We swear this pine-scented candle is Christmas magic in a jar

Once upon a time, I believed the perfect Secret Santa gift didn’t exist. I hate the thought of saddling someone with an inexpensive gift they don’t need (another mug), don’t want (kitschy socks) or would just land on the regift pile. (Which is pretty much everything. I mean, haven’t we all been fueling these things with the same gifts since the beginning of time?) And then I met the Thymes Frasier Fir candle.

Yes, I am aware of the fact that a candle sounds like the easy way out and therefore makes it as lame as the aforementioned mugs and socks. However, one whiff and you’ll understand.

What does the Thymes Frasier Fir candle smell like?

If holiday magic was a candle, this is what it would smell like. Launched by the Minnesota-based Thymes back in 2004, it’s developed a cult-like following ever since. And for good reason. The heavenly blend of Siberian fir, cedar and sandalwood is just Christmas. There’s no other way to put it. It’s outdoorsy and fresh without smelling artificial and while there are thousands of other evergreen candles out there, IMO, they’re all just sub-par imposters. (Trust me, I’ve tried more than my fair share.)

Admittedly, I’m kind of ashamed it took me so long to get one. I’ve heard of the Frasier Fir legacy for years and if I’m being totally honest, I’m not even responsible for purchasing the one I have. My partner and I were wandering around our local garden supply store when he picked up a votive and with wide, happy eyes was like, “What is this? Whatever it is, we need it.” This is the man who knows I have a literal candle drawer to house a back stock of candles. The man who regularly shakes boxes with disdain asking, “Ugh. Is it another candle?” That guy. The fact he insisted on purchasing this festive jar of happiness basically tells you everything you need to know.

While I’d pay double just to have this smell in my nose holes every day from Halloween to New Years, it’s also refreshingly affordable. Granted, it’s no Target bargain, but it’s not Dyptique-levels of spendy, either. (An expense I cannot rationalize as it’s almost literally lighting money on fire.) The Thymes Frasier Fir candle is available in a variety of sizes and container styles from votives to gigantic glass luminaries with prices starting at $16. You could easily snag one for everyone on your list and I promise, no one will be disappointed.

Shop the perfect Secret Santa Christmas candle below!

Thymes Frasier Fir Candle

Thymes

Frasier Fir

•

$34

SHOP

A version of this article was originally published on December 13, 2021. It has been updated.