Holiday gift round-up Holiday gift round-up Holiday gift round-up

Looking for gifts that go beyond the typical stocking stuffers? This holiday season, wrap a little UW magic and celebrate learning, culture and connection across the University. From museum and arboretum memberships to books and performances, this curated list highlights meaningful ways you can share the spirit of curiosity and generosity. Whether you’re shopping for nature lovers, arts enthusiasts or devoted Huskies, these gifts offer experiences that will last well beyond the holidays.

A Gift of Wonder: Membership to the Burke Museum

Located on the UW campus, the Burke Museum is part of the College of Arts & Sciences. Its 113,000-square-foot building, opened in 2019, turns the traditional museum “inside out,” inviting visitors to see research and conservation in action. Membership also includes reciprocal access to the Port Townsend Marine Science Center and the Stonerose Interpretive Center & Eocene Fossil Site in Republic, Washington.

A Natural Appeal: Membership to the Washington Park Arboretum

Jointly managed by UW and the City of Seattle, the 230-acre Washington Park Arboretum features a dynamic collection of plants—some found nowhere else in the Northwest. Enjoy self-guided forest-bathing tours, join private, public and tram tours or just go for a walk in nature. Membership helps support care and conservation at the Arboretum.

Become Part of the Pack: Membership in the UW Alumni Association (UWAA)

You don’t have to be an alum to join. All UWAA members receive early access to free lectures, borrowing privileges at UW Libraries and access to EBSCO online journals. Membership also includes the UW Magazine and myriad opportunities to engage with a vibrant community of alumni who want to stay connection to the University.

For the Bird-Obsessed: “Woodpecker: A Year in the Life of North American Woodpeckers”

An ideal gift for bird lovers, this book explores the natural and cultural history of woodpeckers across landscapes from the boreal forest northern Canada to the forests of Mexico and the Caribbean. Written and photographed by Paul Bannick, ’86, it’s an excellent pick for wildlife enthusiasts and fans of nature photography.

For the History Buff: “Where the City Meets the Sound: The Story of Seattle’s Waterfront”

This new history by Jennifer Ott, ’93, and released through the University of Washington Press, offers an in-depth exploration of Seattle’s waterfront from an environmental perspective. With vivid photography, the coffee-table book reveals how identity, space and control have shaped one of Seattle’s most iconic places.

To Go with the Show: Meany Center for the Performing Arts Tickets

Meany Center brings innovative performances from around the world to the UW’s campus, enriching public engagement and cultural exchange. Subscription packages and choose-your-own-series options could make excellent gifts. Upcoming highlights include jazz vocalist Dianne Reeves in “Christmas Time Is Here,” a winter performance of Ephrat Asherie Dance with the live jazz sound of Arturo O’Farril and a Valentine’s Day concert by the Grammy-nominated Baylor Project.

For the Husky on the Move: Treat yourself to a UW License Plate

With $28 of plate purchases going to the UW’s general scholarship fund, this is a great way to show school spirit and benefit students at the same time.