Christmastime: not only is it the most wonderful time of the year (as per Andy Williams’ famed carol), but it’s also one of the most expensive times of the year. For college students who fear the season simply because of all the gifts and decorations they have to buy, you may feel like this:
Look no farther. Here are some ways you can embrace your love for the holidays without breaking your budget.
Decorate your dorm room
For those who live on campus, decorating your home away from home is one of the best ways to celebrate the holidays. Hanging icicle lights on the wall is an instant change for any room, though many people have these lights strung all year round.
In addition, you can find festive and affordable decorations at Target, TJ Maxx, and Michael’s. Wall stickers, miniature Christmas trees and stockings for you and your roommates are all great ways to adorn the room.
Do a Secret Santa gift exchange with your friends
Buying gifts for friends can be challenging and taxing on your bank account. Rather than buy separate gifts for everyone in your friend group, put everyone’s name into a drawing and choose one person to shop for. This way, everyone gets a gift and you can focus your energy on finding one killer present instead of buying several presents.
Have a Christmas movie marathon
What’s a better way to get in the Christmas spirit than by watching all of your favorite Christmas movies? Break out your favorite festive pajamas, make some hot chocolate and settle in and have a marathon of all of your favorite movies.
Have a Christmas cookie bake-off challenge
Undoubtedly, one of the best parts of the holiday season is all of the desserts. Gather a group of people together and have a competition to see who can bake the best cookies. Not only is it a fun way to spend the afternoon, you get to eat all of them afterward. What’s better than that?
Visit New York City
New York City during the holidays is one of the best ways to enjoy the season. Gather a group of friends, embrace your inner tourists, and visit the best festive spots in the city. You can visit the Rockefeller Christmas Tree, go ice skating at Rockefeller Center or Bryant Park, or just check out the extravagant window decorations on 5th Avenue. The opportunities are endless, and there is always something festive and free happening in the city during the holiday season.