12 Days of Christmas Day-by-Day Gift Guide + Free Printable Tags

The holiday season often feels like a beautiful, fleeting rush. While most people focus on a single big Christmas Day gift, the beloved tradition of the 12 days of Christmas gifts offers a chance to extend the holiday joy, build anticipation, and make the celebration even more memorable.

Whether you're looking for simple 12 days of Christmas gift ideas for adults, planning a fun countdown for your family, or trying to find inexpensive 12 days of Christmas gift ideas, this guide provides a creative, day-by-day plan to show your thoughtfulness with fun and unique presents.

Days	Traditional gift ideas	Non-traditional gift idea
Day 1	A Partridge in a Pear Tree	Cozy Blanket (fleece or knit throw) Personalized Coffee Mug and pod Festive Scented Candles (pine or gingerbread)
Day 2	Two Turtle Doves	Matching Christmas Sweaters Festive Socks and Fuzzy Slippers Two-pack of Face Masks for self-care Tickets to a Christmas concert or ballet Matching Mugs or Dove Jewelry
Day 3	Three French Hens	Trio of high-end sweets (chocolates, macarons) Artisanal snacks trio (Specialized Jerky) Luxury bath trio (Bath bombs and salts) Fancy Spices or Chicken Figurines
Day 4	Four Calling Birds	Entry-level headphones or Earbuds Cord organizers or Phone stands New Journal or Personalized Stationery New Card Games (interactive communication) Bird-themed textiles or Birdwatching gear
Day 5	Five Golden Rings	Personalized Jewelry (engraved ring/charm) Cufflinks Set Mini leather-bound photo album High-quality Fountain Pen Customized Resin Lamp
Day 6	Six Geese A-Laying	New Planner or Journal for the upcoming year Craft Supplies or Legos Geese A-Laying decorative bell
Day 7	Seven Swans A-Swimming	Deep conditioning hair treatment or massager Fancy water bottles or Bath bombs Premium beard oil or cologne sample sets Simple skincare sets for teens/friends Swan-themed decor
Day 8	Eight Maids A-Milking	Artisanal cheese or chocolate tasting kit Kindness & Service" DIY coupon book Reindeer-themed treats (cookies or cocoa kit)
Day 9	Nine Ladies Dancing	Craft beer or favorite local beverage set Bluetooth speaker or Karaoke microphone Sports-themed fun socks Dancing Ladies ceramic ornament Dance classes or Performance tickets
Day 10	Ten Lords A-Leaping	Golf balls or sports accessories (foam rollers) High-quality gym water bottle Active toys (jump rope, mini-basketball) "Leapfrog" game or Legos
Day 11	Eleven Pipers Piping	Guitar picks, sheet music, or a tuner Quality earbuds or headphones Music streaming service subscription Custom-made DIY playlistSet of champagne flute
Day 12	Twelve Drummers Drumming	Sentimental mug ("World's Best Dad/Boyfriend") High-utility apparel (premium jacket or knit) Tickets for a planned trip or experience gift 12-day Advent Calendar (as a combined gift)

The Meaning of the 12-Day Christmas Gifting Tradition

The tradition of the 12 Days of Christmas is a beautiful reflection of the extended holiday spirit. Traditionally, these twelve days mark the period from Christmas Day (December 25th) until Epiphany (January 6th).

In a modern context, however, many people adopt an Advent-style approach, starting their countdown twelve days before Christmas Eve (around December 13th). Regardless of the starting date, the core meaning remains: to celebrate the joyous season by giving meaningful gifts over an extended period.

The benefits of embracing the 12 days of Christmas ideas for family or a loved one include:

• Extends holiday joy: Instead of one day of excitement, the festivities last for nearly two weeks, keeping the Christmas spirit alive.
• Builds anticipation: Receiving a small gift each day creates an exciting daily ritual for both the giver and the recipient.
• Reduces overwhelm: Spreading your purchases over 12 smaller items can sometimes be more budget-friendly and less stressful than finding one big "perfect" present.
• Encourages mindful giving: The focus shifts from a single high-value item to a curated collection of thoughtful, often simple gifts.
• Fosters gratitude: Daily giving encourages the recipient to appreciate each small token.
• Promotes connection: This is a wonderful opportunity for couples, for kids, or for friends to share a daily moment of connection.
• Offers adaptability: The tradition allows for creativity in choosing gifts, themes, and presentation.

Ready to start? Here is your complete guide to those ideas for 12 days of Christmas gifts that go with the song, as well as modern, non-traditional takes!

The song:

Each day is inspired by a line from the famous Christmas carol, offering both traditional inspiration and contemporary, practical gift ideas for every recipient, from your husband or wife to your coworkers or neighbor gifts.

Day 1: A Partridge of in a Pear Tree

Traditional gift:

The traditional carol designates the first day of Christmas as the gift of "A Partridge in a Pear Tree." This single, beautiful gift represents something unique, valuable, and deeply personal. Drawing inspiration from this idea of one perfect item, your gift for the first day should focus on comfort, daily utility, and personal reflection, especially as we settle into the cozy winter season.

Non-traditional gift ideas:

For a single gift that provides immense comfort and is used frequently, focus on the theme of warmth:

• Cozy Blanket: A luxuriously soft fleece or knit throw is the ultimate gift of comfort. It's a cozy home essential, perfect for staying warm and cuddling up on chilly nights. 

• Coffee Mug and pod: A personalized mug paired with premium coffee or tea pods makes a thoughtful morning ritual. Customizing it with an initial or name adds a unique, personal touch.

• Scented candles: A beautifully crafted candle in festive scents like pine or gingerbread instantly transforms a home into a relaxing sanctuary. 

For more ideas on using lights and scents to create a festive mood, check out our guide on Christmas Indoor Lights Ideas.

Regardless of the gift, remember the principle of "one perfect gift." Present it beautifully in a simple box wrapped with elegant gold paper, emphasizing the quality and thoughtfulness of the single item. 

You might also engrave a special holiday message or the recipient's initials directly onto the mug or candle lid for an extra layer of personalization.

Day 2: Two Turtle Doves 

Traditional gift: 

Inspired by the "Two Turtle Doves," these gifts focus on pairs and shared moments to create a meaningful, relaxing holiday for your loved ones.

Non-traditional gift ideas:

Winter is the ideal time to give gifts that offer everyday warmth and comfort. Instead of actual doves, consider gifting two items of matching apparel:

• Matching Christmas sweaters: A fun, festive way for families to stay cozy and capture memorable holiday photos..
• Festive socks and fuzzy slippers: Practical holiday-colored essentials that offer everyday warmth and relaxation during the cold season.
• A two-pack of face masks: A thoughtful self-care gift for two, turning relaxation into a calming at-home activity.
• Tickets to a Christmas concert or ballet: A shared experience, like a concert or ballet, that prioritizes memories; choosing based on their interests shows thoughtful refinement.

• Matching Mugs: A set of two festive mugs to share warm drinks and cozy moments together.

• Dove Jewelry: A delicate necklace or matching bracelets featuring dove charms as a meaningful token of devotion.

Day 3: Three French Hens

Traditional gift: 

Drawing from the traditional carol, the "Three French Hens" represent a historical luxury, inspiring a gift theme centered on indulgence, gourmet treats, and self-pampering.

Non-traditional gift ideas:

To capture the "gourmet" essence of the French Hens, consider a trio of exquisite edible items:

• High-end sweets (chocolates, jellies): A selection of three artisanal treats, such as fine chocolates, gourmet jellies, or macarons. These small luxuries are perfect for daily use as a moment of self-indulgence or for sharing.
• Artisanal snacks trio: Among 12 days of Christmas gift ideas for him or a foodie friend, you could assemble a trio of Specialized Jerky or other Artisanal Snacks that he wouldn't typically buy for himself. This elevates a simple snack into an indulgent treat.

• Luxury bath trio: Create a set of three items designed for unwinding, such as premium Bath Bombs and exquisite Luxury Bath Salts. These are ideal for turning a regular bath into a relaxing, luxurious spa session, a thoughtful way to promote well-being during the busy holiday season. 
• Fancy Spices: A set of high-quality, exotic spices to elevate daily cooking and bring a gourmet touch to the kitchen.
• Chicken Figurines: Charming, French-inspired decor pieces that add a rustic and artistic flair to a shelf or mantel.

To ensure the gift's presentation matches its luxurious contents, prioritize elegant, tactile packaging and a personal touch. Next, nest the three indulgent items (chocolates, bath products, or gourmet snacks) inside a small, sophisticated velvet pouch, ideally in deep red, emerald green, or gold, to enhance the feeling of luxury. 

You can also complete the presentation with a handwritten note encouraging the recipient to take a well-deserved break and pamper themselves.

Day 4: Four Calling Birds

Traditional gift:

The fourth day of Christmas originally brought 'Four Colly Birds', an old English term for blackbirds (derived from 'coal'). These songbirds inspire gifts focused on audio, melody, and clear communication.

The perfect gift for this day should be practical, enhancing the recipient's ability to listen or express themselves. From high-quality headphones to vocal tools, these are functional gifts suitable for anyone looking to sharpen their “call” or enjoy the music of life.

Non-traditional gift ideas: 

If you are looking for inexpensive 12 days of Christmas gift ideas for Day 4, you don't need high-end electronics. Consider these budget-friendly options:

• Entry-level headphones or Earbuds: Practical essentials that enhance daily listening for music, podcasts, or video calls.
• Organizational accessories: Simple tools like cord organizers or phone stands that streamline your digital workspace. 

If you are decorating a work area, be sure to read our tips on Office Christmas Decoration Ideas.

“Calling” doesn't just mean digital communication; it also includes personal expression and internal dialogue.

• A new journal/notebook: A thoughtful way to encourage personal reflection, mindfulness, and internal dialogue.
• Personalized stationery: A luxurious gift for those who value the classic, personal touch of written correspondence.

As a fun alternative to tech, focus on gifts that facilitate social communication:

• New Card Games: A fun tech alternative that encourages interactive communication and laughter with loved ones.

Nature-Themed & Symbolic Gifts:

• Bird-Themed textiles: A soft blanket or throw pillow featuring bird prints provides a cozy, nature-inspired touch to any home.
• Birdwatching gear: A practical guide or quality binoculars make an ideal gift for nature lovers to enjoy the outdoors.
• Four bird mugs: A set of four beautifully designed mugs to share warm beverages with family and friends.
• Custom bird ornament: A unique keepsake featuring four birds, perfect for commemorating the holiday season.
• Four-bird jewelry: A delicate piece of jewelry featuring four bird charms as a meaningful token of connection.

To playfully link the gift back to the "Calling Birds" theme, consider using wrapping paper featuring a subtle bird motif or decorating the box with four small, decorative bird ornaments.

Day 5: Five Golden Rings 

Traditional gift:

The fifth day’s “Five Gold Rings” likely refers to birds rather than jewelry, specifically the ring-necked pheasant or the goldfinch. Keeping with this avian theme, the day represents gifts of rare beauty and lasting value. It suggests a small, precious keepsake that prioritizes personal sentiment and quality over utility.

Non-traditional gift:

Gifts for this day often fall into the category of luxury personal items, perfect for adding a personal touch:

• Small personalized jewelry item: A direct interpretation of the theme, where engraving a name or initials turns a simple ring or charm into a unique everyday item.
• Cufflinks Set: As a gift, a cufflink set is both traditional and deeply personal. When the design matches his passions, it elevates a standard accessory into a valuable keepsake.

• Mini leather-bound photo album: A sentimental souvenir filled with favorite memories, offering a heartwarming moment of reflection.

• High-quality fountain pen or executive pen: A sophisticated, high-quality writing instrument that serves as a valuable possession for daily work or journaling.

• A customized resin lamp:  Custom epoxy lamps, such as the Snowman or Nightmare Before Christmas designs, serve as one-of-a-kind statement pieces that add a personal glow to any room. 

You can find more inspiration for this unique item in our guide to Resin Christmas Ideas.

You can also get more inspiration for general festive decor and presentation from our list of Decorations for Christmas.

Day 6: Six Geese A-Laying

Traditional gift:

On the sixth day of the "Twelve Days of Christmas" carol, the classic gift is Six Geese A-Laying. This traditional symbol moves past the farmyard to represent new beginnings, development, and the spark of creation, much like the potential contained within an egg.

Non-traditional gift ideas:

When choosing a modern gift for Day 6, look for items that inspire your loved ones to grow, plan, or create.

• A new planner or journal for the upcoming year: A practical tool for "laying" future plans; adding a personal message or uplifting quote inside shows thoughtful care..
• Craft Supplies or Legos: Hands-on gifts that foster imagination and screen-free fun, perfectly capturing the "creating" aspect of the theme.
• Geese A Laying Bell: A symbolic, high-quality ornament that adds a classic touch of holiday charm to any home decor collection.

Day 7: Seven Swans A-Swimming 

Traditional gift:

On the seventh day, the carol gives us Seven Swans A-Swimming, a beautiful image symbolizing grace, elegance, and beauty. The perfect gifts for Day 7 are those related to self-care, relaxation, and personal refinement, encouraging the recipient to take a moment for themselves.

Non-Traditional gift ideas:

These self-care gifts are ideal for promoting beauty and relaxation:

• Luxurious beauty & Relaxation items: A deep conditioning treatment or small massager provides practical pampering and muscle relief during the busy holidays.
• Water-related Items: Fancy water bottles or soothing bath bombs that tie into the "swimming" aspect of the day.

• Grooming essentials: Premium beard oils or cologne sets for him offer everyday utility while reflecting a swan-like elegance.
• Simple skincare sets: Skincare is a great gift for teens and friends. A simple, gentle skincare set encourages a healthy routine and self-respect. 
• Swan-themed decor: Elegant ornaments or figurines that capture the grace and beauty of the holiday theme.
• Festive treats: Fun twists like chocolate "Schwan's" treats offer a sweet and playful way to celebrate.
• Spiritual art: Pieces representing the Holy Spirit's gifts, such as prophecy or teaching, for a more symbolic gift option.

Wrap these self-care gifts with a touch of elegance, perhaps using silver or light blue paper to reflect the water element, tied with a simple satin ribbon. This gift can be a beautiful addition to a Christmas bedroom, as detailed in our Christmas Bedroom Ideas guide.

Day 8: Eight Maids A-Milking

Traditional gift:

Beyond the literal image of dairy maids, the Eighth Day of Christmas traditionally symbolizes the Eight Beatitudes - teachings of humility and grace. In North Pole lore, this day is celebrated with 'snow milk' from Santa’s reindeer, a theme you can bring to life by placing small, thoughtful treats on a Sofa Table Decorated for Christmas to welcome your guests.

Non-traditional gift ideas:

Here are practical and thoughtful gift ideas for the theme of utility and service:

• Artisanal cheese or chocolate tasting kit: Instead of raw milk, gift a selection of gourmet cheeses (like aged Wisconsin cheddar) or milk-based truffles. This honors the "milking" theme through high-quality, consumable luxury.
• "Kindness & Service" coupon book: Directly reflecting the Beatitudes, these coupons for "taking over chores" or "a home-cooked meal" focus on the spirit of humility and helping others, rather than just "utility."
• Reindeer-Themed treats: To tie in the North Pole tradition, choose reindeer-shaped cookies or a "Reindeer Cocoa" kit. This adds a whimsical, story-driven touch to your holiday decor.

When wrapping utility gifts, choose practical and reusable packaging. Consider using a simple brown paper wrap tied with natural twine or a festive plaid ribbon to highlight the down-to-earth, useful nature of the gift.

Day 9: Nine Ladies Dancing 

Traditional gift:

On the ninth day, the lyrics brighten up with Nine Ladies Dancing, a joyful image that inspires gifts related to celebration, movement, and festive fun. Day 9 is the perfect time to give something that ignites happiness and encourages lively gatherings.

Non-traditional gift ideas:
These gift ideas are designed to bring a celebratory spirit to friends and family:

• Craft beer or a favorite local beverage: A unique drink set for hosting or relaxing; adding a bright gift tag creates an element of surprise and party excitement.
• Supplies for a family dance party or karaoke night: Gift a Bluetooth speaker or karaoke mic for an instant holiday dance-off. It’s the perfect way to get the family moving and turn Christmas night into a shared, high-energy memory.
• Sports-themed fun socks: Whimsical, practical accessories that provide an everyday item with a joyful, active twist.
• Nine Ladies Dancing Ceramic Ornament: A charming ceramic keepsake that captures the whimsical spirit of the classic carol.
• Dance Classes or Workshop: A gift of movement and learning, perfect for those who want to improve their skills or start a new hobby.
• Tickets to a Performance: A high-quality shared experience that celebrates the artistry of professional dance.
• Personalized Dance Gear: Practical, customized items that cater to the recipient's specific passion for dance or fitness.
• Nine Disco Ball Ornaments: A fun, themed decor set that brings the energy of a dance floor to the Christmas tree.

Emphasize the festive theme by using bright, eye-catching wrapping paper (like stripes or bold patterns) and a cheerful bow to match the spirit of the dancing ladies!

Day 10: Ten Lords A-Leaping 

Traditional gift:

The tenth day of the carol gives us the lively image of Ten Lords A-Leaping, which serves as inspiration for gifts that encourage physical activity, energy, and adventure. The ideal gifts for Day 10 motivate the recipient to move, stay active, and embrace a healthy lifestyle.

Non-traditional gift ideas:

Here are energetic gift ideas suitable for various recipients:

• Golf balls or other sports equipment accessories: Practical items like golf balls or foam rollers that motivate enthusiasts to stay active during the winter. 
• Gym water bottle: An essential daily-use item for fitness lovers; engraving their name or initials adds a thoughtful, custom touch.
• A small active toy (jump rope, mini-basketball): Small gifts like jump ropes or mini-basketballs that encourage kids to stay engaged and burn energy indoors..

To reflect the energy of the leaping Lords, use wrapping paper with dynamic patterns, like chevrons or geometric shapes, in athletic blues or oranges. Carry that same vibrant energy throughout your home by pairing these bold. 

Day 11: Eleven Pipers Piping

Traditional gift:

The penultimate gift in the carol is Eleven Pipers Piping, a gift that serves as the perfect inspiration for anything related to music, sound, or rhythm. These gifts are wonderful for music lovers of any age and provide enjoyment, relaxation, or tools for their musical passion.

Non-traditional gift ideas:

Here are harmonious gift ideas that match the theme of the Pipers:

• Guitar picks or sheet music: Quality guitar picks, sheet music, or a tuner provide practical support for any musician's creative process.
• A pair of quality earbuds: High-utility headphones for daily use that allow the recipient to enjoy music with superior sound quality.
• A subscription to a music streaming service: A thoughtful gift that offers endless access to favorite artists and new discoveries.
• A custom-made playlist: A highly personal, meaningful gift that curates a unique listening experience for a loved one.
• Set of champagne flutes: Elegant glassware perfect for holiday celebrations and toasting to the festive spirit.

Emphasize the sound theme by wrapping the gift in paper featuring musical notes or instrument silhouettes. You could also tie it with a silver or gold ribbon to represent the brass of the pipes. 

Day 12: Twelve Drummers Drumming

Traditional gift:

The final day of the carol delivers Twelve Drummers Drumming. As the culmination of the Twelve Days of Christmas, this gift traditionally represents the grand finale and should be the biggest, most memorable, or most exciting present of all. It’s the time to go big on impact or sentiment. This can be a perfect day to give a significant gift that requires Decorations for Christmas around the house to showcase.

Non-traditional gift ideas:

Here are memorable and impactful gift ideas for the final day:

• “World's Best Dad/Boyfriend” mug: This may be small, but it carries a massive emotional impact. It’s a daily reminder of appreciation, making it the perfect sentimental addition to their morning routine.
• High-utility apparel: Gift a high-quality piece of clothing they’ve been eyeing. Whether it’s a premium jacket or a cozy knit, it’s a practical yet stylish upgrade that shows you pay attention to their tastes.
• A ticket for a planned trip: This gift creates anticipation and provides a lasting memory rather than just a material item.

For a simple, fun final gift, you can use the contents of a 12-day Advent Calendar, splitting them up and wrapping each item individually to make the final "dozen" gifts easy to present!

Free Printable Tags for Meaningful Gifts

The perfect gift is completed with the perfect presentation. Using free printable gift tag templates adds a charming, rustic, or modern touch to your gifts while clearly labeling which day the gift should be opened.

Look for Christmas printable tags that feature Christmas sayings, a classic pear tree image, or a simple numbering system (Day 1 through Day 12).

You can download free printable tags from these sources:

https://www.aubreeoriginals.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12-Days-of-Christmas-full.pdf 

https://www.cassiesmallwood.com/printable-christmas-tags/ 

https://www.printablee.com/post_12-days-of-christmas-tags-free-printable_244900/ 

Conclusion

The 12 Days of Christmas gifting tradition offers a unique and memorable way to celebrate the holiday season. By embracing the spirit of the song and adapting the themes to modern, practical, and personal gifts, you can transform the rush of the holidays into a joyous, extended celebration. Whether you choose funny 12 days of Christmas gift ideas or deeply sentimental ones, the daily ritual shows a level of thoughtfulness that makes the experience special for him, for her, and everyone in between.

FAQs

How to Choose the Perfect 12-Day Christmas Gift Set?

Choosing the right gifts is all about making the collection feel cohesive and personal.

• Consider the recipient’s core interests and hobbies: Is it a self-care enthusiast? A foodie? A tech lover? Tailor the small gifts to their passions.
• Pick a consistent theme: A "Cozy Winter," "Culinary Adventure," or "At-Home Spa" theme can connect all 12 gifts, making the set feel more intentional.
• Set a clear, realistic budget: This helps you balance the "big" gifts (Day 5 or 12) with the smaller, inexpensive items.
• Mix big gifts with small, fun items: Variety builds anticipation. A $5 joke gift on Day 9 followed by a personalized item on Day 10 is more exciting than 12 mid-range gifts.
• Personalize the packaging: Use festive colors like red and gold, and utilize your free printable Day 1-12 tags.

Do I have to follow the gifts from the original 12 Days of Christmas song?

Absolutely not! While using the song for inspiration is fun and helps generate theme ideas, the modern tradition is about thoughtful, daily giving. Our guide above shows how you can link the meaning (e.g., "Two Turtle Doves" = a pair/connection) to a practical gift (e.g., matching slippers) instead of trying to find actual turtle doves.

Are there any good "12 Days of Christmas" theme ideas for adults?

Yes! Great themes for adults include:

• 12 Days of Coffee/Tea: A new mug, different coffee roasts, creamer, a small French press, a coffee-themed candle, etc.
• 12 Days of Happy Hour: Craft beer, small wine bottles, gourmet bar snacks, a cocktail shaker, a funny beer opener.
• 12 Days of Self-Care: Bath bombs, a face roller, new pajamas, aromatherapy oils, a book.

Should I wrap all 12 gifts separately, or put them in one big container?

Wrap each gift separately and clearly mark them with a Christmas tag that indicates the day (1 through 12). You can then:

• Place them all under the tree to be opened on the corresponding day.
• Hang them on a wall or mantle like an Advent calendar.
• Hide the gifts around the home or classroom for a daily mini-scavenger hunt.

Where can I find free printable tags to use with my gifts? 

You can find a variety of free printable 12 Days of Christmas gift tags on several blogs and creative resource websites.

These printable files typically come as a PDF or PNG and are ready to be downloaded, printed on cardstock, cut out, and tied onto your gifts.