With Christmas coming up and kids talking about Santa and wishlists, it’s hard to figure out Christmas on a budget. Although many aspects of this holiday are rooted in consumption, there are ways to celebrate frugally! Here are a few ideas for frugal Christmas activities for your whole family.
Thrifty new holiday decorations
You don’t need to break the bank to spruce up your home! Make a day of it and take your family thrift shopping for new holiday decorations. Many Goodwills have entire trees for sale under $20, as well as seasonal clothes, fabrics, ornaments, and more available for a fraction of the retail price. If there aren’t many thrift stores in your area, try checking out online secondhand shopping options like Facebook Marketplace or VarageSale. Consider thrifting pieces of DIY decorations as well, like red ribbons and yarn you can use to make garlands with some oranges or popcorn. Whip out your phone, search Pinterest, and get creative with what you can find as a family!
Take hot cocoa on the road to look at lights
Some neighborhoods may have maps of where lights are, but if you don’t have one, just ask around! Chances are, you know someone who has seen some beautiful displays. Make hot cocoa at home to save money and take it on the road in travel cups to look at the lights around your town. Many downtown areas will have an official Tree Lighting event that is free and open to the public, so if you can make it, go there too! If you don’t have one or it’s already happened, ask around for houses and parks that have decorations up. Bonus points if you bring another family with you!
Rent holiday movies from your library
Libraries are some of the most underutilized public resources we have. Don’t miss out on the free fun this holiday season! Check out what holiday movies your local library has available, curl up with blankets and pillows on the living room floor, and enjoy the classics of the season. This can be especially satisfying after a long day of gift-wrapping or holiday baking. Snuggling up and soaking up the wholesome, inspiring films surrounding Christmas may just be a new holiday favorite!
While this is far from an exhaustive list, these are some great ideas to start you on your way to some fun, frugal Christmas activities for your whole family!
