Seven ways to spend less and have a more memorable holiday with your kids

But after months of record-high food and gas prices, are you thinking of cutting back on holiday spending this year?

You're not alone. 

Luckily, we're sharing seven easy ways to make the holidays more memorable - and just as magical - for your kids that won't have you reaching for your wallet. 

Make a family holiday bucket list

It can be as practical as enjoying a few low-key things around the house or as off-the-chart adventurous as you like. Best part? A great chance to teach your kids things that money can't buy like being accountable and showing up for the family. Plus, seeing the joy they get out of crossing an item off a list is priceless.

Get outdoors, together. When school's out for the holidays, you know the drill. Let your kids burn off some energy by spending time with them outside. If you feel like venturing away from home, there's no shortage of budget-friendly outdoor activities in and around the city: skating rinks, toboggan hills, or even roasting marshmallows over a roaring fire pit. S'mores, anyone? Maybe try something new as a family like a ski lesson, or go snowmobiling to experience something epic. It's quality time you can't put a price on.

Become a local tourist

Gather up the troops and go on a holiday light sightseeing extravaganza. Drive-thru light displays are still popular since the pandemic, but if you want a cost-free outing, look no further than your own neighbourhood. Keep things festive with holiday tunes and don't forget the hot chocolate!

Make movie nights magical

Going out to the movies is always fun, but the cost of tickets and snacks can quickly add up. Bright side? Watching your favourite festive flicks at home is money well saved because it buys you more time with your loved ones. And often the little things create the most memorable moments like letting the kids stay up late or camp outs in the living room.

Get back to basics in the kitchen

Who doesn't love takeout? But if you want to minimize costs and maximize quality time, try cooking a family's favourite dish or baking together. In fact, some perfect-for-the-holidays cookie recipes call for essential ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. And for those holiday movie marathons, try making popcorn the old-fashioned way. Bonus: the best conversations are often had hanging out in the kitchen.

Get crafty

Making gifts for friends and family can help you save big during the holidays and comes with an even bigger pay-off for your kids: shows them the true spirit of the season. If you have older kids at home, get them on board with a scavenger hunt or a race to find odds and ends kicking around the house. Multi-coloured, jingle bell tube socks with sparkly pom poms, why not?

Start a new family tradition

It doesn't have to be elaborate. Take a simple concept and watch it take off over time. Something as easy as writing down wishes for the New Year and reading them aloud. Or maybe it’s favourite memories of the year gone by.

When it comes to spending this holiday, less is more.