A few days ago, I walked into TJ Maxx/HomeGoods with a simple mission: buy two packets of specialty hot cocoa as a fun surprise for my kids. Easy. In-and-out. A wholesome, budget-friendly surprise for our Christmas movie night.
Except… I didn’t make it 20 feet into the store.
Christmas was everywhere. Glittering garlands, tree skirts that put my own to shame, Christmas crackers that instantly made me want to start a new tradition. In seconds, the cocoa was forgotten and I was spiraling. Suddenly it seemed essential—urgent, even—that every bed in my house have Christmas flannel sheets, my kitchen needed holiday towels, and I was certain my sons childhood would be void of holiday nostalgia if I didn’t buy fixings for a hot cocoa bar (forget the single packets I intended to buy.)
I wanted to buy everything, and was paralyzed with overstimulation all at once.
Tis the season.
Even though I’m normally thrifty (frugal living is my true calling), this time of year tends to shake my resolve. And I know I’m not alone. Budgets are tight around the holidays. Expectations are high. So does the temptation to overspend.
Thankfully, I’ve collected some Minot-tested strategies that keep the season special without blowing the budget. If you’re hoping to keep things festive and financially sane, here are some of my favorite ways to save during the holidays.
Do Secondhand First
One of Minot’s greatest strengths is its thriving secondhand scene. Facebook Marketplace, local thrift stores, Once Upon a Child—these are treasure troves.
And when it comes to kids’ gifts? Secondhand is doesn’t mean second-class.
Kids’ interests shift fast. I’ve found brand-name toys, Hot Wheels tracks, Magna-Tiles, LEGO, you name it—all in like-new condition and for a fraction of their retail cost. Shopping secondhand doesn’t mean you can’t afford new. It means you’re choosing to be resourceful, cut waste, and stretch your budget, making room for more of something else.
Don’t Spend Money on Things Destined for the Trash Can
This is a hill I’ll die on: wrapping paper shouldn’t be spendy. It’s literally designed to be ripped up.
I started checking thrift stores or Facebook Marketplace “free” listings for wrapping supplies years ago and never looked back. It’s probably the easiest way I save a few bucks, and I never cringe to see it tossed in the trash.
Visit Magic City Surplus
Magic City Surplus is a budget-saver year-round, but especially now. They carry overstock and items that are brand-new. It’s perfect for:
Stocking stuffers, gifts, tape and batteries, Christmas lights, ribbon, paper plates and napkins, and picking up something fun for a white elephant/secret Santa exchange.
Check Uglee Box
Every Friday, Uglee Box drops new inventory—items with damaged boxes or returns, but new inside. Everything starts at $7 and prices drop all week until Wednesday, when remaining items are $1.
You’ve got to sort through somewhat chaotic bins to see what’s there, but I’ve had great luck. It’s a thrifty shopper’s dream, here are a few things I’ve seen first-hand: Threshold lamps from Target for $3, Stanley travel cups for $7, glassware for $5. You never know what you’ll find, and it’s worth a look if you’re trying to curb your spending this season.
Start With Free Before Paying for Holiday Activities
Minot shines during the holidays. Before you invest in paid events, check out what’s going on for free by checking EventsMinot.com or scrolling events on Facebook. The number of quality no-cost activities always surprises me.
A few of my favorites include: seeing the CPKC Holiday Train roll through town, the free performance of Handel’s Messiah, holiday light displays, Tuba Christmas, and musical light displays (Visit Minot puts out a map of light displays around town!)
Then choose just one or two paid events your family is genuinely excited about. You’ll still make wonderful memories without draining your budget.
Remember What the Holidays Are Really About
It’s easy to get swept into a glittery frenzy—especially when the stores are magical, the social feeds are curated, and the pressure is real.
But the season isn’t about perfection.
It’s not about the most expensive gifts.
And it’s definitely not about matching the aesthetic of anyone in your social feeds.
It’s about connection. Celebration. Joy.
Small moments that add up to something beautiful.
The magic isn’t in the spending.
It’s in how you show up.
For more stories and ideas for living in North Dakota, connect with me at amyallender.com or @HeyMinot on Instagram and Facebook.
