That budget for presents and holiday fun? Let's just say ... it goes quick!
It's a good time to remember: Holiday fun doesn't have to break the bank.
In fact, with just a little creativity and planning, it's possible to have a magical holiday season, without going into debt.
Here are 12 low-cost, family-friendly ideas to help you create priceless memories this holiday season, without spending a lot of money:
1. Check your Macaroni KID calendar
We had to start with this reminder, of course! Events | Macaroni KID Newington-New Britain-Wethersfield-Berlin
We've got lots of FREE and low-cost family-friendly holiday events listed on our Macaroni KID calendar! Be sure to check the calendar every day to find inexpensive holiday family fun.
 Macaroni KID |
2. Plan a friends night in
Celebrate the season with your friends by inviting them over for a fun meal together. You can plan a full traditional holiday with all the trimmings (have everyone bring a dish!) or simply order a pizza and play games. It's the getting together and making memories that matters.
3. Bake together
Make several kinds of cookies, or just bake and decorate some simple sugar cookies! We won't even tell if you use pre-made cookie dough. After all, no matter how you do it, the end result is cookies warm from the oven and a fun time in the kitchen with your family. Here are some easy holiday cookie recipes to help you get started.
 Imgorthand via Canva |
4. Make your own holiday cards
Make your own cards using recycled card fronts from last year, then spread holiday cheer to those in need by dropping off your homemade cards for the neighbors or at local nursing homes or veterans organizations. Kids love this activity and those who receive cards will appreciate knowing your family is thinking of them!
5. Build a 'gingerbread' house
If you love the standard Gingerbread idea Fantastic! However if you or your kiddos are not a huge fan of Gingerbread? Instead of gingerbread, use graham crackers as your base. Same concept fun idea and lots of fun to decorate!
 MW47 via Canva |
6. Create a fancy hot cocoa bar at home
Let the kids choose their toppings! Ideas to get you started: Marshmallows, peppermint sticks, and whipped cream.
7. Go sledding
Find a nearby hill and spend an afternoon sledding together.
8. Volunteer together
'Tis the season of giving. As a family, pick an activity and volunteer. Need ideas? We got you! Looking for ways to give back this Season? | Macaroni KID Newington-New Britain-Wethersfield-Berlin You can also: Collect food and/or supplies for your local homeless shelter or animal shelter, serve meals to the homeless, or wrap gifts as a fundraiser. Whatever you choose, make it a family affair!
9. See the holiday lights
Pack your family in the car, bring a thermos of hot chocolate, crank up the holiday tunes, and drive around town to see all of the holiday decorations! Can you find the house in town that would put the Griswolds to shame?
 bauhaus1000 via Canva |
10. Binge-watch holiday movies
Snuggle up together with a bowl of popcorn and watch Christmas classics or discover a new favorite!
 Monkey Business Images via Canva |
11. Visit Santa
Because you're never too old to have a chat with St. Nick.
