Opinion: It’s Time to Turn Off the Christmas Lights and Fund Healthcare Instead

Every year, councils across the UK spend tens of millions of pounds on Christmas lights, money that pays for giant snowflakes strung over high streets, glowing reindeer on lampposts, and switch-on ceremonies with confetti cannons and celebrity guests.

It’s charming, nostalgic and, for many, a beloved part of the season.

But there’s an uncomfortable question we ought to ask:

When the NHS is struggling to cope, when social care is collapsing, and when councils are cutting essential services, is spending public money on festive lights morally defensible?

Increasingly, the answer feels like no.

The Price of Sparkle

Most people have no idea how much public money goes into making high streets look Christmassy. Even modest displays involve hiring lighting rigs, paying contractors to put them up and take them down, maintaining electrical infrastructure, and covering energy costs.

When you add it all up nationally, it reaches into the tens of millions annually.

That is money that could fund hundreds of nurses.

Money that could expand GP capacity.

Money that could keep a local care home open, or fund mental health services that desperately need support.

And yet we pour it, every year, into lights that shine for six weeks.

Meanwhile, in the NHS…

At the same time as high streets gleam in December, hospital corridors echo with a different kind of reality:

Patients waiting 12 hours or more in A&E.

People stuck on surgical waiting lists without a date in sight.

GP practices turning away new patients because they are beyond capacity.

Social workers drowning under impossible caseloads.

These aren’t abstract problems — they’re everyday stories for millions.

So when councils proudly announce a £50,000 switch-on event, or reveal a brand-new £70,000 set of LED motifs, it begins to feel like a surreal misalignment of priorities.

We can’t afford enough district nurses, but we can afford giant illuminated baubles?

It’s hard to argue that isn’t fundamentally wrong.

“But Christmas Lights Are Good for Community Spirit!”

This is the argument most often made in defence of festive displays, and it’s not without truth. Christmas lights undeniably lift spirits and encourage people to visit town centres. They soften the darkness of winter and help maintain a sense of tradition.

But here’s the uncomfortable counterpoint:

Cheer is lovely, but care is essential.

You cannot treat loneliness with fairy lights

or untreated cancer with a glowing snowflake.

If “community spirit” matters, then so should the wellbeing of the people who live in those communities. And right now, the NHS and social services are warning, loudly, that they cannot meet demand.

The choice isn’t between joy and misery.

It’s between pretty streets and proper healthcare.

The Harsh Truth: Christmas Lights Don’t Save Lives

This is the sentence many people don’t want to hear.

But it’s the heart of the argument.

Christmas lights make towns look beautiful, but they don’t shorten A&E waits.

They don’t hire midwives.

They don’t pay for carers.

They don’t keep a struggling GP surgery open.

And when public resources are stretched to breaking point, it becomes absurd, even irresponsible, to defend large seasonal spending on decorative lights while essential services crumble.

We treat Christmas lights as if they are non-negotiable.

They aren’t.

Healthcare is.

A Radical Proposal: Turn Them Off

Imagine a national decision, controversial, shocking, headline-making, to suspend publicly funded Christmas lights for just one year. All the money saved would be ring-fenced for healthcare, mental health support, or frontline social care.

It would make a powerful statement:

“Until public services are properly funded, we cannot justify spending public money on luxuries.”

Would it be unpopular? Absolutely.

Would it be brave? Yes.

Would it make a difference? Undoubtedly.

And it would force the country to confront a truth we keep skirting around: our priorities have drifted so far out of alignment that decorative lighting is funded while vital services strain at the edges.

The Real Controversy: We Already Accept This

Perhaps the most shocking part is not the suggestion that Christmas lights should go — but that we’ve allowed a situation where healthcare is so fragile that such a choice even makes sense.

That’s the real scandal.

And unless something changes, it won’t be the last time we’re asked to choose between sparkle and survival.

Ten Outrageous Things Councils Spent Money On, instead of helping the NHS:-

Brace yourself. These examples are inspired by real patterns of council spending across the UK — the kinds of eyebrow-raising “priorities” that make taxpayers wonder whether someone has finally lost the plot.

1. Giant Light-Up Reindeer That Cost More Than a Nurse’s Salary

Nothing says “we’re broke” like buying a 15-foot glowing reindeer for the town square. If only A&E queues were as bright.

2. A “Festive Light Tunnel” That Needed a Separate Generator

Yes, really. A glittery tunnel of LEDs… powered by its own generator… during an energy crisis. Absolutely genius budgeting.

3. A Switch-On Ceremony Featuring a Celebrity No One Recognised

Thousands spent so a barely-remembered reality TV contestant could press a button and wave awkwardly at 200 people.

4. Specially Imported Animated Snowmen for a Town That Rarely Gets Snow

Because nothing says fiscal responsibility like shipped-in snowmen with moving eyebrows.

5. Lighting Repairs for Decorations Older Than Half the Residents

Some councils spend a fortune repairing lights that have been put up every year since the 1980s. At what point do we let them retire with dignity?

6. A Christmas Tree So Big the Council Had to Rebuild the Pavement

A giant tree… that needed structural work… that cost more than a year of therapy sessions for vulnerable families.

7. “Digital Santa Experience” Booths No One Used

Think VR Santa in a booth that looked like a portable loo. And yes, taxpayers funded it.

8. A Festive Illuminated Arch That Failed Safety Checks – Twice

Money well spent: an arch so unstable it was taken down, put back up, taken down again… and then quietly scrapped.

9. A New Storage Facility JUST for Christmas Decorations

Because apparently the answer to financial pressure wasn’t “stop buying decorations” but “build them a house.”

10. A £20k Firework Display for a Five-Minute Countdown

Five minutes of bangs and sparkles. The cost? Enough to fund a small team of community mental health workers for a fortnight.

How the 2025 Budget Could Shape Christmas: What It Means for Your Festive Season. That's Christmas 365 Takes a Look

Worried about bills?

The Chancellor’s 2025 Budget has dominated headlines, with households and businesses alike wondering what it all means for daily life. 

But at That’s Christmas 365, we’re looking at what you really want to know: how could the Budget affect Christmas? 

Whether it’s the cost of your festive food shop, the presents under the tree, or the winter energy bill you dread opening, policy decisions made in spring and summer have a habit of catching up with us by December.

Here’s how the Budget could influence your Christmas—for better or worse.

Potential Positives for Christmas 2025

More money in your pocket (if tax thresholds shift)

Any rise in personal allowances or adjustments to National Insurance rates could give households a little financial breathing room. Even a modest increase in take-home pay adds up over the year, and by December that could mean extra room in the budget for gifts, entertaining, or travel.

Support for energy bills could soften winter costs

If the government maintains or extends support schemes for gas and electricity, this will be especially welcome when the nights draw in. With Britain’s winters getting colder and pricier, any relief could help families heat their homes comfortably while still enjoying festive treats.

Retail incentives may boost shopping deals

Should the Budget include measures to support high streets, small shops, or online retailers—such as temporary business rate relief—consumers could benefit through more competitive pricing. Christmas sales may start earlier, run longer, or simply come with better value.

Help for families on lower incomes

Increases in Universal Credit, child benefits, or pension support would lift some pressure for families who often feel the festive squeeze most acutely. These measures, announced earlier in the year, will directly affect how much flexibility households have when December arrives.

Possible Negatives That Could Affect Christmas Spending

Higher VAT or duties could push up festive favourites

If VAT rates rise or duties on alcohol, tobacco, sugary foods, or imports increase, the cost of traditional Christmas purchases could climb. This might affect everything from your prosecco and whisky to chocolates, biscuits, and party snacks.

Inflation impact from broader tax or spending changes

Budgets that restrict spending or shift taxation often ripple through the wider economy. If inflation rises later in the year, festive essentials—including food, decorations, clothing, and toys—may cost more. This could lead to tighter gift budgets and more careful planning.

Energy bill uncertainty could overshadow celebrations

If support schemes are scaled back, or if the Budget signals future increases in energy pricing, households may become more cautious. Festive displays, longer heating hours, and Christmas entertaining all become harder when utilities rise sharply.

Travel could become more expensive

Changes to fuel duty, road tax, or rail funding often influence winter travel prices. For families who trek across the country to see loved ones, this could mean pricier petrol or costlier train fares—making the journey home for Christmas a bigger financial undertaking.

How You Can Prepare Now

Not so worried with careful planning

Start budgeting early

If you suspect costs will rise, spacing out your Christmas spending through the year can soften the blow.

Look for price-freeze products

Some retailers and supermarkets commit early to freezing prices on festive favourites. These are worth bookmarking.

Consider energy-efficient decorations

If energy support looks uncertain, switching to LED lights or using timers could manage costs without dimming the magic.

Support small businesses while saving

If the Budget gives independent retailers a boost, you might find better deals—and more unique gifts—by shopping small.

Final Budget Thoughts

Budgets always arrive with a mixture of optimism and uncertainty. While the 2025 Budget could bring welcome support for households and businesses, it may also introduce price pressures by the time the festive season rolls around. Keeping an eye on key areas—energy, retail costs, tax changes, and inflation—will help you plan a Christmas that’s joyful, affordable, and stress-free.

Whatever the Budget holds, That’s Christmas 365 is here throughout the year to help you prepare, save, and celebrate in style.

How to Deal with Christmas-Related Debt: A Guide to Financial Recovery

The festive season is a time for joy, celebration, and giving, but it can also leave many of us with a financial hangover. 

Christmas-related debt is a common issue, as the pressures to spend on gifts, decorations, food, and travel often outweigh our budgets.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your holiday expenses, don’t worry—you’re not alone, and there are practical steps you can take to regain control of your finances.

1. Assess the Damage

Start by calculating exactly how much you owe. List all your debts, including credit card balances, loans, and any other expenses you incurred over Christmas. This might feel daunting, but having a clear picture of your financial situation is essential for making a plan.

2. Create a Budget

A realistic budget is the cornerstone of financial recovery. Review your income and essential expenses, such as rent, utilities, and groceries. Determine how much you can afford to allocate towards repaying your Christmas debt each month without compromising your basic needs.

3. Prioritise Your Debts

Not all debts are created equal. Focus on paying off high-interest debts, like credit cards, first. If you have multiple debts, consider using the avalanche method (paying off the highest-interest debt first) or the snowball method (paying off the smallest debt first for psychological motivation).

4. Cut Back on Non-Essentials

January is a great time to tighten your belt and cut back on discretionary spending. Cancel unused subscriptions, cook at home instead of dining out, and look for free or low-cost entertainment options. Redirect the money you save towards your debt repayment plan.

5. Consider Balance Transfers or Consolidation

If you’re dealing with high-interest credit card debt, look into balance transfer cards with 0% introductory rates or low-interest personal loans to consolidate your debts. These options can help reduce the amount of interest you pay, allowing you to pay off your debt faster.

6. Set Up a Savings Plan for Next Christmas

Once you’ve made progress on your current debt, start planning for the next festive season. Set up a dedicated savings account and contribute a small amount each month. By spreading the cost of Christmas throughout the year, you can avoid falling into the same debt cycle.

7. Seek Professional Advice if Needed

If your debt feels unmanageable, don’t hesitate to seek help. Organisations like StepChange or Citizens Advice in the UK offer free, confidential advice and can help you develop a debt management plan. Many local churches can tap into expert advice networks to help people in debt.

8. Reflect on Your Spending Habits

Finally, take some time to reflect on what led to your Christmas debt. Were there expenses you could have avoided? Could you simplify your celebrations next year? Setting boundaries and managing expectations with family and friends can help you stay within your means in the future.

Final Thoughts

Christmas-related debt can feel overwhelming, but with a clear plan and some discipline, you can recover and take steps to prevent it in the future. Remember, the holiday season is about spending time with loved ones—not about how much you spend. By focusing on what truly matters, you can enjoy a joyful Christmas without the financial stress.

How to Be of Good Cheer This Christmas. Nine Pointers to How to Do This Without Breaking the Bank

Image courtesy Shirley Hirst & Pixabay

Christmas is a time of joy, giving, and celebration, but it can also be a time when financial pressures mount. 

From buying presents to hosting festive meals, it’s easy to feel the strain on your wallet. 

However, being of good cheer doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. With a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy the festive season without overspending. Here are some tips to help you celebrate Christmas on a budget while still keeping the spirit of the season alive.

1. Set a Budget and Stick to It

Before the festive season fully kicks off, take a moment to set a realistic budget for your Christmas spending. This should include everything from gifts and decorations to food and outings. Once you’ve set your budget, commit to sticking to it. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overspend, but having a clear plan in place will help you stay on track.

A good way to break down your budget is to allocate specific amounts for each area—presents, food, travel, and any extras. If you know how much you’re willing to spend in each category, it will be easier to make decisions without going overboard.

2. Give Thoughtful, Not Expensive, Gifts

It’s easy to feel like you need to buy lavish gifts to show you care, but thoughtful presents often mean much more than expensive ones. Personalised gifts, homemade items, or experiences can have a lasting impact without costing a fortune. For example, you could make a scrapbook, bake some festive treats, or offer to help someone with a task they’ve been putting off.

You can also consider gifting experiences rather than physical items. A promise to spend time together, such as a picnic or a day out, can be more meaningful than material goods. The key is to focus on what will bring joy to the recipient, rather than the price tag.

3. DIY Decorations

Christmas decorations can be beautiful without being expensive. Instead of splurging on new décor every year, consider making your own. DIY decorations add a personal touch to your home and can become a fun activity to enjoy with family and friends. You can use materials you already have, such as paper, fabric, or even natural items like pine cones and holly from your garden.

There are plenty of online tutorials for making everything from wreaths to tree ornaments. Not only will this save you money, but it can also become a cherished holiday tradition.

4. Plan Affordable Festive Meals

Christmas dinner is one of the highlights of the season, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Plan your meals ahead of time and look for ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. Buying ingredients in bulk or opting for seasonal produce can help you save. Consider simple yet delicious recipes that won’t require expensive ingredients.

Another great way to reduce the cost of the festive feast is to share the load. If you’re hosting Christmas dinner, ask family members or friends to contribute by bringing a dish or dessert. This not only helps to spread the cost but also allows everyone to feel involved in the meal.

5. Take Advantage of Sales and Discounts

Christmas sales, both before and after the holiday, can be a great opportunity to buy gifts and decorations at a reduced price. Keep an eye out for discounts, special offers, and promotions. Black Friday and Cyber Monday often offer significant savings on a wide range of products, so plan ahead and try to purchase items on sale if you can.

Additionally, don’t forget to use loyalty points, discount vouchers, or cashback offers if available. These small savings can add up and help you stay within your budget.

6. Organise a Secret Santa

Rather than buying gifts for everyone in your family or friendship circle, consider organising a Secret Santa. This tradition limits the number of presents you need to buy, as each person only purchases a gift for one other person. You can set a budget cap, ensuring that everyone is comfortable with the amount being spent.

Secret Santa can be a fun and stress-free way to exchange gifts, and it keeps the focus on the thought behind the present rather than the cost.

7. Focus on the Spirit of the Season

Remember that the essence of Christmas is about spending time with loved ones, not about how much you spend. Focus on creating lasting memories, whether it’s through family traditions, playing games, or simply enjoying each other’s company. These moments are priceless and don’t require a hefty bank account.

If finances are tight, consider volunteering your time to help others in need during the festive season. Giving back to the community is a wonderful way to embody the Christmas spirit, and it can bring a sense of fulfilment and cheer that money can’t buy.

8. Reuse and Repurpose

Christmas doesn’t have to be all about buying new things. Reusing decorations, wrapping paper, and even gift bags from previous years is a smart way to save money. You can also repurpose items you already own to create new decorations or gift packaging.

For example, old newspapers, magazines, or fabric can be used as unique and eco-friendly wrapping materials. Not only does this help your budget, but it’s also a more sustainable way to celebrate the holidays.

9. Avoid Last-Minute Shopping

Last-minute shopping often leads to impulsive purchases, which can quickly push you over budget. Plan your gift-buying early to avoid panic purchases. This way, you can take advantage of sales, compare prices, and make more thoughtful decisions without the pressure of a looming deadline.

By shopping early, you’ll also have more time to personalise your gifts, making them more meaningful without spending extra.

Christmas can be a magical time of year, even on a budget. By focusing on thoughtful gestures, creative solutions, and meaningful experiences, you can enjoy the holiday season without financial stress. 

The true spirit of Christmas lies in spending time with loved ones and appreciating the joy of giving—not in how much you spend. So, keep the festive cheer alive and celebrate in a way that leaves both your heart and wallet full.

Merry Christmas!

Why Spending on Christmas Gifts is Rising Despite the Economic Climate

The festive season is fast approaching, and while the joy and excitement surrounding Christmas remain constant, there's an interesting trend that continues to puzzle many: the rising expenditure on Christmas gifts, even amidst challenging economic conditions. 

Despite inflation, rising energy costs, and economic uncertainty in recent years, spending on Christmas gifts has continued to grow. 

So, what exactly is driving this rise in spending, and how are people managing to keep up with the demands of festive gifting?

The Emotional Power of Christmas

Christmas is deeply embedded in British culture as a time for generosity, joy, and family connection. For many, this season represents more than just the act of giving presents; it’s an emotional ritual where expressions of love, appreciation, and gratitude come to life. The pressure to give often stems from a desire to meet societal expectations or maintain traditions, especially after a difficult year.

In a time when many people have faced financial or personal challenges, Christmas presents a rare opportunity to experience some normalcy, delight, and escape from the everyday burdens of life. This emotional need to create joy for loved ones can lead to people stretching their budgets in ways they might not at other times of the year.

The Rise of “Revenge Spending”

Another significant factor that has contributed to the increase in spending is the phenomenon known as “revenge spending.” After prolonged periods of lockdowns, travel restrictions, and a general scaling back of entertainment during the pandemic, many people are now more willing to splurge. Christmas offers a special occasion to indulge and compensate for what they may have missed during uncertain times.

The desire to make the holiday season memorable after a difficult period is strong. Families that couldn’t celebrate Christmas properly during the pandemic are looking to go all out this time around. This, coupled with the need to make up for missed holidays or experiences, translates into higher expenditure on gifts, travel, and celebrations.

The Social Media Influence

Another key driver behind rising Christmas spending is the growing influence of social media. Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have created a space for users to share their lavish decorations, elaborate gift hauls, and extravagant holiday experiences. As a result, there’s an increased sense of competition and pressure to keep up with the “perfect Christmas” aesthetic often displayed online.

Social media, coupled with influencer marketing, has also made it easier for retailers to showcase their latest products, enticing consumers to spend more. Special online deals, flash sales, and influencer endorsements fuel the desire for people to buy the latest gadgets, luxury items, or trendy gifts. This can lead to spending beyond planned budgets, as people feel compelled to match the online holiday standard.

The Impact of “Buy Now, Pay Later” Schemes

The proliferation of "Buy Now, Pay Later" (BNPL) schemes has also played a crucial role in the rise of Christmas gift spending. Companies such as Klarna and Clearpay offer flexible payment options that allow consumers to buy expensive items and spread the cost over several months without immediate financial strain. These services make it easier for people to purchase higher-value gifts or more items than they might typically afford upfront.

While BNPL offers a solution for some who want to manage their holiday spending, it also poses risks. People may be tempted to overspend, leading to financial difficulties in the months following Christmas when payments come due. Nonetheless, these schemes have made it easier to justify larger purchases, adding to the overall rise in festive spending.

Discount Culture and Early Shopping

Retailers have become increasingly strategic with discounts, promotional offers, and early Christmas sales. Black Friday and Cyber Monday, once predominantly American traditions, have now become essential fixtures in the UK retail calendar. This shift has encouraged consumers to start their Christmas shopping earlier and take advantage of “deals” they perceive as too good to miss.

However, while these sales events may create the impression of saving money, they often encourage people to buy more than they originally intended. The combination of fear of missing out (FOMO) and seemingly endless sales creates a spending frenzy, with shoppers often purchasing additional gifts or splurging on luxury items that might otherwise be out of reach.

Balancing Tradition and Financial Realities

For many, the joy and tradition of giving during Christmas outweigh the financial constraints they may be facing. Despite tightening budgets and rising costs, the social and emotional importance of the holiday season drives people to prioritise festive spending. Whether through careful savings, BNPL schemes, or utilising sales, many households find ways to ensure that Christmas remains a time of abundance, even in difficult economic circumstances.

That said, it’s important for consumers to be mindful of the potential long-term financial impacts of overspending. Rising inflation and economic uncertainty suggest that, while festive cheer may feel irresistible, balancing gift-giving with realistic budgets is essential to avoid starting the new year with financial stress.

Conclusion

Christmas spending remains on the rise, driven by emotional attachment to the holiday, post-pandemic “revenge spending,” and the ever-present influence of social media. While creative payment solutions and strategic sales make spending easier, it’s crucial for consumers to navigate the season with caution and financial prudence. As much as we want to spread joy, it’s worth remembering that meaningful gifts don’t have to come with an extravagant price tag. Ultimately, the holiday spirit lies in connection and gratitude, not just in the gifts we exchange.