Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, oh my! How to take the scare out of holiday budgets
The holidays are full of fun, but they also bring unexpected costs that can strain budgets. From candy and costumes to big family dinners and gift-giving, holiday spending can creep up fast, with Americans spending thousands between October and December. However, with smart planning and creativity, you can enjoy the season without letting finances become frightening.
Halloween: Tricks to treat your wallet
Plan by setting a Halloween budget in September, allocating amounts for costumes, decorations, and candy. While Investopedia notes that “saving money can seem like more trouble than it’s worth, given the relatively small sums yielded by trimming expenses by a few dollars a week here and there,” these small Halloween savings add up across multiple holidays. DIY costumes and decorations save money while adding personal touches. Set limits on candy purchases by estimating trick-or-treater numbers. Consider alternative celebrations like free community events or costume swaps.
Drazen Zigic / iStock
Thanksgiving: Feast without fear
Focus on seasonal, on-sale ingredients by shopping weekly ads for turkey and side deals. Embrace potluck-style celebrations where guests contribute dishes. Plan for leftovers to stretch your dollar. Shop early to avoid last-minute splurges when prices are higher.
Christmas: Gifts and glam without guilt
Set realistic spending limits per person and stick to them. Try creative gifting like homemade baked goods or experience gifts. Take advantage of Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. Track spending with a spreadsheet or app to avoid overspending.
Strategies across all holidays
Start a holiday fund early in the year, saving monthly to spread costs. Use cash instead of credit to limit overspending. Reuse decorations, gift wrap, and cards year after year. Communicate openly with family about spending limits.
Conclusion
Holidays do not have to be financially scary. Planning, creativity, and mindfulness make holidays joyful and stress-free. Start your holiday budget today and enjoy the season without fear.
Related:
- 17 spooky Halloween cakes that’ll give you goosebumps
- The best Halloween TV specials & where to stream them
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