In recent years, my family has shied away from gifting the usual holiday “stuff” and instead opted for “experience” gifts. Experience gifts are a fabulous way to minimize clutter (I mean, do we really need that fancy can-opener?) and have great times with loved ones. The memories are the gift!

Casino Rama

But there are so many great spots for local getaways. How to choose?
Sometimes, the answer is right around the corner.

Just in time for the holidays, Casino Rama Resort has a show to match every member of the family, according to Natasha Ilic, Public Relations Specialist at the Resort. “We have some great upcoming concerts that would make perfect gifts for just about anyone on your list,” says Ilic. The New Year opens with the return of Dancing with the Stars, which will run on January 6th and 7th. “This action-packed live production includes choreography never before seen on the show, plus some of your favourite performers from Dancing with the Stars,” Ilic explains. For comedy-lovers, Ilic recommends Larry the Cable Guy, who will be appearing on January 19th, and LETTERKENNY LIVE!, who will perform on March 23rd. If you’re planning a gift for the rocker in your family, Alice Cooper will return to the Resort in March. Cooper “always delights audiences with his theatrical brand of hard rock” says Ilic.

Casino Rama

A lot of locals like to “make a night of it” when they see a concert at Casino Rama Resort. Since the Resort hosts eight unique restaurants, it’s easy to find a place to cater to your party and palate. Their signature steakhouse, St. Germain’s, is perfect for making a special night even more special. “Pair your meal with a selection from our extensive wine list and finish it off with a dessert from our award-winning pastry chef,” says Ilic. If you’re looking to accommodate a variety of dietary needs, the Couchiching Court buffet is best. (Be sure to indulge in their decadent dessert bar!). For after the show, check out the Simcoe Yard House, where you can enjoy free live music, catch a game, or sample one of their signature beer cocktails. Yum!

But making a night of it doesn’t have to stop at good eats! The luxury all-suite hotel at Casino Rama Resort is the perfect place to unwind “after a full day of exploring the Great Indoors,” says Ilic. Equipped with a full living area, gas fireplace, all-marble bathroom, and flat screen TV, each of their spacious rooms are the perfect backdrop for a night of indulgence. And indulgence doesn’t stop in your room; with your stay, you’ll have access to the hotel’s complimentary amenities, which include an indoor saltwater horizon pool, sauna, eucalyptus steam room, hot tub and adult-only fitness facility.

Casino Rama

Whether you’re looking to getaway with your sweetheart, your girls, or your buddies, Casino Rama Resort offers packages that make the perfect gift. In partnership with Mount St. Louis Moonstone, their “Ski & Stay” package includes lift tickets, luxury accommodations, resort credits, and more. Their “Getaway for Two” and “Girls Getaway” packages are available year-round and are perfect for those in need of a little pampering. But these packages disappear fast, so make sure you book ahead!

So, do you gift tickets, dinner, accommodations, or an inclusive package? If you just can’t decide, don’t worry! “With a Casino Rama Resort gift card, your loved ones get to design their own dream package based on their favourite amenities,” says Illic. But the best part is, “You don’t need to travel far to experience luxury, its right in your backyard.”