Airports around the country are extremely crowded this time of year. And, if you look, around, you’ll find that they’re also full of cheer and helpful services for last-minute shoppers.

San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) celebrated its 75th anniversary with a bounty of baby chicks in the terminal to commemorate the Airport’s inaugural commercial flight in February 1949, which arrived carrying two pilots, seven human passengers and 2,550 baby chickens.
Now – just in time for holiday gift shopping – the line of products SJC made to promote that anniversary are for sale in the airport’s four Hudson retail outlets.
Look for baby chick-themed luggage tags, socks, keychains and an “Ernie” plush toy.
And don’t forget that airport shops everywhere are great places to look for last-minute holiday gifts.

Free Gift Wrapping
If you’re traveling with holiday gifts, TSA may ask you to unwrap some of them if the screening machines can’t get a look inside.
That’s why TSA suggests you not wrap your gifts until you get through the security checkpoint or until you’re at your destination.
Look for the gift wrapping stations at many airports around the country. The service is usually free, with donations accepted for local charities.
A gift-wrapping station benefiting USO Northwest is available by donation for last-minute convenience. Need a host gift or stocking stuffers? TSA advises not to wrap gifts prior to traveling through security. pic.twitter.com/X0n3BNbY75
— Seattle-Tacoma Intl. Airport (@flySEA) December 22, 2024
Elf on an airport shelf. And by the geothermal pipes.
Several airports around the country are having fun times with their version of the elf on a shelf.
This elf is watching over the @TSA checkpoint at @EWRairport to see whose carry-on bag is naughty or nice. Please make sure you don’t have any prohibited items in your bag or he’ll mark you down as naughty. pic.twitter.com/1HztGqIEtw
— TSA Northeast (@TSA_Northeast) December 18, 2024
🚿🎄 Jingle Jet and Pixie Pilot are getting into the holiday spirit in the most refreshing way possible—by taking a shower in the Hydration Station! Who knew elves needed hydration too? 💧✨
— FlyLouisville (SDF) (@FlyLouisville) December 21, 2024
Stay tuned for more of their magical antics! 🎁💫 #flyLouisville #ElvesatSDF pic.twitter.com/ini4yDQkOl
🌍🎄 Jingle Jet and Pixie Pilot are getting really into the holiday spirit—by playing on the geothermal pipes! 🛠️❄️ Who knew geothermal energy could double as a winter wonderland for elves on the go? 🎁 Keep your eyes peeled for their next adventure. #flyLouisville #ElvesatSDF pic.twitter.com/ZB77JpS8dm
— FlyLouisville (SDF) (@FlyLouisville) December 22, 2024
Lots of live music
It may be canned holiday music playing in the airport. But this time of year, it’s often live.
✨ Holiday vibes, live music, and local talent! Enjoy the festive sounds of the season while you travel. 🎤#FlyBHM #HolidayTravel pic.twitter.com/y6f7G63iyB
— Shuttlesworth Int'l (@BHMAirport) December 22, 2024
Relax with Airport Art Exhibits
If you’re at the airport early, don’t just sit at the gate. Airports have some great art and history exhibits.
Located pre-security in the Sky Gallery near the JAX Stage, check out @southwestair’s new exhibit featuring their award-winning program, “Repurpose With Purpose”. Donating pallets of used leather from airplane seats, Southwest partnered with multiple nonprofit organizations to… pic.twitter.com/2cM4PFYe6D
— JAXairport (@JAXairport) December 21, 2024
And Holiday Decor
SLC's holiday decorations are SLEIGHING 🛷🎄
— Salt Lake City Airport (@slcairport) December 21, 2024
Watch this video to learn some fun facts about our holiday decor.
Along with our beautiful decorations, SLC will have some special guests this week… holiday performers and SANTA! pic.twitter.com/1XhpfbWCbF