Our affordable advent activities started right after Thanksgiving this year. We had to jump right into December because Thanksgiving was so late. Our usual Black Friday shopping trip was full on shopping for Christmas mode because we knew it would be here before we know it. Usually our advent activities start the week after Thanksgiving. good thing we have been doing this for a while, so we were prepared.
One of our first advent activities as a family is shopping on Black Friday. We make a day of it by getting up early, heading out to the stores and getting good deals. After shopping for a few hours we head to lunch, then continue shopping. As evening approaches we move into the next part of our day which is to see the tree lighting downtown. In the cold, or rain, or whatever weather we have our family has a tradition of the tree lighting. This is a free event, so it works well for us.
Advent Activities and Black Friday Shopping
As I mentioned we do Black Friday shopping, and that is mostly from our budget we have set aside for Christmas. On that day we look for really good deals on household items, furniture or clothing that we can purchase. Our only shopping days are ones’ where get the best deals. Again, if we do not need it, then we do not buy it. This day is reserved for accomplishing our Christmas shopping list.
Creating a list of advent activities that align with the days leading up to Christmas is an organized way to stay on track and not let the holiday fly by with busyness.
Outdoor Nature Hike
The next part of our Advent takes us on a nature hike. Our family has been taking nature hikes for any years now, and we love them. Winter is the best time to hike. No bugs, mud or large crowds. All of the trees are barren and the beauty of winter shows. One of my favorite things to photograph on our nature hikes is frozen water and lakes. Something about the beauty, and that is why we choose winter hikes for one of our advent activities.
Our best hiking adventures take place in the winter. Bundling up keeps us warm, then it makes the hot cocoa taste even better when we get in the car. Make a day out of it and pack a lunch or hot cocoa thermos.
Christmas Tree Decorating
Christmas tree decorating is one of our more memorable frugal advent activities. Each year the kids’ take turns on who picks out the tree. They jump in the van with my husband and purchase their favorite one. In addition to the they decorate the tree with all of the special ornaments we have save from year to year. Reminiscing about all of the different ornaments that were made by all of the kids at different events is special.
Decorating Our Home Inside and Out
After the tree decorating activity we begin the other decorations in the boxes. One of the best ideas was to label our bins with what rooms they go in. That way it is not such a hectic race to get it all done. Adding in tree decorations and house decorating saves us time so that we can focus on other fun and affordable advent activities. Hopefully we will be enjoying these activities for many years’ to come.
Furthermore, we decorate the outside. Again, whichever child has picked out our tree for the year gets to help with the outside decoration. It is always fun to see where they put our candy canes, string lights and grinch decoration. Working with dad on this they learn how to run the lights and keep them close to the house so they are easy to plug in and turn off. My husband also teaches them about setting up a design with the candy cane lights.
Advent activities for the family that allow us to enjoy the season without financial stress are simple. What kids’ love most is time with their parents. Beyond that it doesn’t really matter. Oh, and when they are little make an advent activity with cardboard boxes. They will love it.
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