Holiday Parties on a Budget

If you’ve ever wanted to host a holiday get together but worried about the cost…you’re not alone. Between the food, décor, gifts, and entertainment, the price can add up fast. But creating a fun holiday party with family and friends doesn’t need to come with a high price tag. Here are some things I’m doing for my holiday party this year that is keeping things low-cost.

Do Food Potluck-Style

One person carrying the whole menu can not only be expensive, but it can also be overwhelming to make sure everything gets done on time. A potluck is such an easy way to save money and helps your guests feel like they’re helping. And look…we all have that one friend who maybe, probably, definitely can’t cook, but that’s when you ask them to bring the drinks!

Use What You Already Have…or Make it!

I find myself scrolling through TikTok and Pinterest every holiday season looking for budget-friendly ideas, and honestly they’re absolute gold-mines. There are so many DIY and low-cost hacks that can keep your budget down, and your décor viral-worthy.

Before buying anything new, take stock of what you already have. It doesn’t even need to be considered “holiday themed.” Have a candle? Throw some ribbon around it and boom! Holiday candle. Create centerpieces by throwing some ornaments into a glass vase. Have some fairy lights? Throw those in too! When was the last time you made a paper snowflake?  

A little creativity (and a few TikTok hacks) can make your space feel festive without spending much at all.

Secret Santa or White Elephant = Low-Cost Gift Giving

If you’re like me, you absolutely love buying gifts for everyone. It’s a love-language, okay? But, buying individual gifts for everyone adds up quickly.  

This year, I decided to go with a White Elephant gift exchange with a budget of $25. Honestly though, you could set your budget to whatever amount you and your guests are comfortable with. The point is, a Secret Santa or White Elephant means you’re only buying one gift, and it’s with a budget.

Entertainment

Keeping your guests entertained can be a big stressor, but it doesn’t have to cost you anything. You can pull out board games or card games you already own, or stream a holiday movie or show from a streaming platform you already pay for.

There are also tons of free game ideas online. I’m actually planning a Holiday Family Feud and Jeopardy this year using questions and facts I found online for free. (Thanks again Pinterest and TikTok.) Trivia, charades, Pictionary, scavenger hunts….there are so many no-cost options that keep the night fun and budget-friendly.

Planning a party of any kind is already stressful enough, you don’t need to add the stress of not being able to afford one too. In the end, the only important thing is that you have fun and that you surround yourself with the people who make you happy.

*Mention of any companies or products in this post does not constitute an endorsement by Ancorum Credit Union.