The festive season is here, and, like every year, giving and receiving gifts brings excitement and sets the mood for the holidays. Whether big or small, a gift still means a lot. If you want to make this period special for your friends, siblings, parents, children, employees, partners, and loved ones, here is a compilation of items to help you choose the perfect gift ideas. ALSO READ: Your guide to Kigali’s best events this Christmas season Shoes, accessories During the festive season, people want to look their best. For partners, children, siblings, or friends, new clothes, shoes, or stylish accessories bring delight. Adding a little personal touch, like a scarf, hat, or handwritten note, shows thoughtfulness and makes the gift feel even more special. ALSO READ: Must-watch movies, shows to get you in festive season Food and grocery hampers When thinking about parents, relatives, neighbours, or staff, a food or grocery hamper is always welcome. A basket filled with basics or festive treats helps families celebrate without added stress and shows care. Cash and monetary support If you want to give something that really helps, cash can be the answer. For parents, children, extended family, or young adults, money can cover school fees, transport, rent, or even holiday plans. Given with care, it shows you notice what they need and trust them to use it well. Toys, clothes and games For children, festive gifts are all about fun and feeling included. Toys, clothes, storybooks, school bags, bicycles, puzzles, or games spark joy and make them feel part of the celebration. Even small presents can light up their day. Phones and other gadgets When it comes to working adults, parents, or partners, gadgets can be a useful choice. Smartphones, power banks, radios, earphones, or other small electronics help with communication, work, and daily tasks. They make day-to-day life smoother. If you can, buy someone a new phone and they will be happy to start a new year with a new device. Beauty, grooming and self-care items If you want to spoil someone special, beauty and self-care items are a simple way to do it. Perfume, skincare products, hair care sets, or a spa voucher make someone take a moment for themselves and feel appreciated. These gifts show thoughtfulness and help the person relax and enjoy the festive season a little more. Outings, trips, and special moments Sometimes the best gift isn’t something you can hold. For a partner or close family, taking a day to share a meal, go on a short trip, or just enjoy a quiet celebration together creates memories that last long. You can plan a trip to Musanze, Rubavu or Kigali or any other city, or even to a foreign country, depending on where you are and what you prefer. On a leaner budget, you can also go with familty to a favourite hotel or restaurant to share the meals and have fun. You can also pay a visit to relatives and friends you haven't seen in a longtime. These are the moments people remember and talk about after the festive season is over. Business or work support If you know someone who is running a small business or starting a project of their own, giving them tools, stock or equipment can make a difference. You can even send them some cash, why not? This shows you see their hard work and want to back them up. These gifts make daily work easier and also show that you believe in what they are building and the future they are working toward. Books, journals For students, professionals, or anyone who enjoys learning, a gift that feeds the mind can mean a lot. Books, journals, or other learning materials encourage curiosity, personal growth, and moments of self-discovery, in addition to giving ideas and inspiration. Plants, flowers For homeowners and parents, gifts that enhance living spaces can be both beautiful and lasting. Plants, flowers, or small home improvements like a new paint in the living room or outbring life, color, and freshness to a home, creating an environment that feels cared for and inviting. These gifts continue to bring joy even after the festive season. Cards, photos and personal messages If you want to make a gift special for someone close to you, adding a personal touch can make all the difference. A handwritten card, a framed photo, or a short, heartfelt message gives emotional value to any present and becomes the part they treasure most. These simple gestures show thoughtfulness and care. School fees, medical bills, rent, and food support When someone you care about is going through a difficult time, the most valuable gift can be practical support rather than something wrapped. Covering school fees, medical bills, rent, or providing food during the festive season may seem simple, but it carries a powerful message of care and solidarity. Such gestures alleviate their burdens and bring hope. Support community through charity If you are thinking of gifting in the spirit of giving back, then supporting community, faith groups, or vulnerable families can be both meaningful and impactful. Donations to local charities, organizing or contributing to community meals, or sharing essentials with those in need show the meaning of the festive season. These gifts spread joy, hope, and care to people who may be struggling. Faith-based items When it comes to gifting someone who is faith-focused, there are meaningful options that can inspire and support their spiritual journey. Devotionals, faith-based books, or journals offer daily guidance and reflection, while a Bible, Quran, or other sacred texts provides a lasting source of comfort and wisdom. You could also consider prayer items or accessories that enhance their practice, such as rosaries, prayer mats, or candles. Another considerate idea is to make a contribution to their church, mosque, or faith community in their name. Such gifts honor their beliefs and show that you respect what matters most to them. Sport equipment If you are thinking of gifting a sports enthusiast, then there is plenty of options that can both excite and support their passion. Quality sportswear, designed for comfort and performance, is always appreciated, whether it’s running gear, training outfits, or branded sneakers. You can also consider equipment that matches their favorite activity, such as balls, skipping ropes, resistance bands, or home fitness tools, which allow them to train anytime. For those who enjoy structured workouts, a gym membership or access to fitness classes can be a great gift that encourages regular exercise and wellness. Choosing something that aligns with their specific interests shows you understand and support their healthy lifestyle. Home items For couples who have just got married and are starting a family, home items could be an option. For example, curtains, carpets, and wall clocks can add comfort and style to a living space. Storage solutions are also useful and come in many forms, such as wardrobes or portable fabric closets that help organize clothes when space is limited. Kitchen storage containers keep grains, flour, sugar, rice, and spices neatly arranged; and drawer organizers make utensils, cutlery, or personal items easy to find. Other helpful options include shoe racks or cabinets to keep footwear tidy, laundry baskets or hampers, food storage bins or jars for snacks and dry goods, bathroom storage containers for toiletries, closet or hanging organizers for small wardrobe spaces, and toy or miscellaneous bins for future children or house items. It doesn't have to be someone you know... Most of the gift ideas mentioned above are about people you know, friends, family and workmates. But gifts should not stop at that. You can also give gifts or show a kind heart to people you don't know. If you go shopping, you can offer to pay the bill for one shopper, ask them to add one more item you can pay, or ask the cashier at the supermarket what he/she would like to have for a gift. That not only lights up their day, it also reminds them that they are not mere strangers or workers on duty. To a happy and joyful festive season!
