The occasion may be: Expression of love (Valentine's Day) or friendship.Expression of gratitude for a gift received. Expression of piety, in the form of charity. Expression of solidarity, in the form of mutual aid. To share wealth.  To offset misfortune. Offering travel souvenirs. Custom, on occasions (often celebrations) such as  A birthday (the person who has his or her birthday gives cake, etc. and/or receives gifts) This is most commonly from a family member or girlfriend/boyfriend. A potlatch, in societies where status is associated with gift-giving rather than acquisition. Christmas (People give one another gifts, often supposedly receiving them from Santa Claus.) Saint Nicholas (People give each other gifts, often supposedly receiving them from Saint Nicholas.) A wedding (the couple receives gifts and gives food and/or drinks at the wedding reception.) A wedding anniversary (each spouse receives gifts.) A funeral (visitors bring flowers, the relatives of the deceased give food and/or drinks after the ceremonial part.) A birth (the baby receives gifts, or the mother receives a gift from the father known as a push present.) Passing an examination (the student receives gifts.) Father's Day (the father receives gifts.) Mother's Day (the mother receives gifts.) Exchange of gifts between a guest and a host, often a traditional practice. Lagniappe. Retirement Gifts Congratulations Gifts Engagement Gifts Wedding Gifts Anniversary Gifts Birthday Gifts House Warming Day Gifts New Baby Gifts