by Kristina Nelson

Created on: September 23, 2011

Religion and beliefs, may or may not be, a key as to how Christmas is celebrated in homes today.  Celebrating Christmas during a recession can be done in several variations, regardless.

The Christian faith puts emphasis on the birth of Christ.  To decorate on a budget, without spending extra cash, could involve simply setting up a handmade manger with baby Jesus. Gifts may not be as important as giving homage to the birth of Jesus.

Decorating for Christmas can be done on a budget, and still display holiday cheer.  Reuse decorations from past years, or make them yourself, using inexpensive supplies. Shopping for decorations at thrift stores is also an option.  Music is not often thought of as a decorating tool; however it is another inexpensive way to add cheer to a room during Christmas.

Spend less money on gift giving, when and if, gifts are exchanged.  Make homemade gifts, baked or handmade, in place of purchased gifts.  Offer services in place of a physical gift.  Avoid buying gift wrap, ribbon, bows and tags.  Instead, simply use newspaper to wrap gifts with, reuse scrap strings and hand make cards from recycled materials.  Strings can be saved from animal feed bags throughout the year, and used to tie gifts closed, in place of buying clear tape.

Gift giving can easily get out of control, especially if you have young children in school.  Instead of buying for every single person, simply write each person a thank you note.  Recent years of gift giving may leave you feeling guilty for not buying gifts.  Do not let guilt make you spend money that you do not have.

Barter for gift giving items or services.  Consider your talents and exchange with someone who has different talents.  For example, barter home canned goods for needlework or carpentry work.  Ask around your neighborhood, at work, at church and within schools.  A person who is a bee keeper may consider bartering honey for something that you make or do.

Cut back on Christmas baking and cooking, during a recession.  Make a list of the most special treats, and skip making the others.  Buy in bulk, stock up during sales, and only buy necessary supplies. Avoid buying disposable dinnerware and use the dishes you have.  Borrow items from friends and family.  Host a cookie exchange before Christmas to increase your supply of baked goods.

These are simple and economical ways to celebrate Christmas during a recession.  Do not spend what you do not have, and do not use credit cards.  Avoid any additional debt, and stay focused on a limit of what you are able to spend, if you are spending money at all. 

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