GROUPON GUIDE TO CHICAGO

Christmas Last Minute Guide

BY: Editors |Oct 27, 2025

1. Candles and Mood-Setting Gifts

A high-quality candle or scent diffuser instantly transforms any space. It’s sensory, soothing, and fits nearly every personality. For elegant, small-batch options, explore Shop Standby—their soy and coconut wax candles offer clean burns and elevated scents like cedar, cardamom, and vanilla.

Quick tip:
Choose natural materials (soy or beeswax) and subtle, layered scents. Earthy or citrus notes are perfect for homebodies or colleagues; amber and sandalwood add warmth for loved ones.

2. Instant Experience Gifts

Skip shipping delays entirely with digital experience vouchers—the fastest path to a memorable gift. From spa days to fine dining, these gifts deliver instantly via email while creating lasting memories.

Explore all Groupon Christmas gifts for instant experiences available in your area, including:

  • Relaxing spa and massage treatments

  • Restaurant tastings or mixology classes

  • Tickets to theatre shows or attractions

Why it works: Experiences create emotional resonance and zero clutter—psychologically, they’re remembered longer than physical gifts.

3. Spa Gifts for Instant Relaxation

A spa gift is the ultimate last-minute gesture that still feels indulgent and personal. Whether it’s a massage, facial, or full spa day, these gifts signal care, relaxation, and balance, exactly what most people need after the holidays.

Find last-minute options near you at Groupon Spa Deals, where you can instantly purchase digital vouchers for:

  • Full-body or couples’ massages

  • Luxury spa packages

  • Facials and body treatments

  • Thermal spa or sauna passes

Pro tip: Personalize your choice to the recipient’s lifestyle—energizing treatments for active types, or stress-relief massages for anyone needing downtime.

4. Digital Subscriptions and Memberships

For gifts that last beyond December, digital subscriptions are a zero-shipping, zero-clutter solution. They’re delivered instantly and show thoughtfulness by matching your recipient’s interests.

Consider:

  • Learning platforms: MasterClass, Coursera, or creative workshops

  • Wellness apps: Fitness, meditation, or sleep trackers

  • Entertainment: Streaming, audiobooks, or niche digital magazines

These options extend the joy of gifting into the new year, keeping your present top of mind long after the holidays.

5. Gourmet Food and Drink Baskets

A gourmet basket feels festive, personal, and can be assembled in under an hour. Focus on a few high-quality items—wine or craft beer from a local shop, artisan snacks, and a touch of sweetness like chocolate or preserves.

How to make it special:

  • Choose local or small-batch producers for authenticity

  • Present it simply with a reusable tote or box

  • Add a handwritten note or digital message explaining your selections

Final Thoughts

Last-minute doesn’t mean last-quality. By focusing on speed, sentiment, and personalization, you can give a Christmas gift that feels intentional, elegant, and perfectly timed.

Explore more instant, thoughtful Christmas gifts.