Holidays tend to be a time for giving gifts. Whether for a spouse, a guest, or an Afikoman present for the kids, buying gifts can be a big expense. Agree upon a maximum amount to spend from the beginning and with the others involved. Instead of choosing a big and expensive gift, look for something with sentimental value instead. A small gift, such as a family picture frame, a book with an inscription inside, or a home-cooked cake with a thoughtful greeting card, will be much more meaningful for the recipient.
Clothing: Look for Sales
Before you go shopping for the new holiday season, take a look through your closet first. It’s worth reorganizing your closet to find items you forgot were in there and to see what you need. When you do go holiday shopping, try buying at the end of the season to catch the sales, especially “buy one, get one free” deals, which are perfect for purchasing clothing for multiple children.
Holiday Meals: Hosting Guests
With the holidays come festive and elaborate meals. Aside from feeding the family, having multiple guests can also make the grocery bills skyrocket. Pesach is all about bringing people together, and one way to save money is by sharing the responsibility. If you are hosting guests, ask them to bring dessert or wine. If you are the guest, offer to make one of the items on the menu or to host next time so that the expenses don’t always fall on one family.
Entertainment on Chol HaMoed
Chol HaMoed is a great opportunity for fun day trips and family vacations. Choose outdoor activities away from malls and shopping areas—it is the spring season, after all. Go for a hike or bike ride in nature and picnic on the beach with cool drinks from home. Also, be sure to look for free events happening in your area. Free events are usually offered to the public during the holidays, and they’re worth taking advantage of. If you do find costly activities, try searching for coupons or group rates before booking at full price.
