Free And Inexpensive Ways to Celebrate The Holidays
Free And Inexpensive Ways to Celebrate The Holidays
Free And Inexpensive Ways to Celebrate The Holidays
‘Tis the season!
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all of the holiday events on your calendar, you’re probably not alone. You might have a work party or two, holiday team bonding events, happy hour with friends, extended family to see on Christmas, the holiday event you bought tickets for and, to top it off, a neighborhood white elephant exchange. That’s a lot of merry memories to make! All fa la la la fun, but when you put it all together in one month, it’s exhausting on you and your wallet.
You might consider saying ‘no’ to some of the events where a gift is a requirement. Or you could choose not to participate in the white elephant this year. And if you’re looking for inexpensive ways to celebrate the season, these ideas are sure to get you in the spirit.
Drive through neighborhoods to look at Christmas lights.
This is a fun thing to do whether you’re young or old. Snuggle up in your pajamas and slippers. Pack some hot cocoa and get in the car for some light looking. Some communities will feature the best houses for holiday lights, so check your local news page for a holiday light map.
Search on Facebook for free holiday events in your area.
A simple search should get you a list of free holiday events. While the event may charge for food or other activities, try to look for events with free admission.
Walk around a mall and window-shop.
There’s something festive about being at the mall during the holidays. Just because you go to the mall, doesn’t mean you have to buy anything. Go look around and get gift ideas. Then go home and search online for better deals.
Plan a special holiday movie night.
Rather than simply turning on a movie, make it special! Borrow a projector and snuggle up for an outdoor (weather permitting) screening of Home Alone.
Make a hot cocoa bar.
If you’re hosting family or friends at your house, a hot cocoa bar can actually be fairly inexpensive but tons of fun. Arrange bowls of various hot cocoa toppings like candy canes, marshmallows and chocolate chips. Everyone adds what they want to their mug!
Do a decoration swap.
Buying new holiday decorations for your home is fun, but decorations are expensive! Instead, here’s a fun idea…swap holiday decor with friends or family. This way you feel like you have new decorations without having to spend the money. Plus, if you have kids, they’ll think it’s fun and funny.
Skip the wrapping.
Who says you have to wrap gifts? While it is tradition, there are other ways to present a gift without overpriced wrapping paper. Use any leftover wrapping you have at home. Or, simply give it in the box it came in with a note written directly on the box. Easy!
Download: Holiday Gift Tracker
If you need additional help creating and sticking to a holiday budget, I encourage you to download my Holiday Gift Tracker where you can set spending limits and document your holiday gift expenses. The downloadable template also includes an event planner for the week before Christmas along with a contacts tab for when you are ready to send out Christmas cards.
I’ve been using this spreadsheet for years—it’s so helpful when the holiday season starts to get busy. I hope these tips help you stay on budget this year and I can’t wait for you to start planning and organizing!
