If you’re looking for birthday presents or Christmas gifts for kids that feel more meaningful than another toy or gadget, experiences are a great way to create lasting memories. From interactive activities to calm backyard moments, these children’s gift experiences can be a perfect way to celebrate all kinds of special occasions.
Because we know the joy is often in the unwrapping, we’ve added simple gift ideas for kids that tie into each experience. You can tuck it under the Christmas tree with a note or “ticket” for the upcoming adventure, hand it over at their birthday party, or save it for the moment the fun begins. Whatever fits the celebration!
Active experiences for kids
Sometimes kids need an adventure that gets their energy buzzing. These activities turn everyday spaces into action-packed playgrounds where your little one can explore, discover, and conquer.
🔍 Scavenger hunt
Set up clues and treasure around the house, backyard, or even a local park or trail, and let your kiddo follow the fun. Watch their excitement grow as each clue leads them one step closer to the big surprise.
🎁 Gift tie-in: A spy kit or backpack for collecting treasure.
⛳ Mini golf day
Take the family to a mini golf course or build your own whimsical version at home with household items. Every putt becomes a playful challenge that brings out both giggles and a touch of friendly competition.
🎁 Gift tie-in: A set of custom golf balls or personalized scorecards.
Backyard experiences for kids
You don’t have to travel far to make memories. Sometimes the best fun happens right outside your door. These backyard adventures bring big excitement without ever leaving home.
🎞️ Movie night
Create a movie experience right in your own backyard, or move it inside if the weather won’t cooperate. Add cozy blankets, favorite snacks, and a large movie screen to make it extra special.
🎁 Gift tie-in: A set of pajamas, a favorite movie on Blu-ray, or a cool popcorn bucket.
🎪 Home carnival
Turn your house or yard into a carnival complete with games, prizes, and maybe even a circus performer or two. With each ring toss, face paint design, or silly contest, the fun just keeps rolling.
🎁 Gift tie-in: A bundle of custom carnival tickets to spend, or a cotton candy or snow cone maker.
Animal encounter experiences for kids
For little animal lovers, nothing beats meeting cute critters up close. These experience gift ideas add a sprinkle of wonder and a whole lot of heart to any day together.
🐴 Pony rides
Visit a local equestrian center or hire a pony party company for a gentle, magical ride. Kids love the chance to meet and bond with their temporary four-legged friend.
🎁 Gift tie-in: Cowboy hat, cowboy boots, or a toy horse.
🐐 Petting zoo
Head to a local petting zoo or bring one straight to your backyard for a hands-on animal adventure. It’s a delightful way for kids to learn about animals while getting in some snuggles.
🎁 Gift tie-in: Animal-themed plush toy or a book about animals.
Live entertainment experiences for kids
Bring the magic straight to your little one with entertainment that feels larger than life. These experiences create memories your kiddo will talk about long after the last curtain call.
🦸 Character visit
Invite a princess, superhero, or favorite character to surprise your kiddo with stories, games, and photo ops. It’s the kind of moment that makes their eyes go wide and their day feel extraordinary. For the holiday season, have Santa or a Christmas elf deliver something special from their gift list.
🎁 Gift tie-in: Themed accessory or costume piece that ties into the visiting character.
🪄 Live show
Treat your child to a play, musical performance, puppet show, or magic act, either at a local venue or right at home. The excitement will turn an ordinary day into something theatrical and unforgettable.
🎁 Gift tie-in: A personalized event ticket, small prop, or program book as a keepsake.
Educational experiences for kids
When learning is hands-on and full of curiosity, it becomes an adventure. These family-friendly educational experiences blend fun with discovery, giving kids a chance to explore new ideas in a way that feels playful and engaging.
🖼️ Museum adventure
Spend the day exploring a children’s museum, science center, or local history museum where every exhibit invites hands-on learning. From interactive labs to art galleries, kids get to follow their curiosity and discover something new at every turn.
🎁 Gift tie-in: A membership pass, themed activity book, or a small souvenir from the museum gift shop.
🔬 Science discovery day
Set up a science party with simple experiments, build a baking-soda volcano, or explore nature with magnifying glasses and field journals. Kids get to make predictions, test ideas, and marvel at the magic of real-world science.
🎁 Gift tie-in: A kid-friendly science kit, magnifying glass, or beginner microscope.
Musical experiences for kids
Turn up the volume on fun with experiences that let your kid shine, groove, and make some joyful noise. Music has a way of turning any moment into a mini celebration.
🎤 Karaoke spotlight
Set up a mini stage, flip on some lights, and let your little superstar belt out their favorite songs. The applause (real or imagined) might just become their new favorite sound.
🎁 Gift tie-in: A stage-worthy sequin jacket or rhinestone microphone.
🕺Dance party
Clear an area for a dance floor, set up lights, and turn your space into a kid-friendly club. Invite friends and hire a kids DJ to crank up the energy and spark nonstop dancing.
🎁 Gift tie-in: A small instrument, dance shoes, or cool outfit.
Creative experiences for kids
For kids who love to imagine, design, and create, these hand-crafted experiences are the perfect gift and allow them to turn their ideas into colorful masterpieces.
🧑🍳 Mini-chef cooking class
Spend the day in the kitchen teaching new recipes for kid-approved dishes or sweet baked goods. Along the way, your little chef gains confidence and maybe discovers a signature specialty.
🎁 Gift tie-in: Their own chef’s hat or apron, and maybe a set of fun cookie cutters.
🎨 Arts and crafts workshop
Get hands-on with a painting party or a beginner-friendly arts class and craft workshop packed with imagination. Each project becomes a keepsake that celebrates their creativity.
🎁 Gift tie-in: A set of paints and brushes, or personalized craft materials.
The best experience gifts stick with kids and family members long after the moment has passed. Regardless of the type of special occasion or child’s personality, there is an activity or event to match. Whether you choose something active, creative, or hands-on, these experiences offer fun ways to make memories together and provide a unique gift for kids. 🤩
Make every celebration unforgettable! Book the best musicians, entertainers, and service providers on GigSalad.
Matt Holland is a Customer Happiness Agent at GigSalad. With 10+ years of experience performing as a jazz drummer, he has gained insights into the life of a gigging musician as well as what makes an event go off without a hitch. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, cooking, and watching the newest TV shows with his wife.