Welcome to the Christmas season! A time of year that is filled with so much celebration and joy that it can quickly become an overly busy and expensive season. While I love and cherish the holiday season, this year I’m on a mission to enjoy holiday celebrations that don’t break the bank (#singleincomefornow). And, you can join me!
3 Holiday Celebrations that Don’t Break the Bank
Every year, I find myself searching for creative ways to celebrate the holidays without breaking the bank. We have so much STUFF. After all, with a family of my own and two extended families, holiday gifts can quickly add up. You know what I mean?
This year, I decided to do a little brainstorming to figure out the best holiday celebrations that don’t break the bank. Here’s what I came up with:
- Experiences
The older (and wiser) I get, the more I’ve learned to appreciate experiences with my family above any kind of materialistic gift. And chances are, no matter where you live, there is not a short supply of Christmas experiences to enjoy this year! Here are a few ideas to look into:
- Santa or Light Shows- Many larger hotels do a free Christmas tree lighting celebration every year.
- Local Christmas Attractions- Common attractions include a Santa wonderland or Christmas tree farm.
- Neighborhood Christmas Lights- Drive around local neighborhoods to scout out the best Christmas lights. Pour some warm cider or drink of your choice to take with.
- Game Night- Host friends or family for a Christmas game night and have everyone bring their favorite snack or drink.
- Nutcracker- Many cities put on their own Nutcracker show, which is a festive family-friendly event.
- Ice Skating- Depending where you live, you can likely find indoor or outdoor ice skating rinks. Even in California!
The opportunity for Christmas experiences are endless this time of year. And, it shouldn’t be too hard to find an event everyone will enjoy.
- Stocking Stuffers Only
Instead of splurging on large, expensive gifts for the whole family, try sticking to only stocking stuffers. While you can still spend a pretty penny on small stocking stuffer items, possibilities are limited when everything has to fit into a stocking. But, the creativity is endless! Some of my favorite stocking stuffers include:
- Jewelry- love costume jewelry from Uncommon James or Bauble Bar
- Socks or underwear- found some that you can put a baby’s face on for C this year!
- Gum, chocolate, candy- Sees Candy is Chris’ favorite
- Gift cards
- Ornaments- this is a MUST for us every year. We look far and wide to find the best ornaments from memorable places we have been or want to go
- Spending Limits
When it comes to extended family and friends, set spending limits or draw names. This is an easy and enjoyable way to spoil each other without the burden of purchasing a gift for every person. You can even set a theme to make it more creative! Or, opt for a game of White Elephant!
While Christmas is a joyous and festive season, it can definitely be a costly one. This year, incorporate these ideas to make it a holiday season that doesn’t break the bank!
