As we all know, Christmas is near. If you celebrate Christmas, this article is for you. BUT wait! If you don’t celebrate Christmas, it’s also for you! How is this so? Well for my Christmas lovers, I want to let you know I have nothing against Christmas. I love the movies, the music, decorating the tree, decorating with colorful lights, etc. But we can’t turn a blind eye on the cost impact that Christmas has. In order to judge something appropriately, we mustn’t just observe its pro’s or its con’s, or else our conclusions on the topic would be considered biased.

According to the National Retail Federation, people in the United States were predicted to be spending up to $902 dollars for the holidays last year. Which increased the amount of money spent per person adding $25 dollars. Though $25 dollars can be considered a pretty small amount, the money, as we can see, adds up to more than 10 times. This year it is expected to be $890 per person. A bit better, but still a heavy price.

Let’s compare this to other holidays in the United States. First we have Halloween, which even with the cost of decorations, costumes, and candy, the total is $114 per person.  Surprisingly people spend more on Valentine’s day cards, chocolates, and flowers, which all add up to about $189 per person. Fourth of July is the day our country received its  independence, so I’d assume the cost is greater. The cost of Fourth of July per person, which includes fireworks, food, and all kinds of red, white, and blue items sold during this time, only make $170. Finally, Easter is a time of chocolates, egg hunting, etc. coming together to create an average cost of $190 according to NBC4 Washington. Even if we add all these numbers, our final cost comes to $663. Christmas costs more than all these holidays combined! With $890 dollars you could invest, save, or buy something or many things that are more necessary than yearnings for things we don’t require.  

In conclusion, Christmas is up to you. If this changes your perspective of it in some way, great. If it doesn’t, it’s still great that you read this article. Now I want you to ask yourself, “would I think of this holiday with the same cheer and excitement if I didn’t spend money on it?” My honest answer to this is no. My opinion is that if you’re going to get your jolly on and spend this Christmas, balance your economic choices. Especially for those of you who work and go the extra mile, you should make sure what you buy is worth your hard work and dedication. But what do you think are memories more important than money no matter the limit? Is Christmas a scam?