Save money with inexpensive Christmas traditions

Sometimes starting new traditions can alleviate the frustration over not being able (or deciding not to) spend as much on your holidays celebrations as you usually do. This year consider all the creative and cost effective traditions you can share with your loved ones.

Following are some ideas we hope will inspire you.

String popcorn

Sure you’ve heard about it but have you ever done it? Try it. It can really be a great family bonding activity.

Hold a cookie party

Take the afternoon and bake some cookies with the kids. Make some with holes (use straw ends in the uncooked dough) and ribbons (or yarn) for decorating the tree.

Watch a holiday program on TV

Sure, the kids may have watched the original Charlie Brown’s Christmas or The Grinch Who Stole Christmas dozens of times but how many times have you actually sat down and enjoyed these classics together. Check out your local listings and make a plan to sit down and view some holiday specials as a family.

Rent a holiday classic

Treat your kids and yourself to a real movie experience with a B&W classic like It’s a Wonderful Life or the original Miracle on 34th Street. The kid’s may have seen the remake but rent the original to give them an appreciation of both versions. Pop some corn and sit back and enjoy. Check out the DVD collection at your local library. Chances are good they will have a good selection of holiday classics on the shelf.

Attend a community tree-lighting ceremony

If your community has an annual tree-lighting ceremony take the kids even if it’s past their bedtimes – after all this is a once a year event. If there is carolling afterwards, stay for that too. There is nothing better than a few Christmas carols to get you in the spirit of the season.

Go to church

Even if your family aren’t regular church goers you shouldn’t miss the sense of community and true meaning of the season by staying at home. Candlelight services in particular, can really warm the soul and renew one’s faith.

Help others

True unselfish giving comes not from the pocketbook but from inside you. Help serve turkey and stuffing at a local shelter. Get the whole family involved.