Monday December 4, 2023

10 Local Experiential Gifts for Hard-to-Buy-For Loved Ones

  1. Split Tree Cocktail Co. 2024 workshops include ingredients, instruction and good times as you learn how to make Tiki and modern cocktails or drinks for special occasions like Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day.
     
  2. Digital Photography 1: Foundation from SPAO is a series of 10 Sunday classes from January to March, which cover the operation of your camera, to lighting and composition. You’ll also learn about basic file management.
     
  3. Learn how to make three cocktail syrups at Bee Savvy’s Dry January Simple Syrups workshop. Saturday January 6, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.
     
  4. Give a gift certificate to one of the City of Ottawa’s recreation programs.
     
  5. The Orléans Brewing Company 2024 OBC Club Membership is on sale for $120 right now, and it offers discounts on taproom pours, cans to go, cases, swag, access to event presales, and more.
     
  6. Make a Wood Hockey Stick with the Ottawa City Woodshop. January 4, 11, 18, and 25. Or craft your own traditional Five Board Bench, or simply learn the fundamentals of wood working.
     
  7. The Whiprsnapr Troublemaker One Year Membership runs from January to December, and includes perks like 15% off all draft and cans to go, snacks, keg purchases, and swag. You also get your own special night at the brewery.
     
  8. Don't forget self-care gifts: Kōena Spa - Thermal Experience has gift certificates for those who need a little taking care of. 
     
  9. Tickets to the Sausage Making Workshops by Valley Sausage Co, at Stray Dog Brewing in Orléans on Tuesday January 24, 2024 include everything you need to make your own artisanal sausages (you’ll get to bring home 4lbs), plus one beer from the host venue.
     
  10. Cooking courses at Maitland Manor, a grand house on the St. Lawrence River combine learning something new with feeling like the Lord or Lady of the manor. Not sure which course to book? Buy a gift certificate and let the recipient choose.

Become an Ottawa insider

Get the morning briefing that keeps you updated on city news, the latest restaurants, what to do and when. Fun and for free.