Give the Gift of Experience

I read recently that people who spend their money on experiences are happier than people who spend their money on material goods. That's one reason I'm giving lots of tickets as holiday gifts this year. Tickets to theater, performing arts and sports events can be great gifts - they're fun surprises, and they can never be the wrong size or the wrong color. Just make sure you ask a few nosy questions or drop a few hints to the intended recipients of your ticket gifts to make sure they're going to be free at the time of the event.

Since Christmas is only a few days away, you'll need to pick up tickets in person, or just give the recipient a card letting him or her know that the tickets will be at will call. I often pick up theater, arts and sporting event tickets in person anyway, just to avoid those outrageous "convenience fees" you have to pay when buying them online.