There are many average and run-of-the-mill gift ideas out there, but neon-based items are definitely different and memorable. Different adaptations to neon and LED light technology over the years have paved the way for some really fun and head-turning presents.

The most popular form of neon gift would be the neon or LED sign. Neon signs come in all different shapes, sizes, and brands. There are patriotic signs for your country, signs for bars and restaurants, signs for states, cities and towns, signs for sports, drinks, hobbies, cars, games, you name it. The subjects are almost limitless. There is a large interest in Route 66 neons and classic cars and diners. The vintage appeal is great and they can be hung anywhere. Neon signs can be expensively priced into the hundreds or thousands of dollars, but you can find many good signs for under $50.

Neon clocks are also great ideas. Clocks look better in bedrooms, gamerooms, and dens, and like neon signs, they come in a large variety of themes. There are billiards, automobiles, company logos, drinks, card games, sports players, sports teams, locations, etc. Some are just plain clocks with simple hour and minute hands, but have a really bright single or double ring neon border.

Neon posters are newer to the lighted gift scene and are very fun and different. These are the posters or painting murals that contain actual lights inside of the scene. Dark sky scenes are lit with neon or LED lightening bolts and stars. Or diners are lit up at night with miniature neon signs and the car headlights glow as well. 50's and 60's Hollywood posters are popular, as are nostalgic bar scenes. There are also "moving" 3D neon posters with rotating backgrounds such as those popular waterfall pictures you've probably seen.

Neon stands, or sculptures. These are neon or LED tubes twisted onto a display stand that sits on desks or tables. The biggest difference between these and regular neon signs is that they are mobile, not mounted onto walls. They are generally cheaper than neon signs, but just as beautiful, especially in the pitch dark. The designs are just as varied as the others, also including animals, holidays, personal messages, companies, etc. These are similar to neon lamps, another great idea.

There are also hand-held neon items such as sports clubs and glowing hands, neon cell phone attachments, glow sticks, glow rings, and other glow jewelry. Other small items include neon colored latex balloons and other party decoration items. Flexible neon light tubes are great for outdoor decorations and are very durable. Other gifts that are not actually made of neon, but still have the glowing neon text include t-shirts, mugs, ties, keychains, calendars, and other smaller items. Neon aquariums with moving fish are pretty neat, though for some reason they lose their excitement sooner.

No neon gift list would be complete without underbody auto light kits. These are the cool looking neon lights that glow underneath cars, trucks, and motorcycles. They make neon door handle kits, headlights, side lights, steering wheel kits, and wheel light kits as well. Basically, if you want anything on your car lit up, they make it, with either neon or LED.

This is just a small list of cool items made from neon. Most of these items are very afforded, many customizable as well. These are ideal gifts for sports fans and business owners, but there is always something available for a neon lover of any interest.

JL Willings writes about different neon bar signs, including Budweiser neon bar signs.