As Christmas is approaching, it becomes enjoyable to load up shopping carts in person or online with gifts of all sorts. It is finally the time of the year when you can buy presents for anybody and everybody, wrap it up, put it underneath the tree, and see somebody's face light up because it was the gift that they had wanted.

As exciting as all of that can be, it is nothing but the opposite of exciting when you go to the checkout online or in person, and see that your bank account does not agree with your current Christmas wishlist. A wave of sadness drapes over you, you don't want to be the disappointing person that couldn't afford to place any gifts under the tree this year. Presents are not the only thing that makes the holidays, the holidays. It is time to tuck your credit card back into your wallet and enjoy Christmas activities that will not put your account in the negatives.

1. Dig through Christmas movies and have a movie marathon.

Even if you don't own DVDs, Netflix and Hulu have put some favorite Christmas movies on to watch. Nothing beats snuggling up in comfy blankets and watching a movie such as "Elf."

2. Be old-fashioned and send out a Christmas card or two.

A handwritten card means so much more than posting your Facebook status as "Merry Christmas everyone." Greeting cards can be expensive but nothing is stopping you from pulling out the construction paper and crafting a card all by yourself.

3. Instead of buying a Christmas tree, cut one down.

It seems like a habit to go to a store to buy a Christmas tree. The trees are piled on top of each other and wrapped up, after looking through multiple trees, it gets tiring so you end up grabbing any tree. Cutting down a Christmas tree yourself is an experience that can never be beaten. None of the Christmas trees are bundled up, they are free standing and you have all the time to pick the perfect one.

4. Drive around town or go to a festival and see Christmas decorations.

There may be only one strand of Christmas lights in front of your house due to the electric bill holding you back but go out and see thousands of lights somewhere that you know you're not in charge of that bill.

5. Volunteer somewhere such as a soup kitchen.

As much as a present can mean a lot to you, something as simple as a meal can be everything to somebody else. Help others get into the spirit by serving a meal, hand making ornaments at an old folks home, or walking dogs at the local shelter.

6. Go and visit Santa.

As young or old as you are, there will never be an age limit when it comes to visiting Santa. Although seeing Santa and taking a photograph is sometimes expensive, companies such as Bass Pro Shops does all of it for free. If not, go to or take part in a Christmas Parade and have the experience of seeing Santa without waiting in any line.