Celebrate Your Marathon Marriage With These 26th Anniversary Gifts

From jade gems to unique works of art.
26th wedding anniversary gifts: scented candle, custom star map, custom house print, jade dog tag
Photos, clockwise: paperwhitecandles, Twinkle in Time, Minted, Original Grain
emily rumsey the knot editor
by
Emily Rumsey
emily rumsey the knot editor
Emily Rumsey
Associate Commerce Editor
  • Emily helps maintain and update e-commerce content for The Knot
  • Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Emily worked as a website editor and manager for The Paleo Diet®
  • Emily holds two bachelor's degrees in Journalism and International Affairs with a Chinese minor
Updated Jun 21, 2024
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Did you know that marathons are 26.2 miles? So after 26 years together, your marriage has basically completed a marathon! Let your spouse know you're still rooting for them and the dream team you've formed with a special 26th anniversary gift.

But what is a good gift for the 26th wedding anniversary that'll convey such an accomplishment? To start your search, take inspiration from the various 26th wedding anniversary symbols. Below, we'll explain what they are and what they each mean. We've also curated the best 26th wedding anniversary gift ideas around, making it nearly effortless to shop for your wife, husband, partner or a couple passing this major checkpoint.

In this article:

26th Anniversary Gift Themes

Unlike other anniversary years, which are marked by both traditional and modern gifts, the 26th wedding anniversary only has a modern gift symbol: art. Whether it's photography, an abstract painting or a sculpture, this unusual anniversary theme symbolizes creativity, beauty and the enduring nature of love and marriage. It can also signify an appreciation for the beauty in life and a shared aesthetic that couples continue to cultivate together over the years. And since art comes in all shapes, sizes and styles, there are truly endless possibilities for gift-giving. It's even a great year for a DIY anniversary gift if you consider yourself particularly crafty.

Each year of marriage is also typically attributed to an anniversary flower, gemstone and color. While there isn't a designated bloom or hue for this particular year, there is an official 26th anniversary stone: jade. Known for its distinctive green shade, jade is a beautiful gemstone that represents good fortune, love and wisdom—three key components of a marriage blessed with happiness and longevity.

Keep scrolling for our favorite 26th anniversary gifts for him, her or them that incorporate these sweet symbols.

Symbolic 26th Anniversary Gifts

If you think the 26th anniversary theme of art or jade is the right choice for celebrating the milestone, we've found plenty of great options to shop. From pretty jewelry and accessories to sentimental wall art and custom portraits, our list includes tons of memorable and meaningful gift ideas.

Sheet Music Canvas Art

Sheet music canvas art 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Canvas Vows

Song art—be it soundwaves, lyrics or sheet music—is one of our favorite romantic gift ideas for your husband or wife, and it's perfect for honoring the 26th anniversary's traditional gift. This canvas can be customized with the first page of your wedding song's sheet music with an option to include the lyrics. It comes in eight different sizes and six colors to fit your home decor style.

Intersection of Love Photo Print

Personalized wall art with signpost 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Uncommon Goods

The moment two people who are meant to be together meet for the first time is magical. Mark the beginning of your beautiful journey with this personalized photo print. It features two street signs with your names and the special year fate brought you together, creating an "intersection of love." The image is available in color or black and white, with a variety of framing options, so you can hang this sentimental piece of art in your home right away.

Custom Star Map

Custom star map 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Twinkle in Time

If you feel your love was written in the stars, then this is the 26th anniversary gift for you. It features a map of the night sky on a specific date and location (such as when and where your wedding took place) to commemorate a special moment and place in your lives. Choose from various sizes and design options to suit your spouse's style or your home's interior.

Jade and Pearl Long Necklace

Jade and pearl necklace 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Neiman Marcus

Take inspiration from the 26th anniversary gemstone with this elegant necklace reminiscent of 1920s fashion. Designed and handcrafted in New York City, it features glass pearls and jade-like glass stones strung into a long necklace. The 24K yellow gold beads and clasp add a touch of glam and modernity. We guarantee it'll make an elegant addition to your spouse's jewelry collection.

Custom Digital Illustration

Custom digital illustration of couple 26th anniversary gift
Photo: PunoPrints

This thematic gift for the 26th anniversary is for any last-minute shoppers. Ready in a mere six hours, this custom digital illustration is a fun way to turn a treasured photo into a modern piece of art. While you could print out the digital file yourself (or, if you have the time, have the Etsy seller print and frame it for you), you could also simply text or email it to your partner to serve as a one-of-a-kind background for their phone, tablet or computer screen.

A Blueprint of Their Favorite Sports Stadium

Sports stadium blueprint 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Ballpark Prints

The beauty of anniversary gifts lies in their ability to celebrate shared passions and memories without always focusing on the couple themselves. This Fenway Park blueprint from Ballpark Blueprints exemplifies this sentiment to a tee. Capturing the historic charm and architectural detail of one of baseball's most iconic stadiums, it's a tribute to a shared love for sports or a memorable game attended together. Ballpark Blueprints doesn't just cater to Red Sox fans though: They have art featuring all major sports stadiums, fields and courses, from baseball to football to even golf courses.

Rainbow Glass Infinity Sculpture

Rainbow glass infinity sculpture 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Uncommon Goods

Sculptures offer a delightful alternative to traditional wall art for celebrating your 26th wedding anniversary. Take, for example, this Rainbow Glass Infinity Sculpture from Uncommon Goods. Hand-blown with swirling hues that mimic a rainbow's hues, this sculpture captivates with its graceful curves and mesmerizing design, symbolizing the infinite bond between you and your partner. It's a thoughtful anniversary gift that'll add artistic flair and heartfelt sentiment to any space.

Coral Jade Sand Bracelet

Coral Jade Sand Bracelet 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Uncommon Goods

Did you and your partner tie the knot on a beach? If so, we've discovered the ideal 26th anniversary gift for your wife, husband or spouse: a coral jade bracelet filled with beads crafted from the very sand you stood on to say "I do." The grains are sourced from hundreds of the world's most stunning beaches, or you can even send the artist sand you've saved from your own adventures. It's a truly unique keepsake that'll transport them back to those sandy shores with every glance.

Custom House Letterpress Portrait

Custom house letterpress portrait 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Minted

Here's a meaningful gift to commemorate your home sweet home. This custom portrait is rendered in a letterpress style and features specific architectural details of your current residence or first home together. A tactile, embossed texture adds to the visual appeal. You can have the small artwork come framed for a sweet 26th anniversary gift for your husband, wife, spouse or friends that honors the beautiful home they've spent years building.

Push-Pin Travel Map

Canvas Vows push-pin travel map 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Canvas Vows

For the adventurous couple, an interactive travel map is a perfect 26 years of marriage gift. This captivating blue world map transforms their travel stories into a visual masterpiece, marking each destination with a push pin. Customize the design with a meaningful quote, such as "Travel far, love well," alongside your names and wedding year. For added personalization, print out a photo from each vacation and stick it to the map. It's a unique piece of art that celebrates the past while inspiring future adventures together.

Glass Bear Figurines

Glass bear figurines 26th anniversary gifts
Photo: Swarovski

Love is un-bear-ably sweet, just like this unique glass art that celebrates 26 years of togetherness. This delicate figurine, crafted with sparkling Swarovski crystals, shows two bears holding hands with a flower and a bright red heart between them. It's a sparkling testament to your relationship as you continue creating new memories side by side.

Jade Hoop Earrings

Jade hoop earrings 26th wedding anniversary gift
Photo: CaitlynMinimalist

It's hard to find a prettier gemstone gift for the 26th wedding anniversary than this. These sterling silver or 18K gold-plated brass hoop earrings have a chunky double hoop design and make a style statement with the addition of green jade. Whether your partner rocks them daily or keeps them for special occasions (like going out for your 26th anniversary), they'll add a fashionable touch to their ensemble.

Personalized Anniversary Chronicle

Personalized Anniversary Chronicle 26th wedding anniversary gift
Photo: Personalization Mall

If your spouse enjoys reading the newspaper every day, they'll get a great kick out of this personalized anniversary chronicle. It features your name and wedding date printed on canvas, along with topical information from the very day you tied the knot. The chronicle includes the President and Vice President at the time, headline news, the top movies, songs and sports results, as well as the average cost of living. It's a fun way to look back on all that has changed over the last 26 years.

You can get 15% off your entire order with the code KNOT15PM.

Unique Circuit Board Art

Unique circuit board art 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Uncommon Goods

This modern 26th anniversary gift idea is for the self-appointed geek(s) in your life. The artwork showcases an anatomical heart cut from a red, upcycled circuit board. It's then matted on paper under glass in a black composite frame. We'd say it's a top-tier desk accessory for any techy.

Custom Paint-by-Number

Custom paint by number 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Rarton

Whether your partner is a talented artist or a creative novice, they'll love this really unique take on the modern 26th anniversary theme: Choose any image—be it of the two of you, your beloved pet or a nostalgic snapshot of your wedding venue—and have it turned into a paint-by-number activity. The Etsy seller will provide the pre-printed high-quality canvas, a numbered acrylic-based paint set and three paint brushes, so they'll be all set for an evening of crafts. The set even includes two hooks, so once it's all dry they can mount it to the wall for everyone to see their artistry.

Jade Dog Tag

Jade dog tag 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Original Grain

For the spouse with serious style and swagger, this dog tag necklace is a meaningful 26-year anniversary gift. As mentioned, jade is often associated with good luck, prosperity and protection, so they'll be feeling all the love thanks to this gift. The dog tag features a natural jade pendant on a silver box chain for a rugged yet refined look that stands out.

Alternative 26th Anniversary Gifts

Feel free to follow your instincts on what would make a special anniversary gift for your spouse, regardless of sticking to the year's theme. After all, you know them best! From stylish closet additions to charming home decor to preplanned date ideas, you're sure to find a thoughtful gift for the 26th wedding anniversary on our list below.

Made-to-Measure Brown Leather Jacket

Made-to-measure brown leather jacket 26th anniversary gift
Photo: The Jacket Maker

Upgrade their style this anniversary with a timeless jacket crafted from premium full-grain leather. A rich brown hue and detailed stitching exude sophistication, while the comfortable fit and durable materials ensure it will be a cherished piece for years to come. Available in standard sizing up to 4XL, it caters to a wide range of body types. If your spouse is particular about the fit, you can also have the jacket custom-made to their exact measurements for a perfect, personalized touch. They'll be serving some serious Top Gun vibes on your next date night, which we'd say is a win for both of you.

Custom Map Necklace

Custom map necklace 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Talia Sari

Thinking back on special places in your relationship, whether it's your wedding venue from 26 years ago, the house where you continue to nurture your love or your favorite vacation spot, makes for a heartwarming journey. The Classic Map Necklace from Talia Sari is a beautiful way to capture those cherished memories. Available in either a circle or square design, this necklace comes in sterling silver, 14K yellow gold or 14K white gold. You can mark an exact address with a sustainably grown diamond, adding a sparkling touch to this elegant anniversary gift.

Porcelain Floral Vase

Personalized anniversary candle
Photo: Amazon

Since there is no official 26th anniversary flower, you can choose any bloom to mark the occasion—and this floral-inspired vase is the perfect piece to showcase your chosen bouquet. Crafted from porcelain, it features a dozen different flower illustrations and is finished with metallic gold accents. The charming vase makes a delightful 26-year anniversary present for your whimsical spouse.

Personalized Anniversary Candle

Personalized anniversary candle 26th anniversary gift
Photo: paperwhitecandles

After 26 wonderful years of marriage, you really can't imagine life without your partner. This lighthearted candle is a charming way to let your partner know that they're never going to lose you. The candle's label jokes, "Smells like you're stuck with me," and it comes in nine aromatic scents. It'll set the mood for every date night at home.

Couple's Connection Cards

Couple's connection cards 26th anniversary gift
Photo: The Adventure Challenge

With the demands of work and family commitments, it's easy for your date night routine to slip. Rekindle your connection and discover new sides of your partner with The Adventure Challenge's set of connection cards. This deck features a range of prompts designed to spark engaging conversations and create fresh memories together. Conveniently pocket-sized, they can accompany you anywhere—from the car to the park or even on a long-haul flight—ensuring you and your spouse can enjoy meaningful chats whenever and wherever you choose.

Take 20% off your order when you use our exclusive code THEKNOT20.

Silver Picture Frame

Silver photo frame 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Neiman Marcus

Surprise your spouse with your favorite throwback photo presented in this beautiful picture frame. The shiny silver tone features scalloped detailing that'll add an elegant finish to any special snapshot. Whether you fill it with your wedding photo or a more recent image, this 26th anniversary gift is bound to leave your partner smiling.

Embroidered Afghan Blanket

Embroidered afghan blanket 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Personalization Mall

Treat your spouse or a couple to a bedding upgrade via this embroidered blanket featuring a stylish chevron pattern. More than just a cozy throw, it celebrates their marriage milestone with their anniversary details embroidered in one corner for a personal touch. This thoughtful gift offers extra warmth and comfort—a perfect way to mark their enduring love.

Don't forget to use the code KNOT15PM for 15% off your purchase.

Etched Wine Bottle

Etched wine bottle 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Mano's Wine

If you've agreed to keep your anniversary low-key this year, Mano's Wine offers a thoughtful gesture for toasting at home. They offer a variety of intricately etched red wine bottles featuring embossed sentiments like, "Happy Anniversary." Some designs, like this one, even specify the year being celebrated and the couple's names. You won't find anything quite as unique at your local liquor store, making this a 26th anniversary gift idea that truly stands out with its personalized touch and artistic flair.

Monthly Charcuterie Subscription

Monthly charcuterie subscription 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Platterful

Why celebrate your long and loving relationship on just one day of the year? A subscription gift extends the occasion for months to come. One of our favorite subscription boxes for couples is Platterful. This delightful offering brings gourmet charcuterie directly to your doorstep. Each kit features a selection of artisanal meats, cheeses, crackers and accouterments, complete with an instructional sheet and video tutorial on how to expertly display the noms. Simply select a subscription duration and choose between two sizes—large (which feeds six to eight people) or standard (which feeds two to four).

Personalized Ticket To Love Box

Personalized Ticket To Love Box 26th wedding anniversary gifts
Photo: Uncommon Goods

Here's a clever take on those DIY coupon books you're likely familiar with: This wooden box is filled with ten tickets for things like a full-body massage or breakfast in bed that your partner can cash in at will. The front of the box can be personalized with their name for an extra thoughtful finish. Just don't be surprised if they want to trade a ticket for a home-cooked meal to celebrate your 26th anniversary!

Washable Silk Pajamas

Washable silk pajamas 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Lunya

Lunya offers luxurious 26th anniversary gifts for her, him or them that'll level up their beauty sleep. One perfect option is their cami pant set. This elegant set, available in white, pink, blue or black, combines comfort and sophistication with its soft, breathable silk fabric that's easy to care for. Indulgent and thoughtful, the stylish cami and coordinating pants bridge the gap between luxury and practicality.

Chanel Perfume

Chanel perfume 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Chanel

After 26 years of sharing a bathroom, you likely know exactly what perfume they love to wear. Restock their favorite scent for your anniversary to show them how much you cherish these little details. If they don't have a signature scent, feel free to add to their fragrance collection with a bottle of the iconic Chanel No. 5. It has a timeless blend of floral and aldehyde notes with jasmine, vanilla and sandalwood. Not to mention, the chic bottle will be an aesthetic addition to their countertop.

Assorted Cactus Garden

Assorted Cactus Garden 26th wedding anniversary gift
Plants.com

Succulents are having a major moment right now, and it's not hard to see why—these low-maintenance plants look seriously cool, are easy to care for and don't require a ton of space. This assortment of cactus plants comes in a terracotta bowl with a list of instructions on how to care for them. It's a great alternative to flowers as a 26th anniversary gift for anyone who wants to add some greenery to their indoor space.

French Macaron Baking Kit

French Macaron Baking Kit 26th wedding anniversary gift
Photo: Food La La

An edible anniversary gift that doubles up as a fun date-night experience is a clear winner in our eyes. With this French macaron baking kit, you'll receive access to a virtual baking masterclass, plus all the dry ingredients needed to make 24 delectable treats—including powdered sugar, sprinkles and edible metallic paint for decorating. It's a fun and interactive gift that's sure to bring a sweet touch to your 26th anniversary celebrations.

Murder Mystery Jigsaw Puzzle

Murder mystery jigsaw puzzle 26th anniversary gift
Photo: Uncommon Goods

Step into a world of mystery and collaboration with this murder mystery jigsaw puzzle. Guided by a narrative rather than visual clues, this unique gift blends the challenge of a jigsaw puzzle with the thrill of solving a mystery. Just call yourselves Sherlock Holmes and John Watson! This creative 26th anniversary gift will jumpstart another year of excitement as you bond over your clever detective work. (We recommend pairing with some donuts for an easy at-home date idea.)

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