Finding the perfect romantic gift for couples can be challenging, especially with so many options available. The best gifts balance thoughtfulness and fun, helping couples deepen their connection or create lasting memories. The HIONXMGA 60pcs Capsule Date Night Ideas Bottle stands out for its variety of fun activities, while the Luna Bean Hand Casting Kit offers a sentimental keepsake. However, tradeoffs include choosing between practical, experience-based, or sentimental gifts, and balancing cost with meaningfulness. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of the top picks and what makes each one unique.
Key Takeaways
- Variety in gift types ranges from activity kits to sentimental keepsakes, catering to different couple preferences.
- Top-ranked options combine practicality with emotional value, making them versatile for many occasions.
- Experience-based gifts tend to foster shared memories, but may require more time and effort to use.
- Price points vary widely, but the most memorable gifts often balance cost with personal significance.
- Gifts that encourage interaction or personalization are favored for strengthening bonds.
| HIONXMGA 60pcs Capsule Date Night Ideas Bottle, Romantic Gift for Couples |  | Best Overall for Variety and Convenience | Brand: HIONXMGA | Model Name: Date Night Ideas | Item Weight: 0.04 kg | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Luna Bean Hand Casting Kit – Couples, Wedding, Hand Mold |  | Best for Lasting Memories and Artistic Couples | Molding Powder: 600g | Casting Stone: 1000g | Includes: plastic molding container, sandpapers, sculpting knife, detailing tools | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| What I Love About You Book – Fill-in-the-Blank Couples Gift for Anniversary, Christmas & More |  | Best for Personal Expression and Sentiment | Pages: 112 | Prompts: 50 | Size: 4.5 x 6 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 40 Fun Date Night Scratch Off Card Game Ideas for Couples |  | Best for Spontaneous and Spicy Date Nights | Number of Cards: 40 | Material: Cardstock | Recommended Age: 16 years and up | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Our Adventure Book Scrapbook Photo Album for Couples and Travel Memories |  | Best for Travel and Large Memory Collections | Dimensions: 7.7″L x 8.9″W x 0.9″H | Sheets: 73 sheets (146 pages) | Material: Cardboard, Kraft Paper, Metal | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| The Ultimate Date Night Game by Relatable |  | Best for Versatile Connection and Long-Distance Couples | Number of Cards: 200 | Categories: Match, Keep This Card If, Rapid Fire, Mostly Likely To, Dare | Players: 2+ | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 35 Scratch Off Date Night Ideas for Couples – Fun & Exciting Challenge Card Game |  | Best for Spontaneous and Adventurous Couples | Included Components: 2 Heart Shaped Coins, 35 Scratch-Off Date Night Idea Cards, Instructions | Unit Count: 1 | Item Type: Couples Date Night Card Game | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Anniversary Candle – Romantic 6oz Gift for Men, Women & Couples |  | Best for Gentle, Sentimental Romantic Gifts | Material: Ceramic | Size: 3 x 3 inches | Burn Time: 35 hours | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| It’s a Date! 40 Fun and Romantic Scratch Off Date Night Ideas for Couples |  | Best for Large-Scale Variety and Special Occasions | Brand: It’s a Date! | Count: 40 | Included Components: Cards, Instructions | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Our Bucket List: A Journal for Couples |  | Best for Long-Term Planning and Memory Building | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown | |||
| Date Night Cookbook and Activities for Couples: Recipes and Games for a Romantic Night In |  | Best for Creating Personalized Romantic Evenings | Number of recipes: Varies | Number of activities: Multiple | Intended audience: Couples seeking romantic nights in | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
HIONXMGA 60pcs Capsule Date Night Ideas Bottle, Romantic Gift for Couples
This set stands out for offering over 60 romantic date ideas in a compact, beautifully packaged capsule format, making it a versatile gift for many occasions. Compared to the 40 Fun Date Night Scratch Off Card Game Ideas, it provides a broader range of activities, though the ideas are somewhat generic. Its keepsake cards foster deeper connection beyond just fun, which is a bonus for couples seeking meaningful moments. The main tradeoff is that the plastic capsules can be fragile if not kept dry, and the ideas may not perfectly match every couple’s preferences. This pick makes the most sense for couples who want a quick, all-in-one inspiration kit that can be reused for multiple special days.
Pros:- Provides over 60 creative and romantic date ideas to keep relationships fresh
- Includes keepsake cards for meaningful conversations and reminders
- Suitable for various occasions like anniversaries, weddings, and birthdays
- Compact and beautifully packaged, making it an ideal gift
Cons:- Capsules are made of plastic and should be kept dry
- Ideas are generic and may not suit all couples’ preferences
Best for: Couples looking for a versatile, easy-to-gift set that sparks spontaneous dates and meaningful conversations
Not ideal for: Those who prefer highly personalized or activity-specific gifts, as the suggestions are fairly generic
- Brand:HIONXMGA
- Model Name:Date Night Ideas
- Item Weight:0.04 kg
- Included Components:60+ Date Ideas, 2 Date Cards
- Material Type:Plastic
- Recommended Uses:Couple gifts, engagement gifts, wedding gifts, bridal showers, bachelorette gifts
Our verdict“This set is perfect for couples seeking a broad, convenient way to keep date nights exciting and meaningful.”
Luna Bean Hand Casting Kit – Couples, Wedding, Hand Mold
This kit excels for couples who appreciate hands-on projects that result in a tangible keepsake, making it ideal for weddings or anniversaries. Unlike the Our Adventure Book Scrapbook, which focuses on photo storage, this kit captures the intricate details of your hands, creating a deeply personal memento. It offers high-quality materials and clear instructions, suitable for beginners but requires patience for drying and setting. The main consideration is that it’s limited to hand and arm casting, so couples seeking a broader memory collection might prefer a scrapbook. This choice is perfect for those wanting a durable, artistic impression of their bond that can be displayed or gifted.
Pros:- Captures detailed fingerprints and fine lines for high-quality results
- Includes all necessary materials and clear instructions
- Creates a lasting keepsake perfect for special occasions
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced crafters
Cons:- Requires some drying and setting time
- Might be messy for some users
- Limited to hand and arm casting only
Best for: Couples who enjoy creative projects and want a lasting, artistic keepsake of their relationship
Not ideal for: Couples who prefer digital memories or those who dislike messiness and drying times
- Molding Powder:600g
- Casting Stone:1000g
- Includes:plastic molding container, sandpapers, sculpting knife, detailing tools
- Product ingredients:Alginate Molding Powder, Casting Stone
Our verdict“Ideal for artistic couples wanting a durable, handcrafted memento of their relationship.”
What I Love About You Book – Fill-in-the-Blank Couples Gift for Anniversary, Christmas & More
This personalized fill-in-the-blank love book offers a heartfelt way to express feelings and memories, making it suitable for anniversaries or Christmas. Compared to the Our Adventure Book Scrapbook, which emphasizes photos and travel memories, this book focuses on written reflections, allowing couples to share their thoughts and stories more intimately. It’s a compact, hardcover keepsake that can be easily stored or gifted, though the limited 50 prompts may not satisfy those wanting more extensive storytelling. The fill-in format might not appeal to couples who prefer visual or creative projects. This gift works best for those who cherish words and personal expressions of love.
Pros:- Personalized and heartfelt gift option
- Compact size makes it easy to gift and store
- High-quality hardcover with protective cover
- Suitable for various occasions like anniversaries and Christmas
Cons:- Limited to 50 prompts, may feel incomplete for some
- Fill-in format may not appeal to everyone
- Only available in one size
Best for: Couples who enjoy sharing personal stories and sentimental notes through written prompts
Not ideal for: Partners who prefer creative, visual, or activity-based gifts, or those seeking a larger collection of prompts
- Pages:112
- Prompts:50
- Size:4.5 x 6 inches
- Hardcover:Yes
- Brand:WITTSPOT
- Model Year:2026
Our verdict“Best for couples who want to express their love through meaningful words and shared memories.”
40 Fun Date Night Scratch Off Card Game Ideas for Couples
This scratch-off card set energizes date nights with 40 creative activities that reveal themselves with a simple scratch, making it ideal for couples who enjoy surprises. Compared to the HIONXMGA Capsule Ideas, which offers a broad variety of ideas in capsule form, these cards deliver quick, spontaneous fun with a visual element. The inclusion of space for photos helps couples preserve memories from each activity, adding a sentimental touch. However, the activities can sometimes feel repetitive or may not suit couples seeking more meaningful, long-term planning. It’s a lively choice for couples who want a fun, easy-to-use game that keeps things fresh and spontaneous.
Pros:- Encourages spontaneous and creative date nights
- Includes space for photos to preserve memories
- Suitable for all couples regardless of age or relationship stage
- Elegant packaging makes it a great gift
Cons:- Limited to romantic couples, not for group activities
- No detailed instructions on how to play beyond scratching off
- Activities may feel repetitive or not universally appealing
Best for: Couples who enjoy spontaneous, playful date nights with a visual memory component
Not ideal for: Those seeking in-depth planning or more personalized activity options, as the activities are pre-set and limited
- Number of Cards:40
- Material:Cardstock
- Recommended Age:16 years and up
- Set Name:Valentines Day Gifts for Him, Her, Men, Boyfriend, Girlfriend, Husband
Our verdict“Perfect for couples who want quick, surprise-filled date ideas with a fun, visual keepsake element.”
Our Adventure Book Scrapbook Photo Album for Couples and Travel Memories
This spacious scrapbook offers over 300 photo slots across 146 pages, making it the ideal gift for couples who love documenting travels and milestones. Unlike smaller, prompt-based options like the What I Love About You Book, this album provides extensive space for creativity and visual storytelling. Its retro design and included accessories like stickers and bookmarks make it highly customizable. The main tradeoff is that the album can be bulky and less suitable for everyday or travel use, especially for couples who prefer modern, minimalistic styles. This makes it a strong choice for those wanting a comprehensive, decorative memory-keeping showcase of their adventures.
Pros:- Spacious with over 300 photo capacity
- Beautiful retro design with customizable pages
- Includes accessories like stickers and bookmarks for personalization
- Ideal gift for travel and anniversary memories
Cons:- Limited to decorative and memory-keeping use only
- May be too bulky for some travelers to carry easily
- Design may not appeal to modern minimalist tastes
Best for: Couples who want a large, customizable album to chronicle travel, milestones, or extensive memories
Not ideal for: Those who prefer sleek, modern designs or need a lightweight, portable option for travel
- Dimensions:7.7″L x 8.9″W x 0.9″H
- Sheets:73 sheets (146 pages)
- Material:Cardboard, Kraft Paper, Metal
- Includes:Gift box, bookmarks, stickers
Our verdict“Best suited for couples who want a large, decorative archive of their adventures and special moments.”
The Ultimate Date Night Game by Relatable
This game stands out for its variety of activities and ability to enhance connection through playful challenges, making it a strong alternative to the more straightforward scratch-off cards like ’35 Scratch Off Date Night Ideas.’ Compared to simple prompts, it offers deeper engagement with mini-games and conversation starters, especially valuable for long-distance couples needing a shared activity. However, it’s less appealing for couples seeking purely romantic or passive experiences, and its competitive aspect might turn off some. The inclusion of a spinner and diverse categories encourages spontaneous fun and meaningful conversations, but it requires at least two players and doesn’t include candlelight or ambiance elements. This pick makes the most sense for couples who enjoy interactive, game-based bonding that can be adapted for virtual dates.
Pros:- Encourages bonding and meaningful conversations
- Suitable for long-distance couples via video call
- Provides a variety of fun, romantic activities
Cons:- Candlelight not included, so ambiance must be added separately
- Requires at least 2 players, limiting solo or one-sided use
- May not appeal to couples seeking non-competitive games
Best for: Couples who love playful interaction and want to deepen their connection through varied activities, including long-distance partners.
Not ideal for: Couples who prefer quiet, romantic evenings without competitive or activity-based elements, or those who seek solo or non-competitive experiences.
- Number of Cards:200
- Categories:Match, Keep This Card If, Rapid Fire, Mostly Likely To, Dare
- Players:2+
- Ages:17+
- Includes:Spinner, instructions
Our verdict“This game is ideal for couples who enjoy lively, interactive bonding that can be adapted for distance or in-person dates.”
35 Scratch Off Date Night Ideas for Couples – Fun & Exciting Challenge Card Game
This set is perfect for couples seeking spontaneous fun, offering 35 unique date ideas that encourage trying new activities together, much like the larger set ‘It’s a Date!’. Unlike the bigger collection, it’s more compact and straightforward, making it easier to incorporate into regular date nights. Its scratch-off format adds an element of surprise, though it limits flexibility once a card is scratched, which is a tradeoff compared to digital options or customizable cards. The included heart-shaped coins make planning feel special, but some couples might find the fixed ideas limiting after a few uses. This product is best suited for couples who love surprises and are comfortable with a set number of planned adventures rather than open-ended options.
Pros:- Encourages fun and adventurous date nights
- Easy-to-use scratchers with helpful clues
- Includes 35 varied ideas suitable for all relationship stages
Cons:- Once scratched, the idea cannot be changed, limiting flexibility
- Limited to 35 ideas, which may require supplement for frequent use
- No digital or customizable options included
Best for: Adventurous couples who enjoy surprise activities and want to add excitement to their routine dates.
Not ideal for: Couples who prefer digital, customizable, or reusable options, or those who dislike scratch-off mechanics and fixed ideas.
- Included Components:2 Heart Shaped Coins, 35 Scratch-Off Date Night Idea Cards, Instructions
- Unit Count:1
- Item Type:Couples Date Night Card Game
- Number of Packs:1
- Age Range:16 years and up
- Material:Cardstock
Our verdict“This set is perfect for couples who thrive on surprises and enjoy trying new experiences together regularly.”
Anniversary Candle – Romantic 6oz Gift for Men, Women & Couples
This candle makes a heartfelt gift with its calming lavender scent and meaningful message, ideal for celebrating love quietly. Compared to more interactive gifts like game sets, it offers a passive, sensory experience that can enhance romantic ambiance. Its 35-hour burn time ensures long-lasting enjoyment, but the 6 oz size might feel limited for some, and those who prefer unscented candles may find it less appealing. The ceramic container adds elegance but requires careful handling, especially around delicate surfaces. This choice works best for couples who appreciate sentimental gestures and subtle atmospheres, rather than active or playful gift ideas.
Pros:- Long-lasting 35-hour burn time
- Calming lavender scent enhances relaxation
- Thoughtful message and elegant design
Cons:- Limited to 6 oz size, might seem small
- May not appeal to those who prefer unscented candles
- Requires careful handling due to ceramic material
Best for: Couples celebrating anniversaries or special occasions who prefer a calming, sensory gift with a personal touch.
Not ideal for: Couples seeking highly interactive or long-lasting decor beyond a single candle, or those sensitive to scents or ceramic handling issues.
- Material:Ceramic
- Size:3 x 3 inches
- Burn Time:35 hours
- Scent:Lavender
Our verdict“This candle suits couples who value relaxing, aromatic gestures that add to romantic ambiance without requiring active participation.”
It’s a Date! 40 Fun and Romantic Scratch Off Date Night Ideas for Couples
This expansive set offers 40 larger, gift-ready cards with a variety of romantic ideas, making it ideal for couples who enjoy spontaneity and want a broad selection for different occasions, like Valentine’s or Christmas. Compared to smaller sets, it provides more options, but the downside is that once a card is scratched, the idea is gone, limiting flexibility. The larger cards and attractive box make it appealing as a thoughtful gift, though some couples may find the fixed ideas too repetitive over time. It’s best suited for those who want a substantial collection of ideas to draw from for special or regular date nights.
Pros:- Large, gift-ready box with bigger cards
- Includes 40 varied date ideas for all occasions
- Encourages spontaneous, memorable moments
Cons:- Ideas cannot be changed once scratched
- Limited to 40 ideas, may need supplementary options
- No digital or customizable features
Best for: Couples who love spontaneous surprises and want a versatile, gift-ready collection for various celebrations.
Not ideal for: Couples who prefer digital or reusable activity options or dislike fixed ideas that can’t be changed once revealed.
- Brand:It’s a Date!
- Count:40
- Included Components:Cards, Instructions
- Occasion:Christmas, Valentine’s Day
- Target Audience:Unisex-Adults
- Best Sellers Rank:#2,024 in Toys & Games
Our verdict“This set is best for couples who enjoy a broad, spontaneous approach to date nights and appreciate a ready-to-gift presentation.”
Our Bucket List: A Journal for Couples
This journal offers a dedicated space for couples to envision and record their shared dreams and adventures, encouraging long-term relationship growth beyond immediate date ideas. Compared to activity-based gifts, it fosters reflection and planning, which may appeal more to couples who value meaningful milestones. Its lack of detailed features or prompts might be a downside for those seeking guided exercises, but it provides the essential framework for couples to create their own adventure. It’s particularly suited for partners who enjoy documenting their journey and setting future goals together, rather than seeking quick or passive gifts.
Pros:- Encourages planning and documenting adventures
- Great for strengthening relationships
- Provides prompts and space for shared goals
Cons:- Lacks detailed specifications or interactive features
- No included content beyond prompts and pages
- May be less engaging for couples preferring immediate activities
Best for: Couples who want to build a shared future and enjoy planning and recording their experiences over time.
Not ideal for: Couples looking for immediate, active entertainment or those uninterested in journaling or long-term projects.
Our verdict“This journal suits couples focused on long-term relationship building and capturing their journey together.”
Date Night Cookbook and Activities for Couples: Recipes and Games for a Romantic Night In
This book stands out for offering a curated mix of romantic recipes paired with engaging activities, making it ideal for couples who want to craft intimate nights at home. Unlike the 40 Fun Date Night Scratch Off Card Game Ideas, which focuses solely on challenge-based fun, this guide combines culinary creativity with interactive experiences, fostering deeper connection. However, the lack of detailed recipes or specific activity instructions can leave some couples unsure of what to expect, and the absence of reviews makes it harder to gauge its effectiveness. This pick is perfect for those who value a tailored, hands-on approach to date nights but are willing to invest some planning effort.
Pros:- Offers a variety of romantic recipes to surprise a partner
- Includes fun, interactive activities to deepen intimacy
- Encourages quality time and shared experiences
Cons:- No specific details or sample recipes provided in the book preview
- Lacks customer reviews or ratings to validate its effectiveness
- Requires effort to select and prepare recipes and activities
Best for: Couples who enjoy cooking together and seek personalized, memorable nights at home
Not ideal for: Pairs looking for ready-made activities with clear instructions or quick solutions
- Number of recipes:Varies
- Number of activities:Multiple
- Intended audience:Couples seeking romantic nights in
- Format:Paperback or eBook
- Author:Unknown
- Pages:Approx. 100
Our verdict“This book is ideal for couples eager to craft personalized date nights but may require extra effort to implement fully.”
How We Picked
To select these products, I evaluated factors such as usability, emotional impact, versatility, quality, and overall value. I prioritized gifts that offer meaningful experiences or sentimental value, as these tend to resonate most with couples. The ranking also considers ease of use—simple gifts for beginners and more elaborate options for those seeking a special surprise. Price was balanced against emotional and practical appeal, ensuring options for different budgets. This approach guarantees that each product appeals to a specific type of couple or occasion, making the list both diverse and purposeful.Factors to Consider When Choosing Romantic Gift Ideas For Couples
Choosing the perfect romantic gift involves more than just the product itself. Consider the couple’s personalities, relationship stage, and shared interests to find a gift that truly resonates. Budget is also a key factor—there are meaningful options at every price point. Additionally, think about whether the gift encourages shared experiences or provides sentimental keepsakes. Long-term durability and ease of use can make a gift more appreciated over time, while personalized touches often create lasting memories.Type of Gift: Experience, Sentiment, or Practical
Decide whether you want to give an experience that creates memories, a sentimental keepsake, or a practical gift that can be used regularly. Experience gifts like activity kits foster shared moments but may require more effort to organize, while keepsakes like hand molds or journals offer lasting sentimental value. Practical gifts, such as candles or cookbooks, are versatile but may lack the emotional punch some couples seek. Matching the gift type to the couple’s preferences ensures it feels personal and meaningful.
Personalization and Customization
Personalized gifts tend to leave a stronger impression, showing thoughtfulness and effort. Items like fill-in-the-blank books or custom journals allow couples to add their own stories, making the gift unique. However, customization often comes at a higher price or longer wait time. Consider what level of personalization fits your budget and timeframe, and whether the couple values customized items over ready-made options.
Budget and Value
Gifts can range from inexpensive, fun scratch-off cards to more elaborate keepsakes. It’s important to match your budget with the gift’s emotional and practical value. Sometimes, investing a bit more in a versatile or sentimental item pays off in lasting appreciation. Conversely, inexpensive, creative gifts can be just as meaningful if they align with the couple’s personality. Avoid overspending on gifts that might not suit the couple’s style or interests.
Ease of Use and Engagement
Consider whether the gift encourages interaction or is simple to enjoy. Gifts like date night games or scratch-off cards promote shared activities, making them ideal for couples who enjoy having fun together. On the other hand, keepsakes or journals might require more effort to engage with but can become treasured mementos. Balancing ease of use with the potential for lasting impact helps ensure the gift is appreciated and used.
Occasion and Timing
Think about the specific occasion—anniversary, holiday, or just because. Some gifts, like the ‘What I Love About You’ book, suit romantic milestones, while others, such as date night cookbooks, are great for regular date nights. Timing can influence how a gift is received; giving a surprise experience requires planning, while a quick, heartfelt gift can be spontaneous. Tailoring your choice to the moment elevates its significance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between experience-based and sentimental gifts?
Deciding between experience-based and sentimental gifts depends on what the couple values most. Experience gifts, like activity kits or date night games, foster shared memories and are perfect for couples who enjoy doing things together. Sentimental gifts, such as hand molds or personalized books, provide lasting keepsakes that symbolize their bond. Consider their personalities—if they prefer adventures, go for experiences; if they love mementos, opt for sentimental items. Sometimes, combining both can create a balanced and memorable gift.
Are personalized gifts worth the extra cost?
Personalized gifts often carry more emotional weight because they show effort and thoughtfulness. They tend to be treasured keepsakes that remind couples of special moments or inside jokes. However, they can also require more time and expense. If the couple appreciates custom touches or you want to make a gift feel extra special, investing in personalization can be well worth it. For more casual or budget-conscious occasions, ready-made options may suffice without sacrificing meaning.
What are some budget-friendly romantic gift ideas?
There are many thoughtful options that won’t break the bank. Fun scratch-off cards or small activity kits can be inexpensive but engaging. Personalized notes or small keepsakes, like custom keychains or photo albums, also add sentimental value without a high cost. The key is to focus on the thought behind the gift rather than the price tag—creativity and personalization often matter more than money. These budget-friendly gifts can be surprisingly impactful when tailored to the couple’s interests.
How can I make a romantic gift more meaningful?
Adding a personal touch can significantly boost a gift’s emotional impact. Write a heartfelt note, include a favorite photo, or customize it with the couple’s names or a special date. Choosing a gift that reflects their shared interests or experiences makes it more relevant. Timing also plays a role—presenting the gift during a special moment or with a thoughtful explanation enhances its significance. Ultimately, the effort and thought you put into personalizing the gift turn a simple item into a cherished keepsake.
Are experience gifts suitable for long-distance couples?
Experience gifts can work well for long-distance couples if they are designed for remote participation. Virtual date night kits, online classes, or subscription services that deliver shared experiences can bridge the physical gap. However, gifts that require physical presence, like hand molds or in-person activities, are less practical. When choosing an experience gift for a long-distance couple, focus on options that promote connection and shared moments, making the distance feel smaller through thoughtful activities.
Conclusion
For couples just starting out or those who enjoy heartfelt gestures, the What I Love About You Book offers a personal touch that’s easy to customize. Those seeking a memorable keepsake might prefer the Luna Bean Hand Casting Kit, which creates a lasting memento. If budget is a concern, fun scratch-off cards and activity kits provide affordable ways to add excitement. For special occasions or couples who enjoy elaborate surprises, investing in premium options like custom journals or experience packages makes sense. Ultimately, the best gift depends on the couple’s personality, the occasion, and your budget—choose what will make their connection feel even more special in 2026.
