Nov 28, 2023
1. Try A Potluck-Style Christmas Dinner: Hosting dinner is less expensive and more fun when everyone brings their signature dish.
2. Use leftovers for a second purpose: Gather again with friends and family for a second meal or send leftovers home with each guest.
3. Decorate together: Rather than hiring a service, spend time putting up decorations as a family, with festive music, snacks and more.
4. Host a hot chocolate bar: In lieu of gifts, host a small gathering with a hot chocolate theme. A board game party, movie night or hobby evening could serve the same purpose.
5. Set a price limit for gift exchanges: Whether it’s at the office, with friends or including extending family, outline a price limit for gift-giving. Choosing a theme can help gifts feel more fun and relevant.
6. Plan an outing: Sledding, ice skating, snowman making: So many fun traditions are low-cost.
7. Volunteer at a local nonprofit: Bring friends and family together to host a holiday meal, join in a group effort or coordinate donations for a local charity.
8. Window shop: Enjoy a holiday stroll with a warm beverage and an eye for bargains. If you don’t buy anything, window shopping can add to the holiday spirit with bright displays.
9. Attend a seasonal activity: See our calendar at www.kerncountyfamily.com for local events.
10. Adopt a family for the holidays: Participate with local giving efforts through your church or a Kern County charity to help meet basic needs. Children often learn by doing and fostering a sense of community can happen at the holidays through small efforts like these.
11. Try baking: Baking mix, frosting and sprinkles can yield a low-cost fun time together, especially if you already own cookie cutters and many ingredients.
