The holiday season is often a time of stress and high expectations. There's a sense of pressure to find the perfect gifts for your loved ones and it’s common to feel overwhelmed by how much you are spending on holiday shopping and events. 

That's why we're here with some new ideas for affordable traditions to start this year, unique local gift suggestions, and ways to celebrate the holiday season without overspending. 

New Traditions & Local Experiences

Closet Clear-Out: Begin your holiday preparations by decluttering your closets to make space for new items and gifts. Along the way, you might discover some items that are perfect for regifting to your friends and family.

Volunteer Time: Take your family out to volunteer, donate to a food drive, or sponsor a family in need during the holidays. This not only fosters a sense of togetherness but also helps those less fortunate.

Gift Exchange or Progressive Dinner: Instead of buying gifts for everyone in the family, consider organizing a gift exchange or a progressive dinner. This can reduce the stress of gift shopping and spread the joy of giving across the family.

Local Lights: Visit your neighborhood coffee shop for a seasonal beverage, and gather the family for a car ride to enjoy the festive holiday lights and decorations in your local area.

Group Holiday Experiences:  Remember, many people already have a lot of stuff and there are many other ways to show those you love you care this holiday season. Consider gifting experiences that your family or friends can enjoy together instead. That way, you aren’t overthinking about buying individually for each person.

Consider trying one of these holiday experiences in Indianapolis:

• Try your hand at candle-making at Penn & Beech.
• Enjoy Duck Pin bowling in Fountain Square or Pin Heads in Fishers.
• Experience Winterlights at Newfields.
• Or, Christmas at the Indianapolis Zoo.
• Catch a movie at the Living Room Theater at Bottleworks.
• Go to Top Golf or Back9 for a night of fun.
• Get creative and paint pottery at Half Baked Pottery.
• Take a cooking class at Chef JJ’s or learn the art of cheese-making at Tulip Tree Creamery.
• Visit the Carmel Christkindlmarkt for holiday shopping and ice skating.

Holiday Shopping Tips & Local Recommendations

While the gesture of giving is nice, it's not about the price tag or trying to outdo others. What matters most is the thought and personal touch you put into your gifts. If you’re struggling to decide what to buy someone, consider using this Rule of 4: something they want, something they need, something to wear, and something to read. This guide will help you feel confident in finding unique, individualized gifts that won’t go to waste.

Consider holiday shopping at local businesses, so you can feel confident that your spending is contributing to your community. Being mindful of where your money is going will help you stay present on the reason for the season. 

For unique local Indianapolis gifts, explore these spots:

• Just Pop In
• Nicole-Taylor's Pasta + Market
• Silver in the City
• Pumkinfish
• Global Gifts
• Grounded Plant + Floral Co.
• Vintage 54 Collective or Broad Ripple Vintage
• IndyReads Bookstore

As the holiday season approaches, it’s important to remember that the season is not about spending a lot of money, but time with friends and family. By embracing these new traditions, unique local gifts, and experiences, you can make this holiday season one to remember without breaking the bank.