12 Days of Christmas Gifts: Costs and Ideas for 2024

The 12 Days of Christmas gifts tradition involves giving themed presents for each of the 12 days leading up to Christmas Day, based on the popular carol. This article explores gift ideas, costs, and modern interpretations for 2024.

Understanding the 12 Days of Christmas

The “12 Days of Christmas” refers to the period from December 25 (Christmas Day) to January 6 (Epiphany or Three Kings Day). This tradition has roots in Christian theology, marking the time between Christ’s birth and the arrival of the Magi. In modern times, many people celebrate by giving gifts on each of these 12 days.

The Traditional 12 Days of Christmas Gifts

The traditional gifts mentioned in the carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas” are:

1. A partridge in a pear tree
2. Two turtle doves
3. Three French hens
4. Four calling birds
5. Five gold rings
6. Six geese a-laying
7. Seven swans a-swimming
8. Eight maids a-milking
9. Nine ladies dancing
10. Ten lords a-leaping
11. Eleven pipers piping
12. Twelve drummers drumming

While these gifts may seem odd by today’s standards, they held symbolic meaning when the song was written. Today, people often use these themes as inspiration for modern gift-giving.

Cost of the 12 Days of Christmas Gifts in 2024

Each year, PNC Financial Services Group calculates the cost of purchasing all the gifts mentioned in the “Twelve Days of Christmas” song. This Christmas Price Index serves as a unique measure of inflation.For 2023, the total cost of all gifts reached an all-time high of $46,729.86. This figure represents a 2.7% increase from the previous year. Here’s a breakdown of the costs for each gift:

1. Partridge in a pear tree: $319.18 (up 13.9%)
2. Two turtle doves: $750.00 (up 25%)
3. Three French hens: $330.00 (up 3.5%)
4. Four calling birds: $599.96 (no change)
5. Five gold rings: $1,245.00 (no change)
6. Six geese a-laying: $780.00 (up 8.3%)
7. Seven swans a-swimming: $13,125.00 (no change)
8. Eight maids a-milking: $58.00 (no change)
9. Nine ladies dancing: $8,308.12 (no change)
10. Ten lords a-leaping: $14,539.20 (up 4%)
11. Eleven pipers piping: $3,207.38 (up 6.2%)
12. Twelve drummers drumming: $3,468.02 (up 6.2%)

It’s worth noting that if you were to buy all the gifts each time they’re repeated in the song (364 total items), the cost would soar to $210,972.66. This figure, known as the “true cost of Christmas in song,” takes into account the cumulative nature of the gifts in the carol.

Modern 12 Days of Christmas Gift Ideas

While the traditional gifts may not be practical or desirable for most people today, the 12 Days of Christmas theme can still inspire creative and thoughtful gift-giving. Here are some modern interpretations and gift ideas for each day:

Day 1: A Partridge in a Pear Tree

• A fruit tree sapling or potted plant
• Pear-scented candle or soap
• Partridge-themed ornament or decoration

Day 2: Two Turtle Doves

• Pair of dove-shaped salt and pepper shakers
• Couple’s gift set (e.g., matching mugs, robes, or slippers)
• Two tickets to a concert or show

Day 3: Three French Hens

• French cookbook or cooking class gift certificate
• Set of three French wines
• Trio of French cheeses

Day 4: Four Calling Birds

• Birdhouse or bird feeder
• Set of four bird-themed coasters or placemats
• Smartphone or other communication device

Day 5: Five Gold Rings

• Set of five gold-toned bangles or stackable rings
• Five golden Christmas ornaments
• Five-piece gold-accented dinnerware set

Day 6: Six Geese a-Laying

• Half-dozen locally sourced eggs in a decorative carton
• Six-pack of craft beer or soda
• Set of six geese-themed napkin rings

Day 7: Seven Swans a-Swimming

• Seven-piece bath and body gift set
• Swan-shaped pool float
• Seven-day spa package or gym membership

Day 8: Eight Maids a-Milking

• Eight different flavors of milk (including non-dairy options)
• Cheese-making kit
• Eight-piece set of milkshake glasses or ice cream bowls

Day 9: Nine Ladies Dancing

• Nine-month subscription to a dance or fitness class
• Set of nine different dance-themed movies
• Nine-piece makeup or skincare set

Day 10: Ten Lords a-Leaping

• Ten-day pass to a trampoline park or rock climbing gym
• Set of ten different craft beers
• Ten-piece set of jumping rope or exercise equipment

Day 11: Eleven Pipers Piping

• Eleven-piece set of kitchen utensils
• Eleven different spices or seasonings
• Gift certificate for eleven music lessons

Day 12: Twelve Drummers Drumming

• Twelve-month subscription to a music streaming service
• Set of twelve different percussion instruments
• Twelve-piece drum-shaped cookie cutter set

Tips for Creating Your Own 12 Days of Christmas Gift Tradition

If you’re interested in starting your own 12 Days of Christmas gift-giving tradition, here are some tips to make it meaningful and manageable:

1. Set a budget: Decide how much you want to spend in total and divide it among the 12 days. Remember, gifts don’t have to be expensive to be thoughtful.
2. Plan ahead: Start planning and shopping early to avoid last-minute stress.
3. Personalize the gifts: Tailor the gifts to the recipient’s interests and preferences.
4. Mix big and small: Alternate between larger, more significant gifts and smaller, token items to maintain excitement throughout the 12 days.
5. Consider experiences: Include some experiential gifts, like tickets to events or classes, alongside physical items.
6. Involve the whole family: If giving to a family, consider gifts that can be shared or enjoyed together.
7. Add a personal touch: Include handwritten notes or homemade items to make the gifts more special.
8. Create anticipation: Use creative packaging or hiding spots to make each day’s gift a surprise.
9. Spread the joy: Consider giving to those in need as part of your 12 days tradition.
10. Document the experience: Take photos or keep a journal to remember the fun of each year’s gifts.

Creative Ways to Present 12 Days of Christmas Gifts

The presentation of your gifts can add an extra layer of excitement to the 12 Days of Christmas tradition. Here are some creative ideas:

1. Advent-style calendar: Create a large calendar with 12 pockets or boxes, each containing a gift for one day.
2. Scavenger hunt: Hide each day’s gift and provide clues for the recipient to find it.
3. Themed wrapping: Use a different wrapping paper theme for each day, corresponding to the gift inside.
4. Mystery boxes: Package all gifts in identical boxes, labeled only with the day number.
5. Stocking stuffers: Use 12 small stockings to hold each day’s gift.
6. Tree ornaments: Hang each small gift as an ornament on the Christmas tree.
7. Puzzle pieces: For larger gifts, give one puzzle piece each day that forms a picture of the final gift.
8. Daily riddles: Accompany each gift with a riddle that hints at the next day’s present.
9. Time capsules: Place each gift in a container with items representing the current year.
10. Virtual gifts: For long-distance giving, send e-gift cards or digital experiences each day.

The Impact of Inflation on 12 Days of Christmas Gifts

The PNC Christmas Price Index not only provides a fun way to track the cost of the song’s gifts but also offers insights into broader economic trends. The 2.7% increase in the total cost from 2022 to 2023 reflects the overall inflation rate in the United States during that period.Some notable changes in the 2023 index include:

• The 25% increase in the cost of turtle doves, reflecting their rarity
• The 13.9% jump in the price of a partridge in a pear tree, largely due to increased pear tree costs (a proxy for housing prices)
• No change in the cost of gold rings, mirroring the stability in gold prices

These changes can guide gift-givers in making cost-effective choices when planning their 12 Days of Christmas gifts. For example, opting for more stable-priced items or finding creative alternatives to the more inflated gifts can help manage costs.

Adapting the 12 Days of Christmas for Different Budgets

While the traditional gifts in the song come with a hefty price tag, the spirit of the 12 Days of Christmas can be adapted to fit any budget. Here are some ideas for different spending levels:

Budget-Friendly Options

• Homemade gifts: Baked goods, crafts, or personalized items
• Acts of service: Offer 12 days of help or favors
• Digital gifts: E-books, online subscriptions, or virtual experiences
• Thrifted or upcycled items: Find unique, pre-loved gifts

Mid-Range Options

• Mix of store-bought and homemade gifts
• Subscription boxes spread over 12 months
• Local experiences: Restaurant gift cards, museum passes, etc.
• Quality items in smaller quantities or sizes

Luxury Options

• High-end versions of traditional gifts (e.g., designer “five gold rings”)
• Exclusive experiences: Spa days, gourmet dining, etc.
• Tech gadgets or premium home goods
• Fine jewelry or watches

Remember, the value of the 12 Days of Christmas tradition lies more in the thought and effort put into the gifts rather than their monetary worth.

Hungry Hippo Christmas Game

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When do the 12 Days of Christmas start?
   Traditionally, the 12 Days of Christmas begin on December 25 (Christmas Day) and end on January 5, the day before Epiphany.
2. Do I have to give all 12 gifts to one person?
   No, you can adapt the tradition to fit your needs. Some people give gifts to different family members or friends each day, or spread the giving over a longer period.
3. Are there alternatives to giving physical gifts for the 12 Days of Christmas?
   Yes, you can give experiences, acts of service, or even make charitable donations in the recipient’s name for each of the 12 days.
4. How can I make the 12 Days of Christmas tradition more affordable?
   Consider making homemade gifts, giving smaller items, or focusing on thoughtful gestures rather than expensive presents.
5. Can I start the 12 Days of Christmas before December 25?
   While traditionally the 12 days start on Christmas Day, many people adapt the tradition to fit their schedules, sometimes starting in early December.

Solo Cup Christmas Game

Conclusion

The 12 Days of Christmas gift tradition offers a unique and fun way to extend the joy of holiday giving. Whether you stick close to the traditional gifts from the carol or create your own modern interpretations, this custom can add excitement and anticipation to the holiday season.

By understanding the history, costs, and creative possibilities of this tradition, you can tailor it to suit your budget, preferences, and the tastes of your gift recipients. As you plan your 12 Days of Christmas gifts for 2024, remember that the most important aspect is the spirit of generosity and thoughtfulness behind each present.