Festive Fun with Friends – on a Budget
By: Aiden Bengds
‘Tis the season to enjoy time with friends and family! School is out, and you have much more time to do whatever you want! But there’s just one thing holding you back from enjoying your Christmas break to its fullest – your wallet. As college students, balancing school and work can be difficult, which means most of us don’t have a lot of extra money to spend on holiday activities with friends or other seasonal festivities. But, you don’t have to spend money to show you care! I’m excited to share a few fun, low-cost ideas you can do with your friends and family this Christmas season.
Baking
A fun and delicious way to celebrate the holiday season with your loved ones is by baking fun treats! All you need are a few inexpensive ingredients from the store (some of which you may already have) and a kitchen. There are so many options – from your classic Christmas cookie to tree-shaped cupcakes. You can also spice things up by making it into a competition. See who the best cookie decorator is in your group or vote on the best dessert made by each participant. If you can get 4 or more friends involved, strategically shop for ingredients, and split the cost, the baking ingredients/supplies can cost less than $5 each!
- Download a fun recipe to make four different types of Christmas Cookies.
- For those who aren’t measuring connoisseurs, buy pre-made cookie dough.
Caroling
“The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” -Buddy the Elf. While caroling may not be for everyone, singing in a group together can be a lot of fun! For some people, the holiday season is a lonely time, but a group of carolers at their door is a sure way to bring them joy. Many assisted living homes love having carolers come and sing to their residences. If you and your friends love to sing, consider caroling this Christmas to spread joy to your neighbors and others in your community at no cost to you. Below is a list of local Lynchburg retirement facilities to contact.
Skating
Looking to do something a little more active? Try ice skating! While there might be a learning curve, it can be so much fun. If you’re staying in Lynchburg for break, head over to the LaHaye Ice Center! They have days when the rink is open to the public and for students. Admission and skate rentals are free. Learn more about LaHaye Ice Rinks.
Watch a Christmas movie
One of my personal favorite Christmas activities is to make hot cocoa and watch a good Christmas movie. In a world of streaming services, you don’t have to look far to find a plethora of good Christmas movies. Personally, I recommend the Polar Express or Elf. If you enjoy going to the theaters, many movie theaters play Christmas movies at a discounted price.
Spending time with family and friends this Christmas doesn’t have to break the bank! Go out and have fun with these low-cost Christmas activities! Remember, Christmas is all about celebrating the birth of Jesus and taking time to appreciate everything and everyone He has blessed us with.
