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Holiday Wishlist Ideas for Everyone: From Athletes to Artists, and Everyone in Between!

The holidays are right around the corner, and you know what that means—it’s time to start thinking about your wishlist! Whether you’re hoping for something practical or fun, we’ve got ideas for everyone at Apex High School. Everyone struggles with finding the perfect gift for their boyfriend or girlfriend, or maybe their friends. From athletes and band members to artists and gamers, here’s your go-to guide for the ultimate holiday gifts for every kind of person. 

Athletes:

If you’re gifting for or are the type who spends more time on the field or court than anywhere else, here are some top holiday wishlist ideas:

  1. New Gear
    Every athlete can’t get enough of their favorite gear. Gloves, pants for uniforms, cheaper and less specific options could be athletic socks, KT tape and numbing spray for common injuries.

  2. Hydration
    Hydration is key! A cool, personalized water bottle in style right now is the Owala. They are sturdy and come in multiple colorways for any kind of person. You could also get them some drink packets for electrolytes like Liquid IV, that comes in many different flavors.
  3. Massage Gun
     After all those tough workouts, a massage gun can help relax sore muscles and keep you feeling like a pro athlete. Many athletes I interviewed and spoke to had this high on their list of wants this holiday season.

For the Music Lovers & Band Geeks 

Whether you’re in band or just love music, here are some perfect gift ideas to help you hit the right note this holiday season:

  1. New Instrument Accessories
     Need a new mouthpiece for your trumpet or a fresh set of guitar strings? Upgrading your instrument accessories can make a huge difference in your sound.
  2. Music-Themed Apparel
     From band t-shirts to hoodie designs inspired by your favorite artists, musical apparel is always a hit. There is a plethora of band t-shirts at the thrift store Uptown Cheapskate in Apex, a popular spot for teenage fashionistas.

  3. CD or Record Players
    A more expensive choice, but a CD or Record player would be a key part of yours or someone else’s room. It allows for the fun opportunity of collecting CDs or vinyls.

For the Creative Minds 

For all the art students and creatives who see the world a little differently, here are some gifts that are sure to inspire:

  1. Sketchbooks
     If you love to draw, a high-quality sketchbook or a canvas set could be just what you need to start your next masterpiece. It is hard to find a sketchbook with lots of high quality paper for a good price, so receiving one as a gift would be fantastic!
  2. Art Supplies
     A set of premium markers, pencils, or watercolors can take your creations to the next level. Bonus points if you ask for a specialized tool you’ve been eyeing! Popular items right now are POSCA paint markers and alcohol-based marker sets, known for vibrant colors and versatile uses.
  3. Portfolio Folder
    As many artists are getting into high school, they might need to start keeping track of a portfolio for college or competitions. Interviewing Mr. Ferguson’s Intermediate Drawing Class, the number one issue most artists have is not having a place to keep all their art they aren’t displaying.

For the Gamer 

If you live and breathe gaming, these wishlist items are guaranteed to level up your experience:

  1. New Gaming Console or Accessories
     Whether you’re looking for the latest Xbox, PlayStation, or Switch, a new console or accessories like wireless controllers, headsets, or even a gaming chair can enhance your gaming setup. The holiday season is the perfect time of year to get on this, because prices drop and sales come out.
  2. Gift Cards
     Sometimes the best gift is the freedom to choose! A PlayStation Store, Steam, or Xbox gift card lets you pick up the newest game or in-game content you’ve been eyeing. This makes it easier for the gamer in your life to purchase the games they want without you having to guess what they’d like.
  3. LED Gaming Lights
     Add some cool ambiance to your gaming space with LED lights. These lights can change colors and be synced with your game for a more immersive experience. Having a setup with LED features are in style right now, creating a nice environment for gaming.
  4. Merch from Favorite Games
    People love to represent their interests, if you or someone you know are passionate about a game, it wouldn’t hurt to look into their official merchandising sites to find the right fit for them. You could get shirts, hoodies, pins, keychains and more!

For the Bookworms 

In 2024, I’ve seen a massive increase in students picking up reading as a hobby. Reading is a perfect way to unwind, and if you’re someone who always has a book in hand, here are a few ideas that’ll make your holiday reading season even better:

  1. Books
     Of course, books are the number one choice! Ask for that latest best-seller or a classic you’ve been wanting to read. If you’re gift-giving for someone else, pay attention to the genres they like, or maybe ask if they have a favorite author.
  2. Reading Light
     A portable reading light will make it easier to read under the covers or on the go—perfect for those late-night reading sessions. Reading lights are seriously underrated for those who are dedicated readers.
  3. Audible Subscription
    A gift card or a voucher for an Audible subscription would be a delight for any dedicated reader. Being able to engage in a story when they aren’t able to actively hold a book, such as in a car or while relaxing in bed, is very convenient for readers.
  4. Highlighters and Sticky Notes
    I’ve seen a growing trend in those who read as a hobby keeping notes inside their books alongside small sticky notes to mark their favorite pages and quotes. Finding a cute pack of highlighters and colored sticky notes would be sure to make any reader’s day!

For the Fashionistas 

If you’ve got style for days, your holiday wishlist might look like this:

  1. Trendy Clothes
     Whether it’s a sweater from your favorite store or the perfect pair of jeans, fashion gifts are always appreciated. Most of the time, the fashion lovers in your life will vocalize what they are wanting for.
  2. Jewelry & Accessories
     A new set of earrings, a sleek watch, or a simple pair of socks can help complete any outfit. Be sure to look into personal style to find a piece that can be paired with many outfits.
  3. Sneakers
    Trendy sneakers are a must-have for any fashion lover. Right now we are seeing a lot of New Balances, Adidas Sambas and OnCloud sneakers, known for their fashionable and comfortable design.
  4. Gift Cards to Your Favorite Store
    When in doubt, gift cards to places like Forever 21, Urban Outfitters, or H&M will give your friends the chance to pick out exactly what they want.

General Gift Ideas

It’s okay to not fall into a clique, here are some general gift ideas that anyone would be pleased to have! I asked Apex High School students for the top item on their christmas lists. 

  1. Car Accessories
    High School is the time when people are getting their licenses and driving. You need to personalize your car! Apex High School senior, Erik Studer, says that he wants a dash cam for his vehicle.
  2. Comfortable clothing
    Dressing comfortably in school is a staple right now, so loungewear is to be desired by any high school student in your life. Apex High School senior, Maggie Austin, says that shes asking for sweatpants. 
  3. Makeup
    Wearing makeup helps a lot of people complete their everyday looks, but it can be expensive. Look into some name brands right now and pick out the perfect product. Apex High School Sophomore, Molly Rogers, says that she is asking for “any makeup or skincare.”
  4. Shoes
    I know I mentioned sneakers earlier, and I think it could be a good general gift for anyone. Even shoes, like slippers or boots, would make a great gift for your loved ones. Apex High School Junior, Kendall Wolf says that she is asking for “new shoes for the school year”.

Wrapping It Up 🎁🎄

No matter what your interests are, there’s a perfect holiday gift waiting for you! From sporty gear to creative supplies, tech gadgets to bookish finds, there’s no shortage of ideas to make this holiday season extra special. So start dropping those hints and get ready for some festive fun—you deserve it!

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