experience gifts

Best Holiday Gift Picks (Experiences)

by Betty on December 20, 2012

[This is a holiday series of eco-friendly gift-giving ideas!  Enjoy]

 

Continuing with the holiday gift guide series, here are a few more ideas for local experiences that would make great presents. Experiences make wonderful green gifts because they provide a fun and memorable way for family and friends to bond without increasing the amount of “stuff” accumulating in your house. Plus, you help strengthen the local economy by keeping your dollars in the area. Consider giving your loved ones:

 

1. Tickets to a local musical performance. Charlottesville is home to a whole host of terrific music venues that support local musicians. Try one of the following:

 

  • The Jefferson – Located on the Downtown Mall, the Jefferson Theater was historically home to silent movies, vaudeville acts, and performers such as The Three Stooges and Harry Houdini. Reopened in 2009, The Jefferson has state of the art lighting and sound systems that make for a great live music experience. (434) 245-4980. 110 East Main Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902.
  • The Southern – Just off the Downtown Mall, The Southern is both café and music hall. (434) 977-5590. 103 South 1st Street, Charlottesville, VA 22902.
  • The Garage – On any given night, you can find the Garage’s door wide open as they host art openings or concerts by local and regional bands. They focus on community, creativity, collaboration and accessibility. 1st Street N, Charlottesville VA 22902.
  • Cville Coffee – A local coffee shop in Downtown Charlottesville, Cville Coffee also hosts Stage Café every Friday and Saturday, showcasing a wide variety of musicians. (434) 817-2633. 1301 Harris Street, Charlottesville, VA 22903. (Cville Coffee is a supporter of local environmental work; let them know you think that’s great!)

 

2. Gift certificates to try out a new activity. Websites like WishWish and LivingSocial offer highly discounted deals on local products and activities. Previous deals have included art classes, skydiving, yoga classes, rock climbing, and golfing. Give your family and friends the gift of adventure by checking out:

 

 

3. Gift certificates for health and fitness services. Health and sustainability go hand in hand. Help your friends and family cultivate a healthy body and mind in the New Year by giving tem the gift of:

 

  • ACAC Membership
  • Yoga classes – Try Allied Yoga for yoga classes, Charlottesville’s favorite for 2011 and 2012; or check out Breathe Studio for meditation classes! (We know that Breathe Studio supports environmental work at the local level, so check them out and let them know you love what they’re doing!)
  • Pilates classes – Check out TruPilates, voted Charlottesville’s favorite since 2006!
  • Dance classes – Learn to tango with Charlottesville Tango, swing dance with Swing Cville, or try out more classical dance genres with Charlottesville Performing Arts School or Wilson School of Dance.
  • Whatever you like! Pick your favorite place, and you and your friend can exercise together.

 

These are just a few ideas. Get creative, and you are sure to find the perfect experience to gift your family and friends! Have more ideas? Share them in the comments!

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