By Sylvie Tremblay
The festivities will have a unique flavour due to the pandemic this year. But with these economic tricks, there is no reason to give up the festivities.
The COVID-19 pandemic has touched many aspects of our lives, from health to finances. It did not take long to turn our daily lives upside down, and it will not be without effect on the Holidays. But that’s no reason to cancel the festivities!
Maybe you have a new “lockdown budget,” or perhaps you’re just paying more attention to your spending. Whatever your situation, there are many savings to be had without sacrificing holiday cheer.
In fact, with simple changes, you can create new holiday traditions on a budget. Put these tips into practise to make the most of your quality time at home this year.
- Set price limits and get creative with giveaways
It’s a safe bet that gifts will be the most significant holiday expense this year. The best way to stick to your budget is to set limits with your friends and family.
Have you already agreed on a maximum price? Great! Now get the most out of your budget by making your gifts.
Five clever ways to do more with your holiday budget
You have a little creativity and work and a whole range of possibilities there. You can, for example:
dyeing and sewing cotton fabric into napkins;
make your lip balms, body scrubs, or hair care products for a feel-good gift;
prepare homemade granola;
buy mason jars and fill them with cookies, brownies or soup mixes to give away.
- Save on electricity and make your decorations
It’s decorating season! To avoid skyrocketing your electricity bill, forget about excessive lighting. Stick to tree lights, and set the mood with homemade decorations.
Think of the crafts of yesteryear, like popcorn and cranberry garlands. For a stained glass effect, dry thin slices of orange in the oven and hang them in the window.
You can also decorate your tree with salt dough decorations. All you need is flour, salt, cookie moulds, and glitter or paint on the material side. This is the perfect affordable holiday DIY!
- Celebrate while respecting physical distancing
This year, the festivities will be slightly different due to the pandemic. Try to limit yourself to a small number of guests from your social circle. And be sure to follow government recommendations on maintaining physical distancing when gathering.
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Even if you only see a handful of people over the holidays, there’s plenty to enjoy. Economic winter activities abound!
For example, you can build a family of snowmen in front of your house with your loved ones. Here is another free decoration idea! Then, a neighbourhood tour is essential: will the neighbours have followed your example?
It is still possible to see people without running any risk. For example, you can rent snowshoes or skis for a local getaway that won’t break the bank. Another option: borrow a book on nature or ornithology from the library, and go on a winter hike.
Finally, it’s time for a bit of family fun at home. You can prepare a counter where everyone helps themselves according to their whims. Hot chocolate, marshmallows, chocolate chips, flavour extracts (e.g. orange, mint, raspberry), and you’re done! Then, get cosy in front of your favourite movie for a holiday movie night.
- Whip up a low-cost holiday dinner
It’s the perfect time to try new ways to celebrate on a budget.
One way you can cut costs is by hosting a potluck. Or maybe the overpriced turkey would substitute nicely for more affordable dishes. Beef stew, for example! This tender and comforting dish is made with inexpensive cuts of meat. There is also the option of roasting breasts rather than a whole turkey.
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This year’s Holidays will deviate from tradition, but let’s see it as an opportunity to make discoveries! And whatever your budget, it will always be possible to spend unforgettable and joyful holidays.
