It's that time of year again. Finals are over, the temperature is dropping (well, occasionally) and Christmas is only a few short days away. With trying to find that perfect gift, decorating, cookies, preparing the big Christmas day meal and everything in between, the Christmas season can be quite a busy one. Unfortunately, not everyone has the money to do Christmas activities or even buy presents for their families. Luckily for them, however, there are plenty of activities you can do for little or no money during the season to maintain your holiday spirit and have some fun. Here are just a few.
1. Looking at Christmas lights.
One family tradition that I've always loved and will continue to love no matter how old I get is driving around looking at Christmas lights. I love Christmas lights, because they are so pretty and offer a nice change from the usual similarity of neighborhoods. Couple them with dogs dressed like Santa Clause, shivering snow men, and thousands of other possibilities, and it's all just so interesting.
What always wows me the most is people that put on full-out shows with their lights paired with music. It amazes me how creative and dedicated people are to have the time to put these awesome shows together, especially since they usually do three or more songs at a time. The best part is that even after all of the effort people put in to doing these things, they never ask for donations or anything. They’re just passionate about the holidays and want everyone to share their enjoyment of Christmas through the entertainment they provided.
2. Christmas movies.
No need to leave your house to have fun this season. All you really need to do is grab your favorite cozy blanket, maybe a cup of your favorite hot beverage and some cookies, and you can have yourself a nice little Christmas movie marathon. (I personally recommend "Elf" and "The Polar Express," but no matter what you choose you’re bound to have a great time.) Don’t have very many Christmas movies? Try ABC Family’s 25 days of Christmas, or try looking some up online. Call up your friends, make it a family night, or just make it a nice relaxation before bed activity, and you’ll be set for a cozy, enjoyable night in.
3. Christmas cookies.
This one will cost a little money, but can be done pretty cheap if you find the right recipes. Something as simple as baking can provide fun for all involved. Not only can baking be fun, but the end result is also delicious, especially if you get the job of taste-tester for the dough and don’t have to wait for the oven to be done.
4. Christmas music dance party.
This one can happen during the cookie baking, in the car, or just while you’re hanging out with nothing else to do. Call up some friends, turn on a Christmas Pandora station, YouTube playlist, or whatever other way you get your music and just jam out. I mean, chances are you have lots of jam sessions anyway, and those are always fun, so just maybe throw on an ugly Christmas sweater and turn it into a holiday event.
No matter what you do to have fun this holiday season, just remember that the Christmas season isn’t about who does the most things, or who gets the most extravagant gifts. All that matters is that you’re spending time with those that you care about most. Material goods will always be here, but you won’t always have the opportunity to spend time and make precious memories with your loved ones. Later in life, you’ll appreciate the fact that you have those memories to look back on. Happy holidays.
