In today’s culture, holiday wish lists have evolved beyond classic toys, with tweens and teens often requesting high-ticket items like the latest iPhone, designer apparel or high-tech gadgets. However, these popular gifts can carry a hefty price tag and may end up gathering dust months later, barely used. For parents, the pressure to keep up with these requests adds financial strain and an emotional toll that can overshadow the true spirit of the season. Increasingly, families are turning to an alternative that focuses on quality time and shared memories rather than material items: experience-based gifting.

According to a survey by the American Psychological Association, 64 percent of parents feel pressured to purchase expensive gifts to keep up with societal expectations. This “holiday pressure”, as experts have coined it, impacts not only finances, but also parents’ mental well-being. Shifting the focus from possessions to experiences can help alleviate that stress and create deeper connections, bringing families closer while celebrating the season in memorable ways.

Creating holiday memories with tweens and teens doesn’t require grand gestures or extravagant costs. Many local experiences provide meaningful ways to come together, even for families with older kids. Here are five ideas for creating lasting family memories during the holiday season:

Explore a Local Holiday Light Show Together – Many parks and botanical gardens host breathtaking holiday light displays that delight teens as much as younger children. Walking through these illuminated wonderlands can become an annual tradition, perfect for capturing Insta-worthy photos and sipping hot cocoa.

Attend a Festive Culinary Workshop – From holiday cookie decorating to gingerbread house building, many local bakeries and cooking schools offer workshops that appeal to all ages. Teens and tweens enjoy these hands-on, creative experiences, and the end result is a sweet treat everyone can enjoy.

Ice Skating or Snow Tubing Outing – Outdoor rinks and local slopes offer plenty of winter fun, ideal for families with older kids who are looking for a bit more action. These activities provide laughter, bonding and a bit of seasonal magic, plus plenty of opportunities for candid holiday photos.

Catch a Classic Holiday Movie in Theaters – Many indie theaters bring back holiday classics like Elf and The Polar Express. This cozy tradition lets teens experience seasonal movies in a nostalgic way, making it a fun and relaxed night out for the entire family.

Join a Community Service Event – Families often find volunteering around the holidays particularly rewarding. Wrapping gifts for those in need, preparing meals at a shelter, or distributing holiday supplies gives everyone a sense of purpose and gratitude that will resonate well beyond the season.

For those looking to take the adventure a bit further, the holidays present a unique opportunity to explore new places and cultures. Research from the U.S. Travel Association suggests that family trips strengthen bonds, with 60 percent of families reporting that travel improves communication and connection. These five family-friendly destinations provide opportunities for holiday bonding and unforgettable memories:

Go on a Costa Rican Rainforest Adventure – For families seeking warmth and excitement, Costa Rica offers thrilling activities like zip-lining, jungle treks and wildlife tours. Older kids can enjoy adventure mixed with an appreciation of nature and conservation efforts.

Explore Mexico’s Ancient Ruins and Beaches – Discovering the ruins of Chichen Itza or Tulum offers a rich cultural experience for all ages. Teens and tweens will be captivated by the history, the beauty, and the awe-inspiring views along Mexico’s coastlines.

Soak in the Atmosphere of Italy’s Christmas Markets – Cities like Florence and Rome are renowned for their enchanting Christmas markets, filled with unique gifts, traditional crafts and delicious holiday treats. This trip combines cultural exposure with festive holiday cheer in the heart of Italy.

Hit the Slopes in Lake Tahoe – For those who enjoy snow sports, Lake Tahoe’s ski resorts provide the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Whether skiing, snowboarding, or simply warming up in a cozy cabin, this destination creates a winter wonderland escape everyone can enjoy.

This holiday season, shifting from physical gifts to experiences can make the celebrations feel richer and more meaningful. Dr. Lisa Sanchez, an expert on family psychology, notes, “Experiences carry emotional weight and value, fostering connections that last much longer than any toy.” Indeed, while gadgets and trendy items may lose their appeal, the shared laughter, stories, and adventures of family experiences remain etched in memory, strengthening bonds and enriching family life for years to come.