letter or cook a meal to show their love. Flowers, chocolate, and personalized jewelry are also widely gifted on this day.
Birthday
Birthdays are special gift-giving holidays where friends and family come together to honor the occasion with gifts, cake, and wishes. Milestone birthdays (like 16th, 18th, 21st, or 30th) are often celebrated with extra festivity to symbolize new beginnings.
Thank-You Gifts
You don’t need a special occasion to show someone you appreciate them; a small, heartfelt gift can brighten their day. Whether it’s a colleague, a friend, or a family member, a personalized gift speaks volumes. Thank-you gifts often include small items such as gourmet snacks, nut gifts, candles, or handwritten cards.
Get Well Soon
When someone you care about is not feeling well or recovering from illness, a Get Well Soon gift can remind them they’re not alone. Thoughtful presents like books, cozy blankets, or care packages filled with premium mixed nuts and treats add a little joy to their recovery.
Housewarming
When your loved one moves into a new place, a thoughtful housewarming gift can transform their house or apartment into a home. Gifts for new homeowners include kitchenware, plants, or decorative items.
Welcome Gifts
Whether it’s for new neighbors settling in or a coworker joining the team, a Welcome Gift is more than just a kind gesture. These gifts often include baked goods or small, useful items. It's just a way to make someone feel welcomed.
Boss’s Day (October 16)
A workplace occasion where employees show appreciation with small gifts like coffee mugs or desk accessories. In recent years, digital gifts, such as e-cards, have also become popular, especially in remote or hybrid work environments.
Black Friday / Cyber Monday (Day after Thanksgiving / Monday after Thanksgiving)
Black Friday sets the start for the holiday shopping season. Cyber Monday, which follows that weekend, focuses on online sales. While known for shopping deals, some people use these days to purchase gifts for upcoming gift-giving holidays.
The Meaning Behind Gift-Giving
Whether it’s a grand holiday or a simple act of kindness, exchanging presents on gift holidays strengthens relationships and creates lasting memories. From major gift-giving holidays like Christmas and Valentine’s Day to personal occasions like birthdays and thank-you gestures, the U.S. has many opportunities to celebrate with gifts for all occasions.
