29 Free Things to Do During the Holidays
Discover 29 festive holiday activities that cost absolutely nothing to keep the season merry without breaking the bank.
29 Free Things to Do During the Holidays to Keep the Season Festive
Here at The Penny Hoarder, we’re all about saving money. The holidays can be expensive, but they don’t have to be. Whether you’re battling holiday spending fatigue or just want to enjoy quality time without dipping into your wallet, these
will keep the cheer alive. From active outings to cozy indoor fun, there’s something for everyone—families, couples, friends, or solo celebrants. Dive in and make memories that last longer than any gift.These festive activities don’t cost a thing. We’ve organized them into categories for easy planning: outdoor adventures, games and creativity, food and hosting, and entertainment. Pick your favorites and fill your calendar with joy.
Outdoor Adventures
Get fresh air and holiday spirit with these no-cost ways to explore your community.
- 1. Run (Or Walk) in a Holiday Run
A holiday race — yes, we mean running or walking — is a great way to jump start those fitness resolutions. Many local events offer free registration, allowing your whole family to participate. Dress in festive gear, cheer each other on, and enjoy the post-run endorphins. Check community boards or social media for events near you. - 2. Drive to See Holiday Lights
Pile into the car with hot cocoa (from your pantry) and cruise neighborhoods known for dazzling displays. Many towns have self-guided light tours—use apps like Eventbrite with the free filter to find them. It’s magical for kids and adults alike, creating traditions year after year. - 3. Go on a Local Scavenger Hunt
This holiday activity requires a bit of prep but delivers huge fun. Devise clues sending your group around town: find the town’s welcome sign, snap a photo with a holiday statue, or spot unique decorations. Use free tools like Scavify’s guide to craft interactive challenges that make you feel like tourists at home.
Games and Creativity
Bring out the competitive and artistic sides with these indoor-outdoor ideas.
- 4. Play Bingo, but Make it Holiday
Who doesn’t love Bingo? Create holiday-themed cards online for free—think squares like “Hear Jingle Bells,” “See a Reindeer,” or “Spot a Snowflake.” Print them out and play with family or neighbors. It’s simple, laughter-filled, and endlessly customizable. - 5. Schedule Some Holiday Reading Time
Head to your local library (free entry!) and pick seasonal favorites like “The Polar Express” or “A Christmas Carol.” Take turns reading aloud, acting out scenes, or discussing themes. It’s a cozy way to bond and spark imagination, especially during school breaks. - 6. Make Holiday Crafts
Dig out paper, glue, markers, and recyclables for Pinterest-inspired projects. Kids love ornament-making or paper snowflakes; adults can craft wreaths from nature finds. Search “free holiday crafts for kids” for age-appropriate ideas that turn supplies you already have into treasures. - 7. Make DIY Gifts
Still gifting? Skip stores for heartfelt homemade items like photo frames from cardboard, custom coupons, or personalized playlists. A list of 100 free ideas awaits online—thoughtful, zero-cost presents that mean more than bought ones.
Food and Hosting Fun
Culinary creativity doesn’t require a big budget—these ideas maximize your kitchen.
- 8. Bake Holiday Treats
‘Tis the season for cookies, pies, and cinnamon rolls! Use pantry staples to bake batches for sharing or snacking. Challenge yourself with a from-scratch gingerbread house—tutorials abound online. The aroma alone fills your home with holiday magic. - 9. Try Out a New Recipe
Perfect a family heirloom or experiment with twists on classics for holiday gatherings. Think festive salads or spiced drinks using what’s on hand. It’s a low-stakes way to hone skills and impress at potlucks. - 10. Host a Cookie Swap
Invite baking buddies to each bring dozens of their signature cookies. Swap, sample, and score variety without baking everything yourself. Add holiday music for extra festivity—everyone leaves happy and stuffed. - 11. Host a Toy Exchange
Kids outgrow toys fast. Gather families for a swap: each child picks items to trade, walking away with “new” treasures. Declutter, save money, and teach generosity in one fun event. - 12. Host a Potluck
Share the load for holiday dinners—assign dishes, drinks, or even plates. No one bears the full grocery bill, and you get diverse foods. Theme it (e.g., ugly sweater potluck) for laughs.
Entertainment and Relaxation
Unwind with music, movies, and games—no tickets needed.
- 13. Attend a Free Performance
December brings community concerts, choirs, and bands—many free. Support local talent at churches, parks, or schools. Check libraries or Eventbrite for schedules. - 14. Sing Karaoke
No talent required, just enthusiasm! Use YouTube instrumental videos for holiday hits like “Jingle Bells.” Host at home with friends—record for silly keepsakes. - 15. Have a Holiday Dance Party
Blast holiday tunes and dance around the tree. No more excuses—shake off stress with moves from salsa to the Macarena. Perfect for all ages. - 16. Have a Game Night
Dust off board games and cards; ask friends to bring theirs. Categories like classics (Monopoly), quick plays (Uno), or holiday trivia. Bragging rights are the prize. - 17. Have a Movie Night
Curate holiday classics (“Elf,” “Home Alone”) or genre picks. Pop pantry popcorn, dim lights, and cozy up. Rotate hosting for variety.
More Festive Ideas to Round Out the List
To hit all 29, here are additional gems blending the above themes:
- 18-22: Volunteer at a soup kitchen, window-shop festive displays, stargaze with hot drinks, build a snowman (or sandman), and create a gratitude jar—write daily thanks on scraps.
- 23-26: Neighborhood caroling (with permission), photo booth with DIY props, puzzle marathon, and storytelling circle sharing holiday memories.
- 27-29: Nature walk for pinecones/decor, free online holiday classes (libraries offer them), and a family talent show.
Why Free Activities Matter This Holiday Season
In a time of rising costs, free fun combats burnout. Studies from the American Psychological Association note that experiences build stronger bonds than things, reducing stress. Tailor to your group: active for kids, relaxed for elders. Pro tip: Use free apps like Eventbrite’s free filter for local events.
| Activity Type | Best For | Group Size | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outdoor | Families, fitness fans | 2-10 | Low |
| Games/Crafts | Kids, creatives | 4-8 | Medium |
| Food/Hosting | Foodies, social | 6+ | High |
| Entertainment | All ages, evenings | 2+ | Low |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can these activities work for non-Christmas holidays?
Absolutely! Adapt for Hanukkah (latke swaps), Kwanzaa (storytelling), or general winter fun. Focus on themes like lights, food, and community.
Are there safety tips for outdoor activities?
Check weather, dress warmly, and supervise kids. For runs or hunts, inform someone of your route.
How do I find local free events?
Visit libraries, community Facebook groups, or Eventbrite with the free filter. MommyPoppins.com lists kid-friendly options.
What if I lack supplies for crafts or baking?
Use recyclables, pantry basics, or library resources. Focus on no-supply ideas like games.
Can adults enjoy these without kids?
Yes! Wine swaps (BYOB), adult Bingo, or cocktail potlucks keep it fun.
References
- 29 Free Things to Do During the Holidays — The Penny Hoarder. 2024-11-27. https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/save-money/free-things-to-do-during-the-holidays/
- Free Festive Fun: 29 Free Things to Do During the Holidays — AOL (republishing Penny Hoarder). 2024-11-27. https://www.aol.com/21-free-things-during-holidays-150003655.html
- Holiday Fun on a Budget: Free and Low Cost Ideas — TODAY Show (YouTube). 2025-12-19. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uMp-YDgFvU
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