25 New Year’s Eve Gifts Under $25 for Hosts and Friends

A fast, active card game for a friend who enjoys boisterous group play. The maker lists ages 6+ and 3–8 players. Physical movement and noise make it unsuitable for some gatherings; do not assume the host wants to start a game during the party.

Best for: a friend who enjoys active group games

A broad tool for a baker who transfers cookies, cake layers, or shaped bread. Confirm drawer space and whether the recipient already has a similar tool.

Best for: a baker who moves cookies or cake layers

A puzzle for a friend who likes astronomy-themed art and quiet indoor activities. It needs time and a flat work surface; the stars and zodiac illustration is a design, not an astronomy lesson.

Best for: a puzzler who likes astronomy-themed art

An ingredient for someone who already bakes with cocoa, not an instant drink mix. Read the chosen recipe's leavening requirements and package ingredient/allergen information.

Best for: a baker who uses cocoa in recipes

A guided journal offers 52 list prompts for someone who enjoys reflecting on the past year and thinking about the next.

Best for: a friend who enjoys guided journaling

For a friend who enjoys making lists. A small stationery gesture, not a substantial present.

Best for: a friend who enjoys keeping to-do lists

This tin of Earl Grey Supreme gives a tea lover a comforting drink to enjoy during a quiet start to the new year.

Best for: someone who enjoys fragrant black tea

Players write two-word clues and try to guess each other’s answers in this quick party game, a lively option for a New Year gathering.

Best for: friends who enjoy word games

A deck with dog illustrations for a card-playing friend. Confirm that the recipient enjoys the artwork and card games.

Best for: a dog lover who enjoys card games

A paper mountain scene unfolds with skiers and a lodge when this card is opened. Add a handwritten New Year message for a friend who loves winter sports.

Best for: a friend who enjoys skiing or winter trips

A baking activity to share with a friend. Check the complete ingredients, cross-contact information, and added ingredients required; do not assume suitability for a particular medical diet.

Best for: a friend who enjoys baking cookies

This bookstore scene is a cozy indoor activity for a reader who likes a relaxed puzzle over the holiday break.

Best for: a book lover who enjoys jigsaws

This compact dated planner gives someone who likes writing things down a fresh calendar for appointments and plans in 2027.

Best for: a friend who uses a paper planner

An illustrated book celebrating friendship, suitable for a reader who enjoys sentimental gifts. Its sentimental tone may not suit a friend who prefers practical gifts.

Best for: a friend who enjoys sentimental illustrated books

A fill-in booklet for celebrating a close friend. Personalization requires time and may not appeal to everyone.

Best for: a friend who would appreciate a personalized keepsake

Prompted letters for sharing memories and future plans. Consider whether the recipient would value a written keepsake.

Best for: a friend who values handwritten memories

This compact trivia game gives friends or family 50 prompts to discuss around the table as they ring in the new year.

Best for: a group that enjoys playful trivia

A 14-ounce mug decorated with famous literary openings is a practical gift for someone who loves books and a warm drink.

Best for: a reader who enjoys novelty mugs

A self-watering basil growing kit gives a recipient a small indoor gardening project for the months ahead.

Best for: a cook or beginner gardener with a bright indoor spot

Three illustrated notebooks offer a fresh place to jot down ideas, plans, or reading notes in the year ahead.

Best for: a friend who enjoys keeping notebooks

A set for a friend who enjoys sending notes. Check the designs and whether stationery will be used.

Best for: a friend who enjoys sending handwritten notes

This recipe book gives a dessert lover ideas for making ice cream and treats to share during the new year.

Best for: someone who enjoys making desserts at home

This insulated stemless cup with a lid keeps a favorite drink handy at a New Year gathering or a quiet evening at home.

Best for: a friend who enjoys hot or cold drinks

These bear-paw oven mitts bring a playful touch to cooking and make a useful gift for a friend who likes baking.

Best for: a home cook who enjoys playful kitchen gear

This sloth-shaped infuser hangs from a mug and adds a playful detail to a tea lover’s quiet winter routine.

Best for: someone who drinks loose-leaf tea