Isn’t it wonderful to see snow on the hilltops and feel the excitement of the festive season beginning to build? But, the sad fact for many is this Christmas is set to be a frugal one, thanks to the soaring cost of living.

But we all know that this time of year is about more than lavish parties and piles of presents under the tree. It’s about spending quality time with those we love, appreciating the abundance of wonderful things that surround us and being grateful for another year on planet Earth.

It’s important to remember that our enjoyment of the holidays doesn’t need to be contingent on the state of our bank accounts. There’s plenty we can do to make the most of our time off work and most of it needn’t cost a penny.

We’ve pulled together a list of our 10 favourite things to do for free this festive season below. Let us know what you think. And have a wonderful one yourself.

How about…

  1. Visiting your local town’s Christmas Lights Display? Maybe make a flask of hot chocolate to take with you and enjoy as you wander down the road, taking in the twinkles!
  2. Make a den or grab the blankets and get cosy on the sofa for a Christmas Movie Night. There are lots of films on TV at this time of year. Turn everything off apart from the tree lights and candles and snuggle down for some schmaltz.
  3. Wrap up warm and hit the streets in search of the best-decorated house in your neighbourhood. A Twinkly Treasure Hunt can be done on foot or in the car and is sure to be loved by young and old.
  4. Enjoy a Carol Concert at a nearby church or village hall. There’s nothing like a singalong to herald the arrival of Christmas and they’re usually free to attend. You might even manage to bag a warm mince pie too.
  5. Host a Games Night for family and friends. Ask everyone to bring some snacks and while away a couple of hours battling it out over Cluedo or Trivial Pursuit.
  6. Make Salt Dough Christmas Decorations. This is an activity that always goes down well on a winter’s day. And everything you need is most likely sitting in your kitchen cupboard. Cut your own shapes and add an element of competition into mix. You can see our favourite recipe here.
  7. Pop into your local Garden Centre. Keep warm and enjoy the music, lights and smiling faces.
  8. Make a Christmas music playlist and throw a Christmas Party just for you! Or invite everyone you know and suggest they bring a bottle.
  9. Head out for a Winter Walk. Wait until dusk, grab your torch and enjoy the atmosphere outside. Wearing suitable gear, of course!
  10. Have you seen the recent night skies we’ve been having? Amazing! Tog yourself up and get out in the garden for some epic Star Gazing.