Blogmas Day 12: Free and Cheap things to do for Christmas!

 If you have kids or grandkids, here are a few things you can do with them that require little or no money! 

Visit Santa for free

During the holidays, Bass Pro stores and Cabela's turn into a winter wonderland, where kids can get a free photo with Santa and free shareable video! There are even free crafts, games and activities available. And don't forget to mail your letter to Santa while you are there! 

It's now through December 24th. Learn more about Santa’s Wonderland events at Bass Pro here. (Please note you do have to make a reservation for your free Santa photo) 

And in case you'd like to go out to lunch, here is a list of restaurants where kids eat free or very cheap! 

Take a drive around the town to see the holiday lights

From people’s homes on your street to the main street that runs through your town, there are plenty of places where you can view beautiful Christmas lights during the holidays.

Everyone loves a parade

Check your city's website or local Facebook page to see if there will be a Christmas parade

Go to a midnight Christmas Eve Service at church

This is a great way to enjoy Christmas in your community.

Visit a Christmas tree farm near you

Even if you don’t pick one out, it’s still a festive experience that can make for a wonderful family trip.

Go to a local Christmas Festival

Many towns have Christmas festivals where you can drink hot cider and look at beautiful Christmas displays and decorations. Whether it’s a festival of trees or the welcoming of Santa coming to town, you could find a fun Christmas festival near you. Check to see if your local community offers any Christmas festivals this year.

Town Christmas Light Display

Many towns and cities put on free Christmas light displays that you can drive through or walk around. These displays are a great way to get into the holiday spirit and see some festive decorations.

Check your area for a living Nativity 

Many areas will have a living Nativity at a church or park.  There is usually something for the kids and if you are lucky, maybe some hot chocolate! 

Go ice skating (or sledding) 

This is a great winter activity to do with loved ones. Go to a local rink, lace up those skates and show off your skating skills, or learn to skate if you’ve never done it before. Make it extra fun by rocking some ugly Christmas sweaters at the rink.

See a Christmas play

Check if your local theatre company is putting on a Christmas play, like The Nutcracker or A Christmas Carol, and take the family to see it. You’ll create fun memories and support a community group all at once. Then conclude the night by playing a fun Christmas game at home.

Do a random act of kindness

Celebrate the season of giving by doing a random act of kindness. The smallest kind act can make all the difference to someone, especially around the holidays. It can be something as simple as paying for someone’s coffee or complimenting someone on the street.

Go Christmas caroling

Use your pipes to sing some classic Christmas carols around the neighborhood this year. Get a group together to spread the holiday cheer in harmony! Sport classic Santa hats for a festive touch.

Some information shared from Reader's Digest and Money Pantry.