10 Gifts To Give Your Familia on Nochebuena

With the holiday season, Nochebuena is a big deal for Latinx families. Most festive celebrations for Latinxs happen on Christmas Eve as opposed to Christmas Day. It’s a time to gather with loved ones to eat, drink, play games, and dance. Many also attend midnight mass, commonly known as Misa de Gallo (Mass of the Rooster).

Food is a special part of the occasion, and the type of Latin American dishes that families make vary. In a Cuban household, you can expect lechón to be served. Pan de jamón is popular in Venezuela during this time of year. Tamales and pozole are part of Mexican traditions, and in Puerto Rico, they imbibe in coquito.  

Of course, exchanging regalos is another fun activity that happens on Nochebuena. Let’s be real, choosing the right gift for relatives is not always easy. If you’re looking for something that’s unique and memorable, we’ve got you covered. The items on this list aren’t generic and will show you really put thought into picking them.

Disclosure: Every product is independently selected by our editors. Items purchased through our links may earn us a commission.

1. ‘Twas Nochebuena by Roseanne Greenfield Thong & Sara Palacios

This book is a wonderful gift idea for a young sobrina or sobrino. Written by Roseanne Greenfield Thong and illustrated by Sara Palacios, ‘Twas Nochebuena ($12.59) tells the story of a family who’s getting ready for their Christmas Eve festivities. Kids will have fun seeing the characters assemble tamales, decorate, and play. The rhyming text is also a great way for children to learn about this Latino tradition. The book has a 4.9 star rating out of 386 reviews.  

‘Twas Nochebuena, $12.59, available at amazon.com. 

2. Viviana D’ Ontañon Gold Rosary Necklace

If the person you’re shopping for loves jewelry, this beautiful Gold Rosary Necklace ($32) from Viviana D’ Ontañon is sure to impress. The brand is named after its Puerto Rican founder, who first began creating accessories when she was a teen. The neck piece is crafted out of high-quality 14K gold plated brass and features exquisite bead detailing. The style is modest, yet eye-catching. It will be a cherished addition to your family member’s jewelry collection.

Viviana D’ Ontañon Gold Rosary Necklace, $32, available at vivianadontanon.com.

3. Ceja Vineyards 2022 Pinot Noir, Carneros

Nestled in the Carneros region of Napa Valley, California, is a Mexican American-owned vineyard called Ceja Vineyards. They produce many wine varietals, making their bottles perfect for wine enthusiasts. The 2022 Pinot Noir ($68) is a full-bodied red wine with notes of lavender, spice, red cherry, and cinnamon. Don’t be surprised if the person you’re getting this for decides to pop open the bottle and enjoy a glass to usher in La Navidad.    

Ceja Vineyards 2022 Pinot Noir Carneros, $68, available at cejavineyards.com.

4. My Cajita Natividad Box

You can spot nativity scenes in many Latinx homes during the holiday season. They represent the birth of Jesus Christ artistically and carry a lot of religious and spiritual meaning. The My Cajita Natividad Box ($85) is a 10-piece set that has been handcrafted and painted by artisans in Mexico. The figurines include Baby Jesus, Mother Mary, Father Joseph, ox and donkey, shepherds, sheep and lambs, the Three Wise Men, and the angel.     

My Cajita Natividad Box, $85, available at mycajita.com.

5. Albisa Noche Buena Candle

Albisa is a Cuban American-owned business that specializes in hand poured candles that pay homage to Latinx heritage. Their Noche Buena Candle ($32) is inspired by founder Isabel’s memories of Nochebuena celebrations with her Cuban familia. She wanted to capture the joy and liveliness of the tradition. The aroma is a citrus-infused blend with traces of spiced apple, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cardamom. When lit, this candle will make any room smell like the holidays.

Albisa Candles Noche Buena Candle, $32, available at albisacandles.com.

6. Anima Mundi Apothecary HAPPINESS Powder | Herbal “Coffee”

There’s no question that a café-inspired gift is always a good idea. Anyone who likes to start their mornings off with a cup of cafecito may be interested in trying the HAPPINESS Powder | Herbal “Coffee” ($35). It balances your mood and gives you an energy boost without the crash that can sometimes happen with caffeine. It’s made with “happy herbs” like Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, and Mucuna. Plus, it contains coffee-inspired flavors from the addition of roasted dandelion and chicory and organic vanilla. Just mix it with hot water or tea and add milk or creamer. 

Anima Mundi Apothecary founder Adriana Ayales hails from Costa Rica and is inspired by ancient healing remedies. Her products are a natural way to improve your health and well-being, making them wonderful gifts.   

Anima Mundi Apothecary HAPPINESS Powder | Herbal “Coffee”, $35, available at animamundiherbals.com or on Amazon.com.

7. Millie Rose Co Nochebuena Christmas Shirt

Millie Rose Co is a Latina-owned business that creates many fun apparel with Spanish phrases and expressions. The Nochebuena Christmas Shirt ($39.99) is a festive garment that’s also comfy to wear. It’s available in a variety of vibrant colors and has a cute design on the front. This Etsy shop has received an overall 5 star rating out of nearly 600 reviews. Regarding another product, one customer commented, “Item as described. Great quality!”

  Millie Rose Co Nochebuena Christmas Shirt, $39.99, available at etsy.com.

8. Café Con Leche PlanHER Mujer Positive Thoughts Cards

This Latina-owned small business was started by Jessie Haywood. She wanted to bring more Latinx representation into the stationary space and create bilingual products that embrace Spanish and English. So, she established Café Con Leche PlanHER with the mission to craft items that inspire. Positivity is a beautiful gift to give and the Mujer Positive Thoughts Cards ($15) make that possible. The deck consists of 52 cards with encouraging messages to empower and uplift. They also feature lovely illustrations.   

Café Con Leche PlanHER Mujer Positive Thoughts Cards, $15, available at cafeconlecheplanher.com.

9. Hija De Tu Madre Happy Holidays Jefa Gift Set

The jefa in your life deserves an amazing gift that shows her how special she is to you. That’s the sentiment that inspired this set from Hija De Tu Madre. The Happy Holidays Jefa Gift Set ($99, originally $126) has a few essential items your loved one will find handy. It includes a planner, mystery notebook, sticker pack, and jefa desk plate all in a cute pink tote. An added bonus is it’s over 20% off right now.  

Hija De Tu Madre Happy Holidays Jefa Gift Set, $99 (originally $126), available at hijadetumadre.com.

10. Artelexia Hand Painted Wooden Virgen Cross w/ Milagros

This Latinx-owned business sources its products from artisans and other vendors within the Latinx community. The items you’ll find in the online shop celebrate our culture and heritage. The Artelexia Hand Painted Wooden Virgen Cross ($18) showcases stunning rustic craftsmanship. The wooden cross has floral designs and features the Virgen de Guadalupe in the center surrounded by milagro charms. It carries much spiritual significance. It’s a beautiful piece that can be used as home decor or added to an altar.   

Artelexia Hand Painted Wooden Virgen Cross w/Milagros, $18, available at artelexia.com.