Inexpensive Holiday Activities for Families

Posted by Natasha on November 9th, 2019

Although the holiday season can seem synonymous with spending money, there are many inexpensive ways to have fun this holiday season. Discover these inexpensive things to do with your family this Christmas!

Almost every town has a free holiday parade. Check your local newspaper or town events listing online to find out when your town’s parade is occurring! Pack your own snacks and hot chocolate or hot apple cider in a thermos to avoid the temptation to buy overpriced treats from street vendors. Many towns also have a community tree lighting ceremony with free entertainment like a concert or vocal performances. These two events are typically on different days, which means you have two evenings of free holiday fun to enjoy with your family. 

If you’re throwing a holiday party, or just want to have a family fun night at home, don’t feel obliged to buy supplies for elaborate party games. Instead, grab a free printable Christmas party game to play with your family and friends! 

Many mall and department store Santa photos cost quite a bit, so keep an eye out for any free Santa opportunities in your area. Bass Pro Shops, for example, offer a free photo with Santa. Cabelas is owned by Bass Pro Shop, so check with them, too, if you have a location nearby. Other free Santa photo opportunities may be available in your area - do a search on the web and keep an eye on your local newspaper. If you have a special needs child, ask your support group or your case worker if there are any free events specially designed for special needs children. Local businesses, town halls, libraries, and even police stations sometimes have free opportunities to meet Santa. 

Crafting your own Christmas decorations from basic, inexpensive materials is a great way to spend quality time with your children while getting into the holiday spirit. Grab some paper or cardstock, scissors, glue, and glitter and whip up a bunch of paper snowflakes or snowmen! Not sure about your ability to draw and cut a circle for your snowmen? Just grab a printable snowman template. 

If you attend a church, they will probably have free or low cost activities during the holiday season. Many churches have an Advent wreath making party, for example. Your children may be able to participate in a Christmas pageant or living nativity scene, too.  

If your town doesn’t have an affordable lights display, hop in the car with some snacks and drive around after dark to sightsee. Many towns have a street that’s known for going all-out with Christmas decorations. See if you can find that street in your town! Some neighborhood holiday displays are so popular they even have special light shows, music, and other activities on weekend nights. 

The holiday season should be about making memories and cherishing traditions with your family, not stressing over maxed out credit cards. Try some of these cheap holiday activities this year!