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Inexpensive Holiday Activities to Do with Your Military Family 

 

holiday time is the most expensive time of the year and many families overspend on credit cards year after year trying to make sure their loved ones have a perfect holiday. However, there are lots of inexpensive and even free ways to celebrate the holidays, have fun and enjoy the season without adding debt to your life. 

No matter where you live, there are ways to enjoy this winter without the dread of bills coming in January. 

time of year and not dread the bills come January. Here is my list of tried and true free or inexpensive family friendly things to do for the holidays: 

Bake a Holiday Treat

Nothing makes you feel the warmth of the holidays like fresh baked goods. Baking cookies, muffins or cupcakes are an inexpensive way to spend quality time with your family. Want to make a difference in someone else’s holiday? Deliver your homemade goodies to your local police or fire station and thank them for their service. 

Free or Local Community Activities

Local organizations typically put on fun holiday events that the entire family can enjoy. Look in your community for events like “Breakfast with Santa” or “Visit with Santa and Mrs. Clause.” The American Legion is a great place to begin your search. Most towns also offer a holiday parade or community holiday activities like Christmas tree lightings or concerts. Visit your town’s website or local Chamber of Commerce for information on what is scheduled locally. 

The USO

You may consider attending a USO sponsored event. The USO typically ahs tickets for family events to give out thanks to your service member, so if you think these events are too expensive for you to enjoy, it may be worth checking out. 

For Older Children

For older kids you may need to get creative. Put together a Photo Scavenger Hunt. Create a list of things for them to find at your local shopping mall or other community location where they are comfortable, and you are okay letting them run around on their own. Create teams and give everyone an hour to take pictures of everything they can find on the list. The winner will get to pick the family treat or something special that the family can enjoy together. You can also set up a marathon movie night. Give your kids control of the remote for the night and let them choose Christmas movies on Netflix to stream. Make some hot chocolate and gingerbread cookies and wear your warm winter pajamas. 

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