THE GIFT OF TOGETHERNESS
From $10 to $2,000, here are some holiday presents designed to be enjoyed with others
My holiday gift-giving habits have traditionally concentrated on the preferences of each individual family member or friend. This year I'm switching things up. I am buying family and “group” (can't forget the roommate households) gifts that everyone can enjoy together. Whether it involves cooking, game nights, activities and more — there is a wide range of fun gifts for those who enjoy spending time together at home. Of course, friends and family who live alone will still receive a thoughtful gift — any of these would do nicely, too! Hope this offers up some inspiration to help you find the perfect gifts for others.
FOR THE FAMILY THAT DANCES
To help get your group groove on, I found the new 2023 Just Dance music video game ($80 ubisoft. com). It co-ordinates with the Nintendo Switch system, Playstation 5 and Xbox Series
XS. The game includes online multiplayers, allowing up to five people to join in from around the world. Imagine ... a world date night dance!
FOR THE FAMILY THAT HIKES
For those who enjoy hiking or getting together for winter walks, the Rambler Lowball insulated cup ($25, yeti.ca) represents the perfect way to sip a hot toddy, drink tea or coffee and stay warm while outside and on the move. Hosting an outdoor s'mores winter patio party? These cups are the perfect replacement for crystal lowballs and allow you to
serve up your libations in practical style.
FOR THE FAMILY THAT PLAYS
There's nothing more Canadian than the sport of hockey. But for those of us who don't fare well on skates, an air hockey table is the next best thing. The retro return of the Hockey Night In Canada Premium Air Hockey Table ($250, walmart.ca) will have household members and visitors of all ages competing for their
THE FAMILY THAT CELEBRATES
One of the most important ceremonies during Hanukkah is the lighting of the candles. Modern versions of the menorah have emerged, reflecting the trend toward stone and marble. Value-retailer Homesense carries beautiful Hanukkah candle holders for under $30 and the white marble version stands out as something that could be reconfigured and used throughout the year. Now that's a gift that shines bright all year long.
FOR THE FAMILY THAT COOKS
For many families, connecting through cooking and eating represents the greatest gift of all. The Thermomix countertop
appliance has been described as `the worlds strongest blender' but offers many more features. It single-handedly replaces 15 to 20 countertop appliances by steaming, sautéing, chopping, blending and so much more. This 50+-year-old iconic appliance has previously been available only in white. This year, following the trends of `black is back' for the kitchen, the Thermomix has been introduced for a limited edition in Noir a.k.a. black. It can make risotto in one pot, no stirring required, and precisely instructs how much of each ingredient to add. Dear Santa: forgo the next 15 years of countertop appliance gifts and drop one of these sous chefs down the chimney, please.
FOR THE FAMILY THAT GROWS
The cutest, greenest and sweetest gift I found was the General Supply Goods + Co Grow Your Own Christmas Tree Kit, $9.98, staples.ca. It's the gift that keeps on growing and in time (it takes 15 years to grow a seven-foot Christmas tree), you'll have a live Christmas tree to celebrate. Save Christmas, plant a tree.