For a more personal touch, gift baskets for special occasions are a meaningful way to compliment a holiday table, a birthday bash, or even given as a housewarming gift. Finding the perfect special occasion gift is easy! We've rounded up the best gift baskets that are sure to delight all the sweet tooths and savory snackers you're shopping for. With a wide variety of factors to consider for your recipient, this gift guide will break down indulgences certain to be well received by those on your shopping list. Each chapter within this gift guide of special occasion gifts will take the guesswork out of finding pairings to suit your recipient. With expertly-paired flavor and fun ideas, you'll be able to find the perfect gift no matter what you're celebrating.

What is a Special Occasion?

A special occasion is simply an important day or event established by a particular circumstance or occurrence. Special occasions can include birthdays, graduations, weddings, and more. The tradition behind gift-giving is truly fascinating since it has been a part of cultures and societies since prehistoric times. Through the years, new meanings and occasions have emerged to express recognition from one to another thoughtfully.

The Importance of Gift Giving

As customs have evolved through the ages, special occasion gifts were the go-to symbols of allegiance or even reconciliation. In Roman times, gift-giving was about sharing good luck tokens. The Egyptian era proved gift-giving could extend to the afterlife with previous pharaohs being buried with their riches and received continued gratitude from their family and admirers. While these may be outdated rituals today, here’s a quick look at some of the most famous gifts given in history:

The Most Famous Gift in History: You may already know the Statue of Liberty, but did you know it was gifted by France in 1885? What a gift to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The Most Expensive Gift in History: The love of the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, shows through for his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, in the Taj Mahal. The construction of the mausoleum took a variety of some 20,000 artisans incorporated in its build.

A Rare Gift Given in History: Not like the white elephant party game, King Manuel I of Portugal gifted Pope Leo X a white elephant which was a rarity, sacred, and thought to bear good fortune in this time. King Manuel I did this to celebrate Pope Leo X’s coronation. Leo was so pleased he commissioned Italian Renaissance artist, Raphael, to paint his portrait in return.

When giving a gift, it's important to match the overall tone of the celebration and express thoughtfulness and heartfelt feelings to your recipient. Considering your recipient's interests and personality will help alleviate stress and anxiety surrounding picking a gift that fits them.

Don’t be afraid to be unique but remember other little things they like such as hobbies and their favorite color to guide you to the perfect gift. No matter the relationship, gifting for any occasion can be what strengthens ties with the people you hold dear to you and enhance the ongoing tradition of gift-giving.

Special Occasions Gift Ideas
CHAPTER 1
Birthday
CHAPTER 2
Thank You
CHAPTER 3
Anniversary
CHAPTER 4
Weddings &
Engagements
CHAPTER 5
Thinking of You
CHAPTER 6
Care Packages
CHAPTER 7
Housewarming
CHAPTER 8
Game Day
CHAPTER 9
Picnics
CHAPTER 10
Date Night

How to Select a Great Gift for Anyone and for Any Occasion

Gift-giving doesn’t have to be a challenge, and we have a stress-free way to help. You’ll be on the road to being a gift-giving expert if you follow our tips when considering a thoughtful gift to fit anyone and any occasion.

Here are some of the top occasions we’ve broken down so you don’t miss the tone of approach when gifting for the moment. Be thoughtful, courteous, and spread cheer using one of our categories for best gift baskets for special occasions:

  • Birthdays: Narrow down the perfect gift to celebrate life
  • Thank you: To practice gratitude and show appreciation to family, friends, and even strangers
  • Anniversary: Celebrate milestones with a touching gift that amplifies reflection of such a precious moment.
  • Wedding & Engagement: Give a gift of sentimental value with meaning that will last throughout the years.
  • Thinking of You: Simple yet meaningful can be the most thoughtful way to show care to others.
  • Care Packages: A little special reminder to bring comfort.
  • Housewarming: Plan a gift sure to get you welcomed back.
  • Game Day: Overload with game day favorites for a win-win to score big with family and friends.
  • Picnic: Take your outdoor activities to the next level with an unforgettable experience.
  • Date Night: Get excited about time spent from heart to heart.

You won’t find items just anywhere, but when you find the right gift, you’ll know. Your search will inspire you to branch out, and this guide of gift baskets for special occasions we have curated will aid in finding a great gift. Enjoy the gift-giving experience and allow Hickory Farms to be a helping hand along the way.

 

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