(RNS) — It’s that time of year — when holidays, including Christmas, Hanukkah, Yule and Kwanzaa, converge in one month of festive merrymaking — and gift giving.
And whether the folks on your list are religious, spiritual or nothing at all, RNS has you covered. Each year we religion nerds gather a list of our favorite quirky, rare and sentimental items. From ironic atheism sweatshirts to Jubilee 2025 merch, zodiac glassware and a kid-friendly dinosaur-shaped hanukkiyah, there’s truly something for everyone on this list. So unwind, cozy up and peruse away!
Dino hanukkiyah
Rabbi Yael Buechler typically goes viral on TikTok for pointing out Hanukkah “fails,” but she gave Target a shoutout for what she called its “Menorosaurus Rex” hanukkiyah. Featuring space for up to nine candles (including a spot for the shamash, or helper candle), the blue dino candle holder adds playfulness to your Hanukkah celebration.
Illustrated ‘Modern Saints’ book
Filled with illustrations from Catholic artist Gracie Morbitzer and ruminations from theologians such as James Martin and Christena Cleveland, “The Modern Saints: Portraits and Reflections on the Saints,” featuring vibrant, modernized paintings of 52 saints, is the perfect collectable for art and icon lovers.
‘The Chosen’ Season 4 DVD
After months of delays, the latest season of the hit show about Jesus’ life is available on Blu-ray and DVD. As physical media begins a timid comeback, now is the perfect time to gift the Chosen fan in your life a hard copy of all eight Season 4 episodes.
‘Original Non-Prophet’ atheism sweatshirt
This quirky sweatshirt is a great find for your nonreligious pals. Featuring a festive atheism snow globe and a prophet pun, this item from Etsy seller DismantleThreads also comes in sizes XS – 5XL.
Jubilee 2025 Pilgrim’s Backpack
Is someone you know planning a pilgrimage to the Vatican for Jubilee 2025? This modern satchel, which includes a laptop compartment, pilgrim-shaped zipper and the official Jubilee logo, could be just the item they need for their journey.
Eighth Generation upcycled wool stocking
These one-of-a-kind upcycled wool stockings from Seattle-based Indigenous retailer Eighth Generation are made of textiles that would have otherwise ended up in a landfill. Made of slightly damaged blankets with a woven design of Raven the Creator by Tlingit artist Richard Dalton III, the stockings are festive and, as the site indicates, good for Mother Earth.
Hanukkah nail decals
This nail decal set for adults and children is from a Jewish-owned small business and includes images of dreidels, Judah Maccabee and latkes. The 49 decals are designed to upgrade any manicure and to last up to eight days.
Child is Born embroidery hoop
This fair-trade, handmade 9-inch embroidery hoop includes a delicately stitched depiction of the holy family beneath an excerpt from Isaiah 9:6. From a local shop in Lynchburg, Virginia, that sells products made by refugees, people transitioning out of homelessness, disabled folks and human trafficking survivors, the purchase of this item supports communities in Thailand.
‘Elle the Humanist’ children’s book
For the nonreligious kiddos in your life, “Elle the Humanist” is a children’s book written by 11-year-old Elle Harris that emphasizes the value of science, reason and wonder. An introduction to humanism told with bright illustrations, the book is available autographed and comes with a free signed bookmark.
Principles of Kwanzaa sweatshirt
Faith is one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa and is displayed as part of this festive sweatshirt from Etsy seller MelantedMagic. Available in a range of colors, this sweatshirt will keep your loved one cozy when Kwanzaa starts on Dec. 26.
Hope Coffee Shiloh Roast
Hope Coffee company is a Christian-owned ministry that purchases coffee directly from farmers in Honduras and Mexico, paying the farmers higher-than-average wages and then putting 100% of the after-tax profits toward service projects and missionary efforts in those two countries. This coffee blend is named after Shiloh, a place of peace in the Old Testament.
Quran Verses jar
For Muslims in interfaith families or who celebrate Christmas culturally, this London-based seller of Islamic gifts offers a Quran Verses jar, brimming with color-coded cards and printed verses suitable for a range of emotions and situations.
Zodiac astrology sign glass cup
Seeking a celestial item for the astrology lovers in your life? Opt for a glass cup (plus lid and straw) with their zodiac sign.
Holy family Nativity play set
The Catholic-owned company Shining Light Dolls has toys of the Catholic saints, including a vinyl play set of the holy family suitable for kids of all ages. The set comes with a donkey, stable, St. Joseph, Expectant Virgin Mary and Virgin Mary with baby Jesus.
Ganesh holiday ornament
More than 70% of U.S. Hindus reportedly observe Christmas in some way, so it’s no surprise that Desi Favors, which specializes in Indian handmade products, also offers a holiday ornament of the Hindu god Ganesh.
Labyrinth-inspired meditation mug
With a finger labyrinth inscribed into the side, this handmade stoneware cup is designed to let the user trace a finger along the winding path as a form of meditation. Made by potters in Wisconsin, this mug could add spiritual depth to anyone’s morning brew.