Happy holidays, Raleigh. We’ve spent hours curating our collection of 2025’s best holiday gifts — from budget picks and standout presents, to local gems and unforgettable experiences. Read on for 60+ gift ideas for everyone on your list, complete with price details and why we think they’re worth unwrapping.
Gifts for your significant other
Is it just us, or are partners always the hardest (but usually the most fun) to shop for? Shop our top picks to make them feel warm, cozy, and loved this winter.
Local pick: Umstead Classic Swedish Massage | $210 | Anyone could use a relaxing day at the Umstead. Treat your beau to an hour of deep relaxation and muscle relief.
Shiatsu foot massager | $79.99 | Nothing says “I love you” like a foot massage — give your hands a break and gift one complete with heat, vibration, and rolling compression.
Bedside lamp with wireless charger and Bluetooth speaker | $59.99 | This elegant night light does it all, from wireless phone charging and music playing, to propping up streaming and e-reading devices.
Local pick: Videri’s 40 piece Bonbon Box | $110 | Spare no expense for your partner — they deserve it.This box will have your chocolate lover in heaven
Barefoot Dreams blanket wrap | $178 | Elevate cozy holiday moments with a luxurious cardigan that might just be the softest thing they’ve ever draped around them.
Women’s UGG Tasman slipper + Men’s UGG Tasman slipper | $124.95+ | UGG perfected the indoor and outdoor slipper with its best-selling, sheepskin-lined Tasman design.
Full-zip flannel jacket | $36.99 | Flannel, cotton, and fleece combine in this ultra-soft, stylish hoodie.
Gifts for parents
Explore standout finds for parents and families that will save time + space, foster good-natured laughs, and promote rest and recovery.
Local pick: NC Serving Board | $46 | Serve your next charcuterie selection on this NC-themed board and you’ll be the talk of the PTA meeting.
Snack organizer | $36.95 | Kids will love this snack spinner’s push button and slidable compartments — and parents will love how it makes snack time portable and stress-free.
Car backseat organizer | $25.99 | Gift parents peaceful car rides thanks to a two-pack of car organizers complete with a clear tablet holder and multiple compartments.
Local pick: Downtown Raleigh Onesie | $25 | Have your favorite baby rep Raleigh right out of the womb with this celebration of the downtown skyline.
Neck and back massager | $59.99 | Parents can’t always carve out time for the spa, but they can pop on this heated, deep tissue massager after a long day.
Daily dad jokes calendar | $13.99 | Make 2026 the year of never-ending puns with over 150 dad jokes in this monthly wall calendar.
Local pick: Classic Shibumi Shade with Wind Assist | $288 | This shade is going to make your loved one’s next trip to the beach so much better.
Mama bear slippers | $28 | As if these “Mama bear” slippers aren’t cute enough, the insides feature a teddy footbed for maximum softness.
Gifts for retirees
Whether they’re diving into long-awaited passions, trying a new hobby, or simply savoring well-earned relaxation, foster exploration and curiosity with our top gifts for retirees.
Local pick: All Things North Carolina 550 piece Puzzle | $22 | This intricate puzzle features icons from every corner of the Tar Heel state.
Garden kneeler and stool | $30.90 | Gardening’s more fun without the knee and back pain — we love this all-in-one stool that functions as both a bench and seat + organizes garden tools.
Smart birdfeeder with camera | $159.99 | Birders can watch special visitors up close with this durable and weatherproof birdfeeder.
Local pick: ”Deep Run Roots” by Vivian Howard | $45 | Howard is well-known for her PBS show and this recipe book suited for home cooks of all skill levels.
8-pack puzzle set | $20.91 | These scenic jigsaw puzzles scale up from 300 pieces to 1,000 pieces, all in one great gift.
eBike | $699 | Once they’ve tried pedal assist mode on this 4.6-star rated eBike, they’ll never go back to regular cycling again.
Local pick: Joy Worthy Co. | Price varies | Gift creativity with a class from Joy Worthy Co. Choose from cookie decorating, paint pouring, and woodburning for a fun night out.
Pickleball set | $49.99 | These fiberglass surface pickleball paddles, grip tape, pickleballs, and portable carriers are the perfect intro gift for those looking to learn the game.
Gifts for students
Whether they’re graduating high school or living it up at college, they’ll love showing off these campus-approved gifts in school.
Local pick: Spicewalla 3 Pack Everything Collection | $22 | Don’t let your favorite student suffer bland food at school. Spice things up with these flavor-packed blends that can make just about anything tastier.
Fidget toy pen | $16.99 | A great stocking stuffer, this chromatic, magnetic pen can be stacked into various shapes when it’s not in use as a writing tool or stylus.
Personalized senior 2026 shirt | $14.95 | The perfect fit for students to return from winter break wearing, this customizable sweatshirt will show off their “Class of 2026” pride.
Bullet journal pens + 2026 planner | $11.99 + $24.99 | Pair a 24-pack of rainbow pens with a 2026 Happy Planner for creative, aesthetic organization.
Local pick: Carolina Hurricanes Player Hoodie | $54 | Cozy up for your next Canes watch party or game at the Lenovo Center with this warm hoodie — and 10% of proceeds go to the Carolina Hurricanes Foundation.
Electric sauté pan | $36.99 | A TikTok trending item, this electric mini hot pot is perfect for whipping up noodles, oatmeal, eggs, and stir fries, dorm room-style.
Lap desk | $34.99 | This 4.7-star rated lap desk helps students prop up laptops while reclined — it even has a phone holder.
Gifts for young people
Trying to find the hottest gifts for your grandkids, nieces, and nephews? After doing a little research (and learning a lot about Gen Z and Gen Alpha), these are our top picks for young people.
Local pick: Woobles Easy Peasy Beginner Bundle | $100 | Kids will love learning this new skill with easy-to-crochet yarn and a cute animal creation.
LED dry erase board | $26.99 | Bring coloring time to a whole new level with this magic board that makes any drawing look like a neon sign.
Karaoke microphone | $19.99 | With over 800 five-star reviews, this karaoke mic acts as a Bluetooth speaker, recorder, and voice changer.
Local pick: Marbles Kids Museum membership | $110+ | Give the gift of learning + play at this acclaimed kids museum that cultivates little ones’ imaginations and problem solving skills.
Free People cotton blend sweatshirt | $78 | You can’t go wrong with a versatile, oversized sweatshirt from Free People in colors including Black Cherry and Highlighter.
Digital camera | $49.99 | Is it just us, or is every young person switching from iPhone to digital pictures these days? Gift them a compact, stylish camera to capture photos on.
Light-up football | $39.90 | Backyard football is now possible at night, thanks to this LED light-up football.
Gifts for holiday parties and gift exchanges
Headed to your company’s holiday mixer, your family’s annual gift exchange, or the neighborhood’s white elephant party? This section’s for you. Some of these gifts are practical, while others are just silly.
Local pick: Ornaments from Edge of Urge | $8-$45 | This quirky store has a wide variety of ornaments, including a jar of cheese balls, Dwight from “The Office,” and Martha Stewart. Plus, get free gift wrapping in store.
Computer memo and message board | $6.98 | Perfect for your work bestie, this will help them organize their notes and to-do lists.
Local pick: Conniption Kinship Gin | $37.99 | This locally distilled gin changes colors when combined with acids like lemon juice and tonic water, and it will look gorgeous on an aspiring mixologist’s bar cart.
“HR Approved Way To Say Things I Can’t Say Out Loud At Work” | $11.99 | This witty collection of “translations” is sure to create some chuckles around the office.
Monopoly Deal | $7.99 | This fun + family-friendly gift is a fast-paced version of the classic Monopoly board game.
Local pick: Spicewalla Kitchen Essentials Pantry Refresh | $110 | Ground fresh and packed to order in Asheville, this 18-tin spice set is made for the home chef who’s always stirring up something special, but could use an ingredient upgrade.
Three pounds of really good salt | $51.90 | This one is sure to get some strange looks, but its silliness and sheer practicality might make it the most memorable gift at the party.
Existential crisis duck lamp | $16.99 | This amusing, rechargeable light is cord-free + a cute desk accessory.
Gifts for adventurers
For those who feel more at home under the open sky than a roof, these gifts will hit the mark — from a top-rated dry bag to a luxe camp cushion that brings indoor comforts to the campfire.
Local pick: Shibumi Shade with quiet canopy | $295 | This one’s for the beach bums — plus, the quiet canopy will make your day by the sea that much more relaxing.
Trekking poles | $29.99 | Hikers will love these lightweight and durable trekking poles that can tackle multiple types of terrain.
Camp cushion | $135 | A plush yet durable cushion that’s ideal for nights by the campfire.
Earthpack waterproof drybag | $19.99 | A true must for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors, this will keep their belongings dry if a freak rainstorm strikes.
Local pick: Postcard Cabins getaway | $150+ | This tiny cabin getaway in Asheboro — just about 90 minutes from RAL — opens up a world of adventure for your favorite go-getter.
Portable solar lights | $80 | Upgrade their campsite setup with these lights that easily switch from ground illumination to string lights.
“Where Should We Camp Next?” National Parks book | $12.95 | Inspire their next great adventure with this guide to 300+ of the best camping and glamping spots in and around national parks.
Gifts for golfers
Fore! Surprise the match-play aficionado in your life with a gift they can use on or off the green — no ifs, ands, or putts.
Local pick: Dogwood Rope Hat | $35 | What’s cooler than a fresh new golf hat? One that reps Raleigh’s indoor golf spot, Dogwood Country Club, and NC’s state flower.
Indoor putting green | $64.99 | Golfers won’t be able to resist trying out this 9.5-ft indoor putting green the day they unwrap it.
Frustrated golfer socks | $9.99 | This No. 1 best-selling pair of men’s novelty socks is sure to get a laugh.
Magnetic golf towel | $31.95 | Rated 4.7 stars, this microfiber towel sticks to golf carts or clubs so they won’t lose it around the green.
Local pick: PGA Superstore gift card | Any amount | This store’s got everything your favorite golf fanatic needs so you don’t need to know the difference between a wedge and an iron.
Golf cooler bag | $25.99 | This slim, compact cooler bag can be stowed in the side pocket of most golf bags and fits up to six beer cans.
Play Nine: The card game of golf | $19.99 | Just like in golf, the lowest score wins in this family-friendly card game with nearly 20,000 glowing reviews.
Gifts for pet lovers
Whether their best friend is a gentle giant or a tiny furball, these gifts are made for true pet lovers who wouldn’t trade their companion for the world.
Local pick: “Strike & Stay: The Story of The Plott Hound” | $24.99 | Did you know North Carolina has a state dog? The Plott hound calls NC home, and this book is authored by original breeder Johannes Plott’s great-great-great-grandson.
Personalized 2026 pet calendar | $23.99 | For that special someone who likes their pet more than people. We don’t judge.
4-in-1 convertible hands-free leash | $46 | This chic and durable leash can be adjusted to wear four different ways.
Local pick: Custom Pet Portrait Sweatshirt | $40+ | Does your favorite paw-rent want to rep their pet whenever possible? Get them a customized sweater made by a local to keep them cozy all winter.
Backseat cover | $32.99 | A safe and easy-to-clean backseat cover for the person that takes their dog with them everywhere.
Hydropet water bottle | $29.99 | Not your average water bottle, this unique product has dual detachable pet bowls for food + water on the go.
Local pick: Carolina Tiger Rescue Twilight Tour | $35 per person | See your feline friend’s relatives at their most active time of day.
Customizable pet embroidered sweatshirt | $120+ | So they can always keep their fur babies close to their heart.
Gifts for people who have everything
The hard-to-shop-for crowd — would it truly be the holidays without them? Sure, your mother-in-law might have every juice glass Anthropologie’s ever made — but does she have an olive oil mister?
Local pick: Chef’s Table at Second Empire | Price varies | This one’s for the foodies. Dine like a VIP at one of the best restaurants in Raleigh with a small table and unique wine pairings.
Wine decanter | $59.99 | Wine lovers will appreciate this handblown glass decanter that features a large area design to foster maximum aeration.
Personalized word search throw blanket | $175 | Talk about a gift that’s one-of-a-kind — customize this blanket with up to 15 words and any theme.
Local pick: Zipline & Treetop Adventure with Go Ape | $56 per person | Navigate the forest canopy and zip through the oaks in this one-of-a-kind adventure.
Olive oil mister | $9.99 | A handy gift they can use to turn oil into a fine mist or a steady drizzle.
Towel warmer | $146.99 | The only thing better than a warm shower is emerging from said shower with a fresh, hot towel.
Local pick: Duke Lemur Center Walking with Lemurs Tour | $85+ | Meet the most endangered mammal up close and personal on this one-of-a-kind experience fit for any animal lover.
Salt & Stone hand cream | $20 | Sometimes it’s simple things that make the best gifts. This top-rated hand cream is sure to impress.
Gifts for book lovers
Looking for the perfect gift for book worms, that isn’t a book? We’ve got you covered. Shop our list of book-themed gifts that celebrate their favorite pastime.
Local pick: Blackbird Books & Coffee gift card | Any amount | This cozy City Market shop is a book lover’s dream, and your bookworm can use this card on coffee or a few new hardcovers.
The Book Lover’s Advent Calendar | $30 | Surprise the bibliophile in your life with this cozy advent calendar filled with reading-themed bookmarks, stickers, and ornaments.
Local pick: “27 Views of Raleigh” | $15.95 | This book of prose + poetry with an intro by Wilton Barnhardt paints a vivid portrait of Oak City.
Literary quote clock | $209 | Why tell time the normal way when you could use 13,000 curated literary quotes?
“Reading is my favorite sport” sweatshirt | $52 | Whether they’re rooting for Liz and Mr. Darcy, Feyre and Rhysand, or Violet and Xaden, celebrate the sport they’re always playing.
“To be read” storage basket | $19.98 | Perfect for that friend with an amazing aesthetic bookcase, this TBR book storage basket is both functional and adorable.
Local pick: Wood-carved bookmark | $10 | You can find Rustic Raleigh products at gift stores across the Triangle, and we like this flower-carved one.
Kindle Unlimited membership | $65.95+ | The best thing you can gift a bibliophile? Over four million titles of free books.
Gifts that ship fast
Behind on holiday shopping? We’ve all been there. These thoughtful gifts are available with Prime two-day shipping, so they’ll arrive just in time.
Women’s pajama set | Prices vary on color and pattern | These ultra-soft pjs are available in 40+ colors and patterns, from classic solids to fun holiday patterns.
Trifold leather wallet | $32.99 | Upgrade their worn-out wallet to this stylish + functional one that boasts RFID blocking technology.
Owala FreeSip | $29.98 | This 4.7-star rated water bottle is loved for its patented FreeSip design that allows you to sip upright through a built-in straw or tilt back to swig a gulp.
Satchel crossbody bag | $35.14 | A chic and practical choice for the handbag lover in your life.
Herd Mentality card game | $24.99 | This udderly hilarious + family-friendly card game is a perfect stocking stuffer.
Gifts under $20
Holiday magic doesn’t have to break the bank. Check out our favorite festive finds — all $20 or less.
Local pick: Cook Out T-shirt | $1.99 with the purchase of a tray | Any proud North Carolinian — or excited visitor — will love sporting this iconic fast food chain.
Fleece pullover | $7.99 | This oversized fluffy sweatshirt is what cozy winter dreams are made of.
Foldable travel jewelry case | $15.99 | Five different jewelry compartments make it easy to organize rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
Local pick: Big Spoon Roasters Lum Lum Thai Curry Peanut & Cashew Butter | $16.95 | Dig into this unique spiced nut butter — this goes perfect in baked goods.
Shower steamers | $9.99 | This best-selling assortment features scents like lavender, eucalyptus, and rosemary.
Local pick: Nons Pinching Salts | $15 | Sprinkle these on anything that needs a little extra flavor – the Carolina Reaper salt won a Made in NC award.
Cast iron burger press | $19.99 | Surprise your foodie friend with this smash burger press that works on skillets, griddles, gas grills, and more.
Local pick: 8-inch ceramic NC trivet | $16 | Upgrade the kitchen of any North Carolinian with this decorative trivet.
Best-selling plaid chunky scarf | $14.99 | Elevate their winter wardrobe with this best-selling scarf they’ll use for years to come.
Gifts for the proud Raleighite
Holiday gifting = the perfect excuse to show your 919 pride. Shop great gifts for Raleighites that pay tribute to the best city + sports teams in the nation (we’re biased, of course).
Local pick: Oak City Amaratto | $31 | Get a taste of grandma’s Sicilian amaretto made right here in Raleigh, and you’re supporting a disabled veteran-owned biz.
Local pick: City of Oaks Tee | $26 | Grab this shirt for the local who loves Raleigh — plus, it’s designed by a local and sold in a fave downtown gift shop.
Local pick: Carolina Hurricanes lululemon hoodie | $210 | Rep the Canes in style and stay warm on and off the ice.
Local pick: Asheville Tea Company Mountain Chai | $18.95 | Warm up with this WNC-made tea blend.
Local pick: North Carolina Museum of Art Membership | $50+ | Give the gift of support for the arts including one free exhibition ticket per day, a quarterly magazine, and discounts at the museum store + cafe.
