Top 12 Gifts for Music
1SHOKZ 38-E310-ST-PK OpenDots ONE Wireless Open-Ear Clip-On Earbuds Pink - pink
The Irish Times and Irish Examiner both recommend these clip-on earbuds for good audio without blocking outside sound.
€199.95Arnotts
11StudioPRO | Noise Cancelling Headphones
The Irish Times praised its clear sound and punchy, not overwhelming bass, rated 4.8 from 100 reviews at OneSonic.
€169.99OneSonic
Tickets, chosen well
Small venues often make a better night than a big arena. A band in a 200 capacity room, close enough to see the drummer sweat, beats a seat behind a pillar. If you are not sure who they want to see, a gift voucher for a ticket site or a local venue lets them choose.
Two tickets means you are part of the present. That is often the part they remember most.
Earplugs that keep the sound
Regular gig goers should be wearing ear protection and most are not. Filtered earplugs lower the volume evenly, so the band still sounds like the band, and they come in tiny cases that live on a keyring.
Gig essentials
The small things that make a night out easier make good presents: a crossbody bag that is fine in a crowd, a power bank so the phone survives the encore, a lightweight rain jacket for outdoor shows and a reusable bottle for festivals.
Keepsakes for the nights they loved
Years of gigs leave a drawer of ticket stubs and a phone full of blurry photos. A frame or album for the stubs, a frame for a setlist or poster, or a photo book of live music turns those nights into something on the wall.
Records from the bands they saw
After a great gig, people often want the record that goes with it. Vinyl, merch or a signed print bought straight from the band is a lovely follow up present, and more of the money reaches the artist.
Not sure which band, or which edition? Ask them to keep a HintDrop list of the gigs and records they are eyeing, and family can tap Dibs so two people do not book the same night.
Festivals and big days out
If their year revolves around festivals, think about the comfort side of things. A sturdy poncho, a small folding stool, a good pair of waterproof socks and a clip on bag for the campsite are all unglamorous and all gratefully received once the weather turns.
For a weekend away, a contribution towards a festival ticket is a generous gift in itself, and a group of relatives can chip in together on a bigger present using a group gift on HintDrop.
Frequently asked questions
What do you buy someone who loves going to gigs?
Tickets first, ideally two so you go together. Then the things that make gigs better, like filtered earplugs and a small crowd friendly bag, and keepsakes such as a frame for ticket stubs.
How do I give gig tickets as a present?
Print or screenshot the confirmation and put it in a card, or wrap something small from the band, like a record or a T shirt, with the tickets inside.
What if I do not know which band to book?
A gift voucher for a ticket site or their favourite local venue works well, or ask them to keep a wishlist of the gigs they would love to go to.
Are earplugs a thoughtful gift?
For a regular gig goer, very. Filtered earplugs protect their hearing without spoiling the sound, and most people never buy a good pair for themselves.
What is a good gift for someone who goes to festivals?
Comfort and weather gear works best: a waterproof poncho, a folding stool, waterproof socks and a reusable bottle. They are practical, they pack small and they get used every summer.
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