What to bring when someone's hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year's Eve
Host gifts with good reviews, for when someone else is doing the cooking. Candles, games and a few things that last longer than a bunch of flowers.
6 gifts scored from public reviews · $15 to $87 · Updated
The shortlist
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If someone’s cooking for you over the holidays, it’s polite to bring something. These are host gifts that score well with the people who bought them, and none of them leave the host hunting for a vase while the gravy burns.
Each gift links to a full page with its sources and the complaints people make about it.
The safe choice
NEOM Perfect Night's Sleep candle (1 wick)
$51
Most people know the name and like the smell. The main complaint is that it's small for the price.
Not for: Anyone who judges a candle by its size. You're paying for the oils and the name, not the amount of wax.
Instead of flowers
LEGO Icons Flower Bouquet (10280)
$60
Real flowers need a vase straight away. These need building first, so the host can do it later when everyone's gone home.
- The Brothers Brick No star rating. Cited for what it says.
Not for: Someone who wants a finished thing to put straight on the table. You'll need a vase, and someone has to build it.
For a New Year's Eve party
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12
$87
Leave it on the table with a pack of film and guests will take photos all night. The host keeps the prints.
- Digital Camera World No star rating. Cited for what it says.
Not for: Someone who wants control over their photos. The camera picks the exposure and flash for you.
If you're bringing something small
Burt's Bees Essential Kit
$15
A cheap, useful extra if you're also bringing a bottle.
Not for: Someone who's vegan, or who already has a bathroom full of miniatures they never open.
Charbonnel et Walker Pink Marc de Champagne Truffles (200g)
$32
Milk chocolate truffles with champagne and strawberry, in the pink box people recognise. A thank-you present that looks the part.
Not for: Children, anyone who avoids alcohol, or someone who'd rather have a big bar for a quarter of the price.
Questions people ask
Should I bring wine or a gift?
Either is fine. Wine tends to get opened with the meal, while a gift is something the host keeps. If you're not sure whether they drink, a candle or a game is the safer choice.
How much should a host gift cost?
There's no rule. Most people spend roughly what they'd spend on a decent bottle of wine. Spending a lot more can make a host feel awkward.
Should the host open it in front of everyone?
They don't have to, and many won't while they're busy cooking. Hand it over quietly and don't worry if it's put aside until later.