20 Cheap and Cheerful Holiday Ideas

You've waited in anticipation for months, and now the wait for the holidays is finally over. It's also traditionally the time of year when most of us will burn a hole in our credit cards.

However, according to a recent Harris/Decima poll conducted for the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) most Canadians plan on spending less this holiday season, especially those living in Atlantic Canada.

Regardless of where you live being cheap and cheerful is in. The holidays are about being with loved ones. They're about the experiences you create, not how much money you spend to create those experiences. So whether you're celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or ringing in the New Year here is a list of 20 cheap and cheerful ideas to keep the season fun even on the smallest of budgets.

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Like this article? Don't miss another one. Follow us on Twitter and Facebook. 1. Packaging is king

I'm not suggesting you hoodwink your loved ones, but try working up the simplest gifts with unique homemade wrapping paper. It's a fun process (the kids can be involved) and you can jazz things up by adding glitter, ribbons, or costume jewelry.

2. International potluck

Food brings people together, and with many people living far away from their next-of-kin having an international-themed potluck Christmas dinner is not only an inexpensive way to share a meal, but it's a fun way to take in the many cultures that make our nation so rich and vibrant.

3. Caroling

You don't have to have the vocal talents of Mariah Carey to sing Christmas carols, so join a choir or create your own and make a joyful noise in your community.

4. Enjoy a holiday meal vicariously through others

If you don't have family to celebrate with and you'd like to make some extra cash over the holidays, promote your culinary services by preparing a holiday meal for others. You could work at restaurant, bar, or at a private family dinner on Christmas Day.

5. Volunteer at a soup kitchen

Provide cheer to those who are struggling by volunteering your services at soup kitchen. Contact your local Salvation Army or community centre to find out how and where you can help.

6. Gift exchange

If you have a large family, shopping can get insanely expensive. Pare things down by having a gift exchange. Simply throw a bunch of names into a hat and set a budget, say $50. By simplifying your Christmas list you will have less people to shop for and no one will be left behind.

7. Cookies-grams

Christmas cookies are like the crowning jewel of the holidays. Organize a group of your foodie friends and bake as many festive cookies as you can. Next, write a cheerful holiday note and attach it to a small bag of an assortment of cookies and give them to someone special.

8. Charitable donations

There are many worthy charities vying for your attention, so you should choose wisely. Look at the organizations annual reports, news releases and check if their goals are in alignment with your values. All registered charities are governed by the CRA and will have a registered charity number, to which will allow you to receive a tax receipt for amounts over $10. If you donate money through your work, always ask for a tax receipt. Check out this link to find out if your charity is registered.

9. Electronic greeting cards

Generally, if you plan on sending something through the mail do it before December 15^th. If you find you can't make this date send an electronic greeting card instead.

10. Make your own greeting cards

Tired of generic greeting cards? Make your own this holiday season. Take a class created by Martha Stewart to learn how it's done.

11. Gift bags

We all have a stash of gift bags from birthdays, corporate and social events hanging around at home. Chances are you have more than you can personally handle, so reuse and repurpose them for someone else. You'll save money and the environment.

12. Second hand items

"Previously loved" items are fabulous gifts to both pick out and receive. Explore the consignment shops and used bookstores around town to find unique and classic treasures.

13. Make your own decorations

Looking for a fun Christmas project? Then, get out your sparkly do-dats, scissors, sequins and felt and create your decorations that you will remember for years to come. Here's some ideas to get you started.

14. Skating

It's a wonderful time of year to go skating outdoors. Many municipalities have free outdoor skating rinks, and if you're up for adventure visit the TD Rink at the Brink in Niagara Falls, Canada and take in the captivating glacial views.

15. Check out the lights

There's something magical about a winter light show. In spite of cold, frigid temperatures the glow of a colourful light show set to upbeat music somehow manages to bring about a warm and fuzzy feeling. Check out these light festivals.


16. Forget the mall and hit the Christmas markets

For those looking for hand craftsmanship, the aroma of roasted chestnuts, and fresh baked goods, the enchanted Christmas fairs and Christmas markets of Germany are a must. Usually, they run from the last week of November to Christmas Eve. Here's a little directory of German-style Christmas markets across Canada.

17. Home sweet gingerbread house

Want a tasty and constructive way to spend the day? Try building a gingerbread house from scratch. It's fun and easy. Give this recipe a try.

18. Make your own snow globe

Snow globes make a great Christmas gift, and kids will fun making their very
own mesmerizing snow globe. Here Martha Stewart shows you how.

19. Pay for it with points

Cash in your reward points this holiday season. Many programs like Aeroplan and Air Miles have great items that would make fantastic Christmas presents. You'll put a smile on someone's face and it will cost you nothing!

20. New Year's Karaoke

You don't have to spend a mint to have a good time at New Year's Eve.
Grab a group of friends and head to a bar that has a karaoke machine or rent one for your house party. To encourage your friends with stage fright, suggest that they sing back up and choose easy to sing songs, and don't forget the gear to set the tone (boas, hats, wigs etc.)

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