Cheap Christmas Ideas for Teenagers

[antelopevalley]

I have two children, a DD 14 and DS 16. Money is short and I am struggling with ideas for Christmas trips for teenagers are cheap. DD also has mobility issues.

Any ideas? Or should I just not bother at this age?

Teens love a Xmas market. My DS went with his friends several years in Birmingham. Street food they sell is amazing.

Glasgow really is great at Christmas. The lights around George Square are usually good. Ice rink, big wheel etc. Not sure exactly what will be there this year.

My two used to love Princes Square for a look round the shops and a bite to eat.

I was in town last week and noticed fairground rides down at St Enoch Square.

I get it. When money is tight the last thing you want to do is waste it on ungrateful teens. Then again you want the family magic that was so much easier to create when they were smaller.

I am trying to:

1. Reduce my expectations of their enthusiasm
2. Do things I like and include them if they want to be. E.g. putting on a film and having mince pies. They might stay in their rooms, but even knowing its happening is a bit reassuring for them.
3. Not commit any money to things I can't guarantee they will enjoy. Its too much pressure all round (and the cost of living crisis is not their fault but this sort of makes it a burden on them)
4. Offload on mumsnet 🤣

@CrapBucket That is a great philosophy!
And it was so much easier when they were young. Santas grotto, making reindeer food, making tree baubles, all easy and cheap things to do.