When searching for the elusive gift for that special someone this holiday season, understanding the “experience economy” can ease pressure in the decision-making process. Influenced by Millennials and almost equally impacted by Baby Boomers, this new economic concept changes gift-giving practices for most people.
An experienced economy exists when an individual’s happiness revolves around creating memories rather than simply purchasing and receiving objects with little or no meaning. Eventbrite, a leading self-service ticketing platform, in summer 2014 and summer 2015 sponsored Harris polls to study the experiential buying habits of both Millennials and Baby Boomers. Eventbrite released the most recent results in August and showed that Millennials’ initial interest in experiences to create memories is also occurring with Baby Boomers.
According to the study, 94 percent of Millennials (ages 18 to 34) and 91 percent of Baby Boomers (ages 51 to 70) believe experiences are an important aspect of leading a fulfilling life. Furthermore, more than 40 percent of Baby Boomers are attending more events now compared to 10 years ago.
In announcing these findings, Julia Hartz, co-founder and president of Eventbrite, said, “Boomers and their adult children may be surprised to find that they share the same ‘live more’ mentality. While there’s been a lot of attention on Millennials’ habits and spending behavior … boomers are also a big part of the growing trend of spending on experiences over things.”
Eventbrite research also showed that since 1987, the share of consumer spending on live experiences and events relative to total U.S. consumer spending increased 70 percent.
Attending performing arts events is great way to celebrate or experience a special time, bond with family and friends, and create memories that last a lifetime. What better time than the holidays for the usual family outing to see A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker, and experience the show together?
Need options to “live more” this holiday season? The Performing Arts Series at Johnson County Community College offers holiday events in case the “usual” isn’t what you have in mind.
Reduced Shakespeare Company, Saturday, December 5:
The Ultimate Christmas Show (Abridged) or the “Annual Holiday Variety Show and Christmas Pageant at St. Everybody’s Non-Denominational Universalist Church,” has a small problem. None of the scheduled acts arrive, so the three members of the Reduced Shakespeare Company jump into service and perform the entire show by themselves. Hilarity ensues.
Jim Brickman’s Comfort & Joy, Saturday, December 12:
Brickman showcases new music and holiday favorites. With featured musical guests, Brickman fuses together feelings of comfort and joy with hits like “Valentine,” “If You Believe” and “The Gift.” This event will remind you of what we cherish during the most wonderful time of the year – togetherness.
In addition to the Series, local arts groups and community events are on the schedule:
- KU Vespers on the Road (7:30 p.m., Friday, Dec. 4) Featuring student performers from the University of Kansas’ orchestra and choirs.
- American Youth Ballet presents The Nutcracker
(2 and 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 19, and 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 20 The traditional story of Clara, the mouse king and the heroic Nutcracker. - Ensemble Iberica (7 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 20) presents “Fado of Lisbon,” urban folk music described as “the soul of Portugal.” Nathalie Pires is the featured vocalist, along with Pedro Pimentel.
With this kind of variety, you’ll find something for that Millennial or other special people, on your holiday list! And if you aren’t sure what to choose, gift certificates are available!
To buy tickets or for more information about the Performing Arts Series at JCCC, visit www.jccc.edu/theseries or call 913-469-4445.
–Emily Behrmann
Interesting stat that you mentioned that 40 percent of Baby Boomers are attending more events now compared to 10 years ago. It is great to see more people getting out and about and enjoy the entertaining world around them.