Neighbor gifts
Neighbor gifts that are friendly, not fussy
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Ghirardelli premium hot cocoa envelopes
A box of cocoa packets is a simple host gift.
Check price on AmazonA neighbor gift should be small, shareable and easy to accept: cocoa, shortbread, tea, jam, popcorn or a candle with a handwritten card. Avoid anything that creates an obligation, and deliver it in a bag that does not need to be returned.
At a glance
A neighbor gift is about being friendly, not about competing. It should be quick to hand over at the door, easy to share with a household and free of any expectation of a return gift.
Prices move daily, so check the live price on Amazon before you buy.
How to choose
- Pick something that suits any household. Cocoa, tea and shortbread work for families, singles and older neighbors.
- Mind allergies. Choose sealed, labelled foods, and avoid nuts if you do not know.
- Add a card. A short note with your name and house number tells them who it is from.
- Deliver in daylight with a simple bag and a tag.
Buying in multiples saves money and time. A box of cocoa packets or a tin of shortbread can be divided into several bags. For neighbors who moved away, how to mail cookies and food gifts has the packing steps.
All the picks
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Ghirardelli premium hot cocoa envelopesOur pick
A box of cocoa packets is a simple host gift.
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Walker's shortbread Scottie dog cookies
A tin of Scottish shortbread is a classic holiday gift.
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Bonne Maman assorted preserves
A set of preserves is a breakfast gift.
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Garrett Popcorn Chicago classic cheddar and caramel mix
A bag of gourmet popcorn is a treat that a host can share.
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Swiss Miss milk chocolate hot cocoa mix canister
A big canister of cocoa mix is a no-risk gift for a house with children.
- Look for:
- A canister that is sealed and fresh with an expiry date.
- Best for:
- Families and offices.
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Ghirardelli peppermint bark squares
Peppermint bark squares are a holiday treat.
- Best for:
- Chocolate lovers.
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Twinings Holiday variety pack tea bags
A holiday tea sampler gives a hot drink for each night and is a safe gift for a tea drinker.
- Look for:
- A variety pack with caffeine-free options.
- Best for:
- Teachers, neighbors and coworkers.
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Twinings Tea Classics collection gift box
A box of classic teas gives variety and works for a gift for most households.
- Best for:
- Tea drinkers.
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Taylors of Harrogate assorted tea sampler
A tea sampler is a safe gift.
- Best for:
- Tea drinkers.
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Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day soy candle, Lavender
A small, nicely scented soy candle is a safe, thoughtful small gift.
- Look for:
- A lid and a scent you know the person likes.
- Best for:
- Hosts, teachers and neighbors.
- Skip:
- if they dislike lavender; choose a different scent.
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IndianShelf retro glass Christmas ornaments, 25
A set of glass ornaments is a gift for a tree.
- Best for:
- Tree decorators.
- Skip:
- for homes with pets who break things.
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Candy cane peppermint stirring spoons, 12-set
Peppermint spoons turn a mug of hot chocolate into a small treat and are easy to tuck into a card.
- Look for:
- Individually wrapped spoons and a seal.
- Best for:
- Cocoa fans and gift-basket builders.
What to skip
- Home-baked goods for neighbors you do not know. Many people avoid them for allergy and safety reasons.
- Alcohol.
- Gifts that look expensive. They can make people feel they should respond.
- Pet treats unless you know they have a pet.
For other situations, see Christmas host gifts and gifts under $15. For packaging, our gift wrapping supplies guide helps.
Questions people ask
What is a good gift for neighbors?
Something small and shareable: cocoa, tea, shortbread or a candle with a note. Choose sealed, labelled foods and avoid anything that needs refrigeration.
How much should I spend on neighbor gifts?
A small gift is plenty. The aim is friendliness, so a modest treat with a handwritten card is better than an expensive item that creates pressure.
Do I need to give every neighbor a gift?
No. Give to the neighbors you know best or who have helped you, and include a card with a general holiday wish for the rest if you like.
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