The holiday season in Spokane is a magical time, but for many families, it can also be a source of financial stress. Fortunately, Spokane offers a wealth of budget-friendly shopping options and festive activities that won't break the bank. Here's your guide to making this Christmas both merry and affordable.
Affordable Christmas Shopping in Spokane
1. Old World Christmas Outlet Store
Located at 4005 E Main Ave, Spokane, WA 99202, this local gem offers a wide selection of Christmas ornaments and decorations at discounted prices. Perfect for unique gifts or a festive touch at home.
oldworldchristmas.com
2. Santa Express Spokane
Designed for children 4–12, allowing them to shop for gifts ranging from $1–$12, assisted by “elves” for guidance.
santaexpress.org
3. Local Thrift Stores and Vendor Malls
Spokane’s thrift stores and vendor malls, such as the Great Northwest Vendor Mall and Famous Joe’s, are favorites for affordable and unique gifts.
Christmas-Themed Art Workshops for Families
1. Pinot's Palette – "Christmas with My Gnomie"
Sunday, Nov 16, 2025, 4:00–6:15 PM – Create a festive gnome painting at 1919 E Sprague Ave, Spokane, WA.
pinotspalette.com
2. Mulberry Market Co. – Holiday Wreath Making
Saturday, Dec 13, 2025, 11:00 AM–1:00 PM – Craft your own wreath at 17325 E Sprague Ave, Spokane Valley, WA.
allevents.in
3. Covered with Art – Holiday Workshops
Holiday-themed art workshops in Spokane Valley, including watercolor and felting.
coveredwithart.com
4. The Plant Farm – 18" Winter Wreath Workshop
Thursday, Nov 20, 2025, 3:30 PM – Create a fresh evergreen wreath at 14208 E 4th Ave, Spokane Valley, WA.
allevents.in
Free and Low-Cost Holiday Activities in Spokane
- Spokane Christmas Arts & Crafts Show – Nov 21–23, 2025, at Spokane Fair & Expo Center.
custershows.com - Spokane Valley Celebration of Lights – Dec 5, 2025, at Balfour Park, tree lighting, Santa visit, music, and hot cocoa.
spokanevalleywa.gov
Local Resources for Families in Need
- Toys for Tots – Spokane – Starts Oct 1, 2025. Collects new, unwrapped toys for ages 0–12.
spokane-wa.toysfortots.org - The Spokesman-Review Christmas Bureau – Dec 11–18, 2025, provides food vouchers, books, and toys for qualifying families.
christmasbureauspokane.org
Tips for Budget-Friendly Holiday Shopping
- Plan Ahead: Take advantage of sales to avoid last-minute stress.
- Set a Budget: Stick to what you can afford.
- DIY Gifts: Handmade gifts are personal and meaningful.
- Shop Local: Unique finds at local stores often cost less than big-box options.
Something to Keep in Mind for Parents of Young Children
Christmas doesn’t have to be extravagant during the years your children won’t really remember. I remember when I got my baby brother a Christmas present during his first Christmas—it was just a little stuffed animal I found in a random box at my dad’s house. I wrapped it myself, excited to give it to him. When he opened it, he threw the stuffed animal and played with the box instead. Still a funny memory to this day, but it shows that young children don’t need much to be happy.
A great holiday idea is to have your children gather toys they no longer play with that are still in good condition. They can help wrap and donate them to local children or families in need or bring them to organizations like Toys for Tots. Consider involving them in shopping for or making gifts, teaching the joy of giving. Simple, thoughtful gifts often matter far more than expensive ones.
DIY Christmas Present Ideas for Families on a Budget
Here are some creative ideas you can do at home using items you already have or can pick up cheaply at the dollar store:
- Homemade Ornaments
- Use old jars, pinecones, or salt dough to create ornaments. Paint or add glitter for a personal touch.
- Dollar store supplies: ribbon, glitter, paint.
- Photo Frames & Memory Collages
- Decorate plain frames with stickers, buttons, or craft foam. Add family photos or a handmade collage.
- Baked Goods in a Jar
- Layer dry cookie or brownie ingredients in a mason jar. Add a handwritten recipe and festive ribbon.
- Customized Mugs
- Buy plain mugs and decorate with oil-based Sharpies or paint pens. Bake to set the design.
- Handmade Cards & Gift Tags
- Use construction paper, stamps, markers, and stickers to create personalized holiday cards or tags.
- Coupon Booklets
- Make “gift certificates” for chores, hugs, or special treats—fun, free, and meaningful for kids and parents alike.
- Mini Indoor Plant Gifts
- Propagate plants from cuttings you already have and pot them in inexpensive containers. Decorate pots for the holidays.
These activities are a fun way for the whole family to get involved while saving money, and they create meaningful gifts that loved ones will cherish.
By exploring Spokane's local shops, participating in community events, making DIY gifts, and embracing creative family activities, you can make this holiday season memorable without overspending.
