Christmas on a Budget

For many, Santa Claus is Coming to Town is not a celebration or a jaunty song; it is a warning, an air-raid siren to parents and families across the land. "Christmas will soon be here, and you will be out of pocket."The nation is expected to shell out a whopping £7 billion on both Christmas preparations and gifts this December - spending the equivalent of half the average monthly household income on the festivities.And half of Britons, who are already plagued with money problems, say that their debt will worsen as a result of Christmas. It can take around four months to recover from Christmas overspending - meaning you may not finish paying for the holidays until April… if you’re lucky.Christmas is an expensive ordeal in the best of times - but we are currently experiencing the worst of times during this cost of living crisis.But is there a way to get through the bleak midwinter and enjoy Christmas on a budget? A new podcast from the Manchester Evening News will share money saving advice and DIY tips, hearing from experts on how to celebrate Christmas without breaking the bank.How can I prepare the traditional Christmas dinner for under £20? How can I put up my lights and decorations without adding to my already soaring electricity bill? Which are the best shops for the best prices?From Christmas dinner to presents, decorations to budgeting, join Karyn Fleeting - aka money-saving obsessive Miss Thrifty - in your go-to guide for frugal festive fun.