Some years are harder than others. While it may be tempting to mope around the house about having no money for the holidays, you don’t have to. There are ways to enjoy the holidays without having any money.
Whether you spend time remembering the reason for the season or find ways to keep your family entertained for free, you can survive Christmas with no money.
Remember the Reason for the Season
Christmas is about so much more than gifts and Christmas parties. Whatever reason you celebrate Christmas, take time to think and focus on that. Think about your loved ones, your religion, whatever reason you celebrate the holiday season.
If you’re a religious person, sit down with the family and read the Christmas story. Talk about what the holiday really means.
Use What You Have
You don’t have to purchase new decorations each year. Chances are you have more than enough decorations in your attic or basement. Bring it all out and spend a weekend decorating with your family while playing Christmas music in the background.
You could even make your own Christmas decorations using items from around the house. Raid your craft supplies and see what you can make.
Look for Special Promotions
Sometimes companies run special promotions during the holiday season. For example, grocery stores sometimes give out gift certificates when you spend so much money each week. You’re going to have to buy groceries so why not take advantage of these offers?
Also check rebate companies for special offers. For example, this year, Ibotta paired up with Walmart to give away free Thanksgiving dinners.
Find Free Ways to Be Entertained
There are so many ways to stay entertained during the holidays without spending money. For example, you can walk around your neighborhood and look at Christmas lights. You can stream Christmas movies through free streaming services. There are usually school and church plays you can attend for free. Look through local Facebook groups and see what’s happening in your area.
Get Help, If Needed
Last, but not least, if you have little ones and want to do something for them, get help through your local department of social services. You can also contact Toys for Tots or reach out to local churches. Do be aware that the sooner you reach out, the better. These programs get flooded with requests and there is only so much help to go around.
It can be hard to go into the holiday season without money to spend on the extras. However, being low on funds gives you the chance to look at what’s really important. Don’t think of this as a loss, but a time to reconnect.
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