This holiday season is looking a lot different from years past.
That means no cross-country trips to visit the grandparents or crowding the malls to sit on Santas lap.
No holiday work parties or big Secret Santa gift exchanges.
The holidays aren’t the only opportunity to throw a party. Read how TPH editor Robin Hartillcelebrated her 37th birthday virtuallynear the start of the pandemic.
But more than ever, we could use a little Christmas joy.
Consider these five affordable ways to celebrate the holidays this year.
Drop-Off Cookie Exchanges
Cookie exchanges are typically just another excuse for a holiday party only with more sugar.
Instead of joining together for a cookie exchange this year, plan to do a drop-off version.
Coordinate delivery times with your cookie-baking friends so theyll know when to expect their sweet package.
No Interest Til Almost 2027?
ensure to serve plenty of hot cocoa.
This is also a super affordable activity.
And video streaming services have made it easy for people in different households to watch together.
There are also third-party services that synchronize your streaming with friends.
Engage party guests with interactive games like Pictionary, charades or holiday-themed trivia.
You might plan to do an activity together like cookie decorating or building a gingerbread house from a kit.
Or perhaps you could take turns singing Christmas carols or showing off your favorite ornaments from your tree.
So gather up your art supplies and tackle some craft projects at home.
The arts and craft chain Michaels is offeringfree kids online workshops.
Nicole Dow is a senior writer at The Penny Hoarder.
(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)
You know which ones were talking about: rent, utilities, cell phone bill, insurance, groceries…
