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! 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 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
Host a "gingerbread" architecture contest. Instead of gingerbread, use graham crackers as the base. This annual tradition is sure to be a family favorite and will a time to be creative, silly, and have fun together as a family. See how to do it — plus pictures of some fun creations!
 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. Only in Southern California can we go "visit the snow" for a day!
Head up the mountain to the local ski slopes to have some fun in the snow. Most ski resorts have tubbing or snow play available for families!
Bear Mountain Resort, Snow Valley & Snow Summit are NOW OPEN!
Mt. Baldy is projected to open December 1st.
Mountain High is projected to open December 1st.
8. Volunteer together
'Tis the season of giving. As a family, pick an activity and volunteer. Need ideas? Here are three to help you get started:
- Collect food and/or supplies for your local homeless shelter or animal shelter
- Serve meals to the homeless
- Help donate or wrap gifts for a local non-profit, Warrior for Children.
Whatever you choose, do it as a family!
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. Go caroling
Gather family and friends for a caroling party! Go door to door in your neighborhood to spread all of that holiday cheer.
11. 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 |
12. Visit Santa
Because you're never too old to have a chat with St. Nick. See him for FREE and get a FREE 4x6 picture, video of the visit & kid craft at Bass Pro Shops, Rancho Cucamonga.
