Birthday
HydrangeasWinter holidays in Ukraine bring a whole series of gift-giving occasions: St Nicholas Day on 6 December, Christmas on 25 December and New Year. Here are New Year gift ideas for family, colleagues and friends, festive flowers and plants, handmade gifts and tips for keeping gift shopping stress-free.
Festive bouquets and plants are in our flower baskets and potted plants sections.
When to give gifts
- 6 December — St Nicholas Day. Traditionally children find presents under their pillows.
- 25 December — Christmas. A family celebration: gifts for loved ones and flowers for your hosts. More in "Christmas in Ukraine".
- 31 December — 1 January — New Year. The most popular occasion for gifts to friends and colleagues.
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Ideas by recipient
Festive flowers and plants
- Poinsettia — the "Christmas star" with bright bracts. Care tips in "Poinsettia care".
- Amaryllis and hippeastrum — large flowers on tall stems that open in time for the holidays.
- Winter bouquets with fir, ilex berries, cotton and cones. How to protect them from frost is covered in "Flowers in winter".
- A New Year topiary — buy one or make your own: step-by-step guide.
Handmade gifts
- Gingerbread biscuits in a pretty box.
- Scented candles or lavender sachets.
- A jar of New Year wishes for every day of January.
- A card or calendar with family photos.
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Gifts for any budget
- Inexpensive — a card, sweets, a mini plant, a candle.
- Mid-range — a winter bouquet, a book, a board game, a blanket.
- Something special — an experience: a trip, a concert, a workshop, a spa day.
Wrapping and delivery
Festive wrapping is part of the gift: kraft paper, fir, cones and red ribbons set the mood. Ideas in "How to wrap a gift beautifully". If you are far from your loved ones, order flower and gift delivery in advance: demand is especially high before the holidays.
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How to keep gift shopping stress-free
- Make a list of recipients and a budget at the start of December.
- Agree on a Secret Santa with colleagues with a fixed amount.
- Shop early — the choice shrinks closer to the holidays.
FAQ
What is an inexpensive New Year gift?
A card, sweets, a mini plant, a candle or something handmade.
Which flowers are given for New Year?
Poinsettias, amaryllis, winter bouquets with fir and berries, and New Year topiaries.
When is St Nicholas Day?
In Ukraine, on 6 December.
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Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
