People who are financially strapped may find that the entertainment budget is the first to go, but the Christmas season lends itself to a wide variety of options for lost cost and fun family activities. Many free and fun holiday ideas are readily available to help make the Christmas season enjoyable despite a lack of funds.
Enjoy Christmas Decorations in Other People’s Yards
Pack the kids in the car, tune the radio to a station playing Christmas music, and let the neighbors foot the light bill. Many people have simple to elaborate Christmas decorations in their yards. Sometimes an entire community will put on a light show, such as McAddenville, North Carolina. Let the kids vote on their favorite light show or take turns picking the route. Kids can even work on skills such as counting and navigation along the way.
Free Christmas Enjoyment in Stores and Malls
If a mall is nearby, it is certain to have halls decked for the holidays. Kids and adults can enjoy window shopping and seeing various lights, plants, and figures of the season. Some stores, like Lowe’s, may offer free Christmas crafts, and other shopping areas may offer special music programs for free. Christmas aromas may be accompanied by free samples of tantalizing treats during the holiday season as well.
Look for Free Local Christmas Activities
The local Chamber of Commerce, local newspapers, and online announcements may offer a list of Christmas-related free activities. The public library often has a great selection of Christmas books, music, activities, and more. These may be enjoyed by the entire family during special times at home. Area churches may offer free programs including plays, musicals, live nativities, communion, or special meals. Schools may have Christmas-related programs open to the general public as well.
Many families discover that they enjoy helping others during the holidays. Check local shelters, Red Cross, Salvation Army, etc, for volunteer opportunities.
Free Christmas Ideas on the World Wide Web
Whether surfing the net at home or in a public library for free, the internet offers a wide variety of entertaining Christmas sights, sounds, and activities. Play an online game, send an online letter to Santa, create a Christmas craft or artwork, learn the history of various Christmas traditions, see amazing Christmas decorations … the list goes on. Search engines can produce a wealth of Christmas fun and information. It is helpful to screen web sites before having the kids to join in the fun to avoid long lag times and inappropriate content.
People who are out of work may find that they can use the extra time to make handmade gifts and ornaments, bake special treats, learn to play Christmas music on an instrument, enjoy the beauty of nature in a season that is usually rushed and frantic, and have one-on-one time with their children.
Bartering for Christmas Fun
Some places offering Christmas entertainment at a charge may be willing to barter. Those who have the opportunity to volunteer time or services may find that they can work a deal to get the family in for free or at a discount. It helps to communicate well ahead of time and to be clear on expectations from both parties.
Free Options for Family Christmas Entertainment
Fun family activities during the Christmas holiday season do not have to have a high price tag. Many families find that they prefer a more simple approach to the holidays and throughout the year. By doing a little research and pre-planning, many families can enjoy free or inexpensive kid-friendly Christmas entertainment that can create lasting cherished memories.
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Katrena Wells - Katrena Wells is a RN in NC with 17 1/2 years of experience in oncology, an educator since 1995, and has taught exercise classes since ...
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