Christmas Present

The tradition of giving presents during the winter season extends back to ancient Rome. People would give gifts to the emperor during this during the festival of Kalends. Gift giving later became associated with the Christian holiday of Christmas, which celebrates the birth of Christ. The Biblical account of Christ's birth includes three wise men who gave gifts to the baby Jesus.

Modern Gift Giving

In modern times, gift giving is still a tradition many countries follow. People give gifts to show love, respect, and appreciation. Giving presents has also come to be associated with generosity and in some ways one's class status.

Etiquette also plays a part in modern gift giving. People are often expected to reciprocate when a gift is given to them. Giving small gifts to neighbors, teachers, and coworkers is also common in addition to gifts for family and friends.

Present Ideas

Stumped for a good Christmas present idea? Here are a few tried and true standbys to help make your Christmas gift giving easier.

For Women

Mothers, grandmothers, wives, aunts -- there are a variety of gifts that work well for almost any woman. The following presents never go out of style:

• Sleepwear such as pajamas, robes, or slippers.
• Chocolate
• Jewelry
• Watch
• Candles
• Bath and body gift baskets with lotion, shower gel, or scented soaps
• Flowers
• Bottle of wine
• Photo albums or picture frames
• Calendar, organizer, or planner
• Winter accessories such as leather gloves or a scarf
• Stylish tote bag
• Mugs, coffee, or tea gift basket
• Perfume

For Men

There are several Christmas present standbys that are appropriate for many guys, including:

• Wallet
• Cologne
• Shaving or travel kit
• Robe or lounge wear
• Tools
• Car accessories
• Pocketknife
• Grill or grill accessories
• Wine or liquor
• Sports paraphernalia
• Briefcase or portfolio bag

For Children

A Christmas present for a child can sometimes be difficult, especially with the constant introduction of new toys. You can choose from classic items to the latest electronic toys. For example:

• Board games or computer games
• Video game systems or games
• Arts and crafts supplies
• Stuffed animals
• Videos or DVDs
• Electronic toys such as remote control cars or planes
• Candy
• Roller skates
• Books
• Pajamas or slippers
• Blocks, building sets, or models
• Musical instruments
• Action figures or dolls
• Pretend play items such as costumes, dress up clothes, tool sets, or kitchen sets
• Sports items

For Teens

Teens can often be difficult to buy for, but here are a few ideas for practically fool-proof teen presents:

• CD's or DVD's (find out what they like)
• Movie or concert tickets
• Room décor or accessories
• Journals or memo pads
• Computer or video games
• MP3 players or iPods
• Watches
• Cordless phone or cell phone (get parents' approval first)
• Gym bags or backpacks
• Camera
• Sports items

Gift Certificates, Tickets, and Subscriptions

Gift Certificates

Gift certificates are a great choice for a Christmas present. They eliminate the hassle of looking for the perfect present and the recipient is sure to purchase a wanted item. The ease of giving this universal gift is tremendous -- you can buy gift cards or certificates online, at mall service centers, and specific stores. A gift certificate for a site like Amazon or Overstock.com offers the perfect gift for anyone.

Many grocery stores now carry a number of gift cards for other retailers, so you can get your entire Christmas list crossed off while shopping for your groceries! Almost every retail establishment now offers gift cards or certificates. Hair salons, spas, home improvement stores, toy stores, bath and body stores, and restaurants are just a few of the possibilities.

Tickets

Tickets are also a great Christmas present idea. Not only are you giving the recipient or recipients a fun time, but you are saving them from any potential returns. Tickets can be purchsed for concerts, movies, sporting events, seminars or retreats, and antique shows.

Subscriptions

Subscription presents are gifts that keep on giving throughout the year. Magazine subscriptions are a good gift idea. A monthly club such as wine, cheese, coffee, flowers, chocolates, or books is sure to please even the pickiest person on your Christmas list.

Homemade Presents for Christmas

For many people, Christmas is a nostalgic time reminiscent of simpler days. Homemade gifts are often the most treasured, whether a plate of home baked cookies or a hand knitted scarf.

If you'd like to give a homemade gift, but aren't very crafty or great in the kitchen, there are dozens of simple recipes for presents that take little time and no extraordinary skill. Gifts in a jar such as cookie or brownie mixes are easy and quick. Decorated tote bags or gardening gloves add a personal touch -- you can find stencils and patterns at most craft stores. Add a tag or Christmas card and you're set!

You can also put together kits or gift baskets with little effort. A couple boxes of specialty pasta, a nice sauce, and a mini bottle of olive oil make an easy pasta basket. Put together a variety of craft supplies for a child's craft kit. For the man in your life, put together a basket of his favorite snacks and wrap up a throw with his favorite sports team logo on it for the next big game.

The possibilities are endless, but the giving of the Christmas present is what's worth the most.