Set the number first
Decide the total you can spend, then split it into food, drinks, decorations and activities. The free Christmas budget planner helps you see it next to gifts and travel.
Keep the menu simple
- Pick one main dish and a few sides or go appetizers only.
- Ask guests to bring a dish or dessert, potluck style.
- Plan quantities from your guest count so you do not overbuy.
Decorate with what you have
Lights, candles and paper snowflakes go a long way. Skip one-time-use decorations.
Plan cheap entertainment
Games keep people talking and cost little. See Christmas party games for families or run a white elephant exchange with a low price limit.
Track as you go
Keep receipts and compare to your plan before the last grocery run.