Eid-Al-Adha is fast approaching, and many are preparing for this special time of celebration and togetherness for Muslims worldwide. Those celebrating are encouraged to go all out for both Eids and commemorate the holiday.
But, with the current cost of living crisis and the high expenses often associated with the festivities, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the costs involved.
With some creativity and planning, you can have a memorable Eid celebration without straining your wallet. In this article, we'll explore some practical and budget-friendly ideas to make your family’s Eid festivities shine while keeping costs in check!
Make DIY Banners and Decor
It’s easy to get sucked into buying lots of decor to create a festive atmosphere during Eid-Al-Adha, but the main focus of the celebration is being with family, wearing your best clothes and giving to those in need.
So, Instead of buying expensive decorations, why not channel your creative side and make your own?
Get the whole family involved with crafting beautiful banners, lanterns, and paper decorations! You can even let the little ones paint the decorations to give them a say in how they look and have fun doing it.
Use colourful paper, strings, and ribbons to create a vibrant ambience. DIY decorations add a personal touch and help you save money by using materials already available at home.
Mum Natalie Mangia Smith and daughter Layla used some coloured paper and felt, drew an outline of everyone's hands in the family and did some henna (mendhi) designs and attached it to some string to make a garland!
Reuse Previous Eid Outfits and Home Wear
Dressing in your best outfit doesn’t necessarily mean having to buy something new. People often feel pressured to buy something new every Eid, but this isn’t always financially feasible.
Consider reusing or restyling outfits from previous Eids, and passing on outfits to younger children as they grow out of them. With a few alterations or creative accessorising, you can breathe new life into an existing outfit without spending a penny!
Embrace the spirit of sustainability and make the most of what you already own. Remember, it's not the price tag that matters; it's the joy and love you bring to the celebration and that you feel good in what you wear.
Make Your Own Eid Gifts
Although many families love to exchange gifts as part of their Eid celebrations, it doesn't have to drain your wallet!
Consider making some handmade gifts, which can be both heartfelt and money-saving. You’ll often find that relatives and loved ones prefer a handmade gift from your little ones over an expensive one!
Handcrafted cards, personalised photo albums, or home-baked goods can make perfect Eid presents. When giving gifts to the little ones, consider gifting a Quran (holy book) or other Islamic books you may have in the house.
Ask Everyone to Bring One Dish
The feast is often a highlight of the day during Eid! With so many family members coming together, it can quickly get expensive if you’re hosting. To keep it budget-friendly and inclusive, encourage a potluck-style gathering where everyone contributes by bringing one dish.
Sharing the cooking in this way lightens the financial burden to those hosting and adds variety to the table as you get to sample a wide range of homemade dishes! Assign dishes based on personal preferences or cultural backgrounds and enjoy a diverse and yummy meal.
Keep Charitable Donations Within Your Means
Eid is a time of gratitude and compassion, and one popular way to celebrate is by giving back to those in need. While it's important to support charitable causes, it's vital to consider your financial circumstances and donate within your means. Generosity shouldn't come at the expense of your own well-being. Here are some practical ways to make charitable contributions without straining your budget.
- Set a Donation Budget: Before donating any money, assess your financial situation and determine an amount you can comfortably allow for charitable giving. Remember, every donation, regardless of its size, can make a difference.
- Explore Alternative Ways to Contribute: If financial donations aren’t feasible for your family this year, don’t worry. As an alternative, you could consider non-financial ways to support charities. Volunteer your time and skills at local organisations, donate unused items or clothing, or promote causes through social media and word-of-mouth. These acts of kindness can be just as valuable and impactful.
- Involve Family and Friends: Eid is all about togetherness. If you’re feeling worried about how much your family will be able to donate, encourage your loved ones to join you in your donations. You could organise fundraising within your family and community, fostering a sense of unity and shared responsibility!
Remember, the spirit of giving on Eid is about making a positive difference within your means. By donating what you can afford, you contribute to the well-being of others while keeping your own finances stable.
Celebrating Eid on a budget doesn't mean compromising on any of the joy or togetherness that come with the holiday. By embracing a DIY approach, reusing things you already have, and sharing the responsibilities, you can create a memorable Eid celebration without breaking the bank.
The true essence of Eid lies in the love, unity, and blessings shared among family and friends. By focusing on these aspects, you'll discover you can have the most meaningful celebrations with creativity, resourcefulness, and a touch of family fun!
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