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Throwing a Christmas party doesn’t have to be expensive!
With a little creativity, you can have a festive, fun party without spending too much.
Here’s how to plan an amazing Christmas party on a budget.
Enjoy and don’t forget to comment at the end, I love hearing from you and subscribe to get access to FREE printables, newsletters, the latest posts and more.
Make a Budget and Stick to it
When planning a Christmas party you can easily get lost in all the excitement and chaos and go over budget.
Use my budget planner to make a budget you can stick to.
Pick a Budget-Friendly Date and Time
Hosting your Christmas party in the afternoon or early evening means you can serve snacks instead of a full meal.
This can save a lot of money.
Also, pick a date when friends and family are likely to be free, like a weekend day close to Christmas.
Send Free Invitations
Instead of buying invitations, send digital invites!
Use free apps like Canva (my fave) or Evite to create cute invitations and send them by text or email.
This way, you’ll save money on paper and postage, and everyone can RSVP easily.
DIY Decorations
Decorations can get pricey, but making your own is fun and affordable!
I have a post on Kids Christmas Crafts – but anyone can make these.
Or get the kids to make them.
If you’d prefer to buy them. Try budget stores like B&M or The Range.
Make a Free Christmas Playlist
Music makes any party feel festive, and it’s free!
Create a playlist on a music app like Spotify or YouTube with Christmas classics and fun songs.
Playing music you already have keeps your costs low and sets the mood for fun.
Plan Inexpensive Snacks
Instead of a big meal, serve budget-friendly snacks.
Here are some cheap and easy ideas:
– Popcorn and Pretzels: Set up a bowl of each. Homemade popcorn is cheaper and is fun, quick and easy to make.
Just buy a bag of kernels. Use a large pan with a lid. Add coconut oil in the bottom and pop it on a medium heat for a few minutes.
Then add one or two kernels and wait for them to pop. Once they have popped, turn the heat down and add as many kernels as you wish.
Keep the lid on as when they start popping you don’t want them hitting you in the face.
Don’t forget to shake the pan occasionally to prevent kernels from sticking to the bottom.
Easy. You can add salt, and sugar or keep them plain.
– Cookies and Hot Chocolate: Make a batch of simple cookies, and serve hot chocolate with marshmallows.
– Potluck Style: Ask each guest to bring a small snack to share. This way, you’ll have a variety of treats without spending much.
Plan Fun, Free Activities
You don’t need expensive activities to have fun!
Try these free or cheap ideas:
– Gift Exchange: If everyone brings a small, inexpensive gift (even something funny or handmade!), you can do a Secret Santa.
– Christmas Charades: Write down Christmas words or phrases on pieces of paper and have guests act them out.
– DIY Ornament Craft: Use simple supplies like paper, markers, or even recycled materials for guests to make their own ornaments.
Or just chill and enjoy each other’s company.
Shop Smart
Remember when shopping for tablecloths, dishes and utensils to buy secondhand.
Charity shops are perfect too as lots of people get rid of brand new items that you can snatch up for a few quid.
Facebook marketplace, Vinted and Preworn are my go-to’s.
BYOB
Alcohol is expensive and it could eat up your whole budget.
Instead of providing a full bar, ask guests to bring their favourite drinks.
You can provide mixers like soda, juice, and ice.
If drinks are your thing, you could also create a festive drinks menu.
Bee's Final Thoughts
With these budget-friendly ideas, you can host a wonderful Christmas party without spending too much.
Remember, it’s all about making memories and enjoying the holiday spirit.
Have fun and Merry Christmas!
