This is a second page of your comments.
Your comments:
Why is it that the biggest grinches over the Christmas period are those who seem to think that the real meaning of Christmas is lost? Perhaps it's because they're not on the receiving end of the more commercial aspects of Christmas: i.e. no presents! Surely the Christian outlook should be for everyone to enjoy Christmas in a way that's personal to them.
Rich, UK
I'd spend more but I've paid it all out in increased council tax and utility bills this year and there's nothing left.
David Howe, UK
 |  Yes, I spend a good deal of money on gifts for my family. However, this is not my favourite part of Christmas  |
Yes, I spend a good deal of money on gifts for my family. However, this is not my favourite part of Christmas. I look forward to the beautiful music. Songs of joy and praise that lift the spirit. I make it a point to learn a carol in another language each year. That is my gift to myself and as my child gets older, it will be my gift to her. I want her to understand that English speakers have not cornered the market on Christmas. She will have a deeper respect for other cultures and their contributions to the Christian faith.
Sherry Beth, USA We will be spending the essential, because for us Christmas is not the consumerism. People shouldn't pay attention in the material things but in the real mean of Christmas.
Carina e Dora, Guarda - Portugal
My husband was just made redundant and I don't earn a lot of money - so we're having a "household" present and the traditional meal but no decorations or anything else. It's not so bad as we don't have children, but it is a very depressing time of year to be broke.
Anon, UK
Whatever feels right, is what each should do. Lavish or modest - as many say, it is the loving feelings and sense of celebration which should be paramount. But I can't help thinking that some of those who actively criticise spending more on gifts for others would maybe think nothing of blowing a good portion of that on a night out in the pub or restaurant. Anyway, the real fun is in being creative with the packing of the gifts!
Martin, Lebanon
| Well done to those who don't spend excessively at Christmas, but don't judge the rest of us. I'll eat into my savings a little, but I want to give presents they'll like to those important to me. |
Well done to those who don't spend excessively at Christmas, but don't judge the rest of us. I'll eat into my savings a little, but I want to give presents they'll like to those important to me.
Laura, UK Christmas has been devalued of its Christian values not only by big business, but by "politically correct" organisations such as the Red Cross all but banning any mention of Christianity during what is a Christian holy festival. I'm sure in Saudi they don't ban the name of the prophet just in case they offend anyone who isn't of the same background.
Barry, UK
I'm amused by the anti-Christian article of faith that "Christmas is a pagan event", as though the people of the past were so stupid that moving the date 3 days after the solstice would fool them. Typical contemporary, British, secular-humanist arrogance.
Matt, Sweden
Because I'm away from home in Germany until right before Christmas, I have already done all my shopping on the internet, the gift wrapping service saves yet more effort, and they assure me I've saved over 20% on the RRP. That saving should allow me to buy a few rounds over xmas!
Stephen, UK
| I will be spending nothing. I'm not religious, and Christmas is just an excuse for everyone to revel in self indulgence and tackyness. |
I will be spending nothing. I'm not religious, and Christmas is just an excuse for everyone to revel in self indulgence and tackyness. That's not for me; but at least I won't be worsening the country's debt level!
Tony, UK
I have absolutely no idea how much I will spend. It depends on what I find. Searching for the perfect present for someone and finding something they will love is what makes Christmas shopping fun, not the amount of cash you can flash around or save. It also makes the gift more personal.
Lois, Germany (UK)
I have already bought Xmas DVD's for my kids over the net, and I find it's normally quick and safe. As usual I will buy the kids loads - as Christmas is for them really. I reckon with everyone thrown in �350 - �400 will be about right.
Nick S, UK
This year, as usual, we will have the 'single' members of the family to join us for the festival, dominated by the Christmas Eve carol service at the local church. Before that, however, my wife and I will spend several days in Germany buying those things still not readily available in Sainsbury's and the like while enjoying the local atmosphere, which we feel is more congenial compared to Britain.
Bill Potter, England
| �20 per person is quite enough to tell them I love them, the message is the same no matter how much you spend. |
I have done all my Christmas shopping (6 presents in total for my family and boyfriend) at a cost of �120. �20 per person is quite enough to tell them I love them, the message is the same no matter how much you spend.
Anne-Marie , London, UK I can't afford to spend anything this Christmas. During previous Christmas periods I have become hypnotised by the flashing lights and festive music in shopping centres and stores and have run up enormous credit card bills on presents for my family. Unfortunately I had to consolidate all my debts into one monthly payment earlier this year, so this year my family will have to go without. I hope this tale of woe encourages others not to fall for the cunning tricks of those marketing folks.
David, Brighton
Spare a thought for those who work over Christmas to keep the country going while others sit down stuffed with food. Power station operatives, food manufacturers, shop workers, bar staff and by no means least all the public services that we rely on. The list must be endless.
Nick, England
I spend on average �300 on presents for family and friends. This does not include what I spend on my husband!
Mrs Liddle, UK
| Some I think are missing the point of life! Is it not to have fun and be with those you love? |
Some I think are missing the point of life! Is it not to have fun and be with those you love? If you can embrace this now and through the rest of the year does it matter how we label it? Or how much we spend?
Fiona, USA/UK About �100 altogether which is less than the previous years. I've decided to spend money on only close friends who I know will give back, last year I spend loads on people who only spent a fiver on me! I've decided mini bottles of Tesco champagne will suffice, hope they are not reading this!
Emma , Cambridge, U.K
| We should all recognise Christmas for the sense of hope and joy that it instils in the people who celebrate it, Christian or not |
I'm amused by some of the postings on this board. Some Christians seem to 'claim ownership' of this event and are indignant that anyone else should be enjoying it. Christmas is not when Christ was born, it was a pagan festival which was adopted by Christian settlers so that they might convert pagan peoples. Why Christians feel so attached to a pagan event I don't know, we should all recognise Christmas for the sense of hope and joy that it instils in the people who celebrate it, Christian or not.
Tim Austin, UK I have 7 family members to buy for this Christmas. I think 20 to 30 pounds a head is what I will be spending, plus a bit less for friends. There are birthdays throughout the year to really splash out on loved ones. It makes me feel uncomfortable when I hear kids real off all the expensive things they want from Santa. I hope that I will remember when I become a parent that kids cannot always get what they want and not getting everything they want can actually be really good for them in the long run.
M, Scotland
I think it's a fairly safe bet that most people will end up spending more this year as the price of everything has gone up. What they don't tell you is that in addition to spending more, you will probably also have purchased less.
Keith, UK
I'm not a Christian, so I won't be spending much money on Christmas presents as I feel it would make me a hypocrite. I have nothing against Christmas or Christians and I like a huge dinner and the rest of it. Plus I am totally skint, thanks to a stupid bank loan.
Lachlan, Scotland �100 on my wife, �500 on my visa card !!!
Graham, Scotland
It is good to indulge oneself and others once a year. We should also remember to package something for those old people in our neighbourhood who live alone. They get very lonely and depressed at this time.
Ibiye, Nigeria
I have spent today with a class of 7 year old children who are (mostly) well aware that Santa is not real but between 25 of them could not tell me the story of Jesus' birth. I'm not a Scrooge, but I find the idea that children have lost their only surviving Christian heritage to commercialism very scary and demoralising. Do we still want peace on earth and goodwill to all men? My family have a �10 per person limit on all presents and I think we have just as much fun as anyone else.
Hannah, England
| We're all looking forward to seeing each other |
This year and in subsequent years, we have decided, as a family, that we are going to spend a stress free Christmas by buying a small gift, costing �2 or less to put in a stocking on Christmas day. We all love each other very much, we haven't much money, we're all looking forward to seeing each other and sharing the few days we have with each other without the stress.
Jenny Riley, UK Spending money is great, but spending someone else's money is even greater! That's why I love Christmas: spending thousands of pounds that belong to banks and credit card companies! And they think they are going to get it back. Ha ha, you can't pluck feathers from a bald chicken as they say!
Vicky, UK
�20 on cards, �30 on my wife, �20 each on two nephews and �200 on my mistress!
Bob, UK
| Unfortunately, Christmas has lost its beauty |
Unfortunately, Christmas has lost its beauty, instead of commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ it turned to be a commercial occasion, meaningless and devoid of sanctity and truthfulness.
Natalie Maamari, Lebanon Yes it's commercialised, yes it's expensive and yes Christmas shopping is frustrating and tiring - but hey, nothing beats Christmas morning, the lights, the presents, the joy of staying in your PJs and knowing that all the hard work and expense of that one day is over for another 365 days! God love all you Xmas miseries.
Gill, England
I ebayed it this year and completed shopping dec.1st. I bought about 1200 US dollars of stuff and paid 428.00. I usually am a Christmas eve shopper.
David, USA
Why doesn't everyone use the internet? Do people like waiting around for hours in the rushes? I don't, and I plan to do as much internet shopping as possible - it's often cheaper too!
Peter Maxwell, England
How unsurprising that nobody seems to see the true meaning of Christmas. Rampant capitalism has taken the festival over for itself. It's very sad.
John , England
I love Christmas and love buying presents for my friends and family. Unlike when you were little, the best part about Christmas is the giving and I love to see people's faces as they open presents I spent a lot of time choosing. This year my in-laws have opted for a secret Santa in which everyone puts their name and what they would like for Christmas in a hat twice and then everyone draws two names, therefore only having to buy two presents. Although I see this makes sense financially it has rather taken the fun out of the giving part of Christmas.
Amber, UK
I'm nearly done shopping for Christmas. I've tried to avoid the crowds as much as possible. People seem more angry, selfish and discontented this year. I've ordered a few things online, taking advantage of some of the "free shipping" being offered. I'm trying to remain positive and cheerful this Christmas against a gloomy world that wants to turn my favourite holiday into a commercial, secular frenzy.
Sherry, USA
I'll be lucky enough to spend Christmas with my Finnish fianc�e's family in Lapland .. 10 minutes away from Santa Claus' official home. Finnish folk make/buy each other simple but heartfelt presents.
Allan, UK
| I feel as if the commercial bombardment started sometime in May |
Already I have got Christmas fatigue, I feel as if the commercial bombardment started sometime in May. I love the gatherings, re-unions and the parties. But cannot stand the aggressive marketing that takes place.
Derek, England We'll probably spend more than usual this year...we are going to Norway, where there is snow and no adverts that I can understand - maybe even no Slade. This is our reaction to commercial attempts to extend Xmas (not Christmas) from August to the New Year
J.R.Blake, UK
This says it all. Pages and pages of text about Christmas and only five mentions of the word "Jesus". Christmas started in late September in my Local supermarket. Crass commercialism at it's worst.
Simon Soaper, England
Christmas was originally a pagan festival to celebrate the winter solstice. Then it was hijacked by the Christians so it seems only fitting that the pagans in the form of big business should now have it back and we can all celebrate it anew as a festival of rampant commercialism and greed.
Andy, UK
So Tim (UK) thinks those that don't like Christmas should leave town. We would do Tim, but there's so many of us that holiday prices go through the roof!
Jonathan, Scotland
I was doing really well until last week - �250 and everything bought. Then I saw a motorbike I just HAD to have - oops. �7.5k later it's the most expensive Christmas I've ever had - ho ho ho hum!
Bill, Redditch, England
About �150. I'm not spending any more as I'm in the middle of buying a flat which also costs a lot of money. I don't know how people can afford to spend anymore in this days.
Chis, UK
Bah, Humbug! You'll be lucky to get the day off... and don't expect a present!
Mister Scrooge, Somewhere in Olde Englande!
I hate Christmas, I am thinking of working in a homeless centre or going to stay in a cave in the mountains far away from anything Christmasy. I intend to spend as little as possible, as before we know it it will be January, back to the drudgery of life and an increase of monthly bills.
Stephanie Aitkins, London, UK
I'm going to browse round the shops, pick up and handle all the gifts I'm thinking of buying, ask staff lots of questions and milk them for their knowledge and advice then buy everything online at the cheapest possible prices from anonymous Internet retailers to ensure the further sad demise of our high street shops.
Jake Perks, Shropshire, UK
| It would help me a lot if businesses could give their staff half of their pay mid-December to help with the costs |
Christmas although enjoyable is a really expensive time for everyone, especially if your financial situation is low. I find the cards to be the most expensive and see no justification of spending in the region of �1.50 to �3.00 for a card. Box cards are just as expensive costing anything from �3.00 to �7.99 for a box of 30 cards. My budget is low and is getting lower each year, because the cost of living just gets higher and higher with no pay increases.
Another problem for me is that because I get paid monthly, I have to use my November pay for everything which is pretty daunting. It would help me a lot if businesses could consider this and give their staff half of their pay mid-December to help with the costs.
Sandra, UK
In response to Sandra (UK); Many European employers help their staff out at Christmas time by paying annual salaries in 13 monthly installments, thus giving employees two paycheques in December. I think this is a great idea, and might help us Brits stay out of debt at this time of year.
Kaye, UK
To Sandra, UK: If you shop in the high street cards can be expensive - try one of those everything-for-a-pound shops, most of them do a box of 50 cards for a pound and some of them are actually quite nice!
Helen, Exeter, UK
I won't be spending much this year but it is looking to be one of my happiest Christmases ever with my entire family around. We will attend church together, have a meal which everyone helps prepare and celebrate the birth of Christ by enjoying one another.
Paula Coviello, USA
How much money I spend at Xmas is my own business, and I am tired of watching the media and advertisers whip children, parents and everyone else up into a near hysterical frenzy from approx. mid-August onwards of spending, presents, money, chocolate, booze, mince pies and tinsel. There are no rules that say Xmas has to be about any of these things, it is essentially a Christian festival about the birth of Jesus. You can celebrate this any way you think appropriate!
Anona, UK
I'm a student. If my family are very lucky, they'll get a slice each of Spar value bread.
Greg, UK
| I cannot stand the commercialism of Christmas |
I cannot stand the commercialism of Christmas, and the fact that Christmas now seems to start in November. Christmas for me is about spending time with family, not worrying about whether this year's gift is big/expensive enough.
Becky, UK I've heard of some people spending thousands of pounds on Christmas presents. These people seem to have completely missed the point of Christmas. I'd rather see the money go to children who really need it.
Andy, UK
How much will I spend? As little as possible - I'll get everything I want at half the price in the post-holiday sales...
Jason Miles, UK
I gave up celebrating Christmas some years ago - I do celebrate the Feast of Yule which was high jacked by the early Christians. As to how much I spend - too much!
Andrew Trigg, England
I think that everyone should just pack there bags and leave town if they do not like Xmas people should realise that it is great fun
Tim, UK
The thing I hate most about spending at Christmas is the feeling that you should spend the same on everyone. If I spend say �20 on a present for one sister, I feel that I have to buy something of equal value for the other in case they think that I have a preference. It's this kind of one-upmanship that is the bad side of capitalism.
Liam Church, UK
I'm a student with very little money and I've already spent close to �200 on Christmas presents on my family and close friends. I do enjoy Christmas as a time to be with the people I love and I enjoy all of the simple traditions, but when I see things I know the people I love would like I can't help myself!
anon, UK
Joy of Christmas? I love to see the miserable faces of shoppers trudging through a busy town centre trying to buy present, and all along wishing they were somewhere else. Not really what it's all about - is it?
Darren, UK
| It is also a wonderful way for non-Christians to celebrate and have a good time |
As a Hindu I and my family do celebrate Xmas. It is one of the most exciting times of the year. We do presents, have a roast, listen to carols and hang up decorations. Whilst Xmas is a celebration based on religion i.e. the birth of the founder of Christianity, it is also a wonderful way for non-Christians to celebrate and have a good time.
P Fatania, England My wife and I have been stocking up on Christmas presents all year. We buy items that will not go out of date and will fit most sizes. Toys can be bought any time of the year. We have bought all of ours presents for around �250 which if they were the right priced would cost around �800. It pays to be organised and shop early. I think I bought our wrapping paper in February for 10p a roll, original price �3 per roll!!
Chris Harding, UK
I live in a religious part of the country and we plan to celebrate by giving angel ornaments - one to each family with a note. Each note will have a disadvantaged child's name and what Christmas wishes we provided for them in our family member's name. It helps to inspire the Christmas spirit in our family and it stops us from buying rubbish and trinkets to give to family members that will sit unused or end up being re-gifted.
Sarah, USA
What does it matter what Christmas is supposed to be about? The point surely is that people have a good time, and most Christians would feel content that so many people are brought together in today's world.
Dom, UK
| The presents become merely a bonus |
I know for sure my parents will end up spending just under a �1000. Not on me as I'm 20 and a bottle of aftershave will do me, but mainly on my younger brother & sister & close family and friends. When you get older it is not the presents that make Xmas, but the family parties & get-togethers. The presents become merely a bonus.
Aaron, UK My wife and I will be spending very little. I work in IT and my job as a developer has just been outsourced to an Indian company and my contract ends December 19th. I'll be joined by many more next year, and more the year after. Merry Christmas? I think not.
Carl, UK
The displays of stinginess here are breathtaking- �2 agreements, homemade presents and cards, if you are that selfish why have Xmas at all? The three wise men didn't bring papier-m�ch� and a book voucher, did they? Merry Christmas!
Richard Murray, UK
Nothing! The Council Tax and rent increases have eaten up everything. The fat cats from private companies ought to buy me some presents instead!
Alex Keel, UK
I've decided to buy everyone in my family tickets to a music concert that we can all attend together. Christmas is about giving and sharing and this is something we can all experience together.
Jamie, England
| When I buy someone a gift I like to get them something they like but might not normally buy themselves |
I don't set a budget but don't spend a lot, and don't expect people to spend a lot on me. If I enjoy someone's company I'll want to spend time with them, and if I don't then an expensive present won't change that. When I buy someone a gift I like to get them something they like but might not normally buy themselves. Consumable gifts are often best to avoid the potential embarrassment of an unwanted gift. One thing I would love to see is for shops to stop playing Christmas music until a week before the day - much as I like to look for unusual presents for people the way it is so aggressively marketed makes me glad when it's all over.
Jonny, England I disagree with a lot of the comments on this board. Many people claim that we've lost sight of the real meaning of Christmas and we're just concerned with spending money and getting as much out of it as we can. It's true that many people don't celebrate Christmas as the religious festival it was meant to be. But we still hold on to the principles of love, charity and good cheer. We take great pleasure in buying each other presents, and we think more about people less fortunate than ourselves. We have a break and enjoy the time it gives us to spend with our loved ones. I think it's especially impressive that we still celebrate Christmas in a secular society, even without looking upon it as a religious event - in my opinion, we do it for the right reasons now.
Leah, UK
To Leah, UK: Firstly, Christmas was never meant to be a religious "festival". It is a holy day on the Christian calendar. The customs associated with it are symbolic and are meant to be practised in a way that remind us of the gift God gave to us through Jesus. If this society is truly secular then Christmas shouldn't be a legal holiday. Non-Christians should go to work the same as Jews, Hindus and Muslims who aren't celebrating Christ's birth. Furthermore it is absolutely outrageous to insinuate that celebrating Christmas without the religious aspect is the "right" reason to do so. Gifts can be given any time of the year. Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of the Son of God. I would have been impressed if you had said that we take great pleasure in buying presents for people less fortunate than ourselves, and we think more about people who are dear to us. However, the other way round is simply secular selfishness without any religious significance whatsoever.
Stephanie, UK
I'll tell you why Christmas has become such a overly commercialised, secular holiday. There are too many people who want to participate in it because it's fun yet they don't want any part of the religious significance of the holiday. This cheapens the holiday and allows non-Christians to make a mockery of what is a joyous holy event. There are too many people who see it as nothing more than an excuse to drink too much and spend too much money. Christmas gift giving is symbolic of the Wise Men giving gifts to baby Jesus. Yet, our society has all but eliminated God and Jesus from this Christian holiday making it a secular free for all. I am disgusted by the number of people walking around in Santa hats who have absolutely no respect for the religion which created the Christmas holiday. It is insulting.
Susan, UK/USA
Susan UK/USA, saying the Christmas is only for Christians is highly arrogant. Muslim's believe in Jesus too, and other religions may wish to participate in a celebration that is probably most important for the country that they are citizens of. Christmas comes for all, like Eid can be celebrated by all, and Diwali can be celebrated by all. Doesn't celebrating some festival mean being kind and including people, as opposed to secularising one's self.
Anon, England
To Susan UK/USA Britain is a highly secular country and hence many people do not believe in or wish to celebrate the religious significance of Christmas. In ignoring this, we may return to the spirit and meaning of the original pre-Christian celebration on which Christmas is based.
Dave Wood, Scotland
My husband & I spend money on gifts for the kids, and make gifts for the family. It's a lot of fun, with five little kids sewing, painting, hammering, and stringing beads. (It also provides two months of arts & crafts activities, and keeps little fingers out of mischief.) We make gifts for the teachers & staff at the schools, and the paediatrician. There's a gift exchange with my husband's family, and in my family we draw names, get a gift for one person, and go to church together Christmas Eve. This year we may have to miss, my husband has surgery scheduled. His work is off that week, so its the logical time to recuperate. Still, it'll be strange to be home, without the folks. All told, it will come to about $350.00 to $400.00. It has to - we don't use credit, and that's what we have in the budget.
Kathy Willsea, USA
| I enjoy spending time with people I haven't seen for ages |
Some years I spend �50, other years I spend �500. As I don't celebrate 'Christmas' in the religious sense, I prefer to buy carefully selected gifts for family and close friends to show them I love them. But more importantly, I enjoy spending time with people I haven't seen for ages due to a year slogging my guts out at work! We tend to go to Australia to visit our family each Christmas and this year my husband and I are treating ourselves to business class flights to Perth on Boxing Day. It's an expensive treat but we've saved all year and feel we deserve it!
Lauren, UK I love Christmas and to me it doesn't matter how much you spend. To see the faces of the people opening your present is priceless, there's no better feeling than making someone smile!
Brendan, N. Ireland
Some of this debt issue might go away if we prevented retailers and toy makers marketing aggressively to children. Every now and again I catch the adverts that accompany children's TV and I'm shocked every time at the manipulation and gender stereotyping. We know that we are all affected by adverts and people who say they aren't are lying or stupid, so what effect are they having on the less worldly-wise minds of the young? Less adverts, less ridiculous present requests.
Katherine, UK
If people are giving in to 'pester-power' and overspending on the kids - then more fool them! It's not necessary. I love Christmas, and always have done, due to an upbringing that makes Christmas a cosy fun affair - it's a lovely bright half-way point through a long dark winter. But we never spent much money on it and never felt the need to. You can have a lot of fun on a budget you know. Something that is largely forgotten these days. Merry Christmas!
Anonymous
I bought all my cards and some presents in the January sales. The sales start on Boxing Day, so why not celebrate New year and Christmas together on the cheap?
Fernando, UK
| You can't hold advertisers responsible for everything |
What a lot of humbugs! I'm glad that my Christmas festivities don't depend on you lot. Woe betide that the British enjoy themselves. Far better that they get themselves worked up into a sweat over something that is supposed to be fun. If your children are demanding expensive presents and are then more interested in the box, whose fault is that? You can't hold advertisers responsible for everything. As children Christmas was special because we got things that we didn't get the rest of the year round. Stop spoiling them for the rest of the year and then they might be appreciative. But whatever else happens, would the British please stop moaning. Save the complaints for when you really have problems to worry about!
Sarah JC, UK Why is everyone so concerned about what other people do at Christmas? The fact that I choose not to be pushed into a huge debt on pointless presents that nobody wants doesn't mean that you have to do the same thing. Do what you like. If you want to be a sad individual who makes up for your worthless existence by inflating the profits of the high street shops in some vain attempt to prove to your family that you care about them, then feel free.
Simon Moore, EU
Having gone through several redundancies, company 'downsizing', lost most of my pension, and now am an OAP, I might squander some of my heating allowance on a nice little something to go on the table and my wife and I will have a Very Enjoyable time thank you. I can make up on the heating allowance by burning any Christmas card that has the word 'Xmas' on it. Why do people insist on replacing the name of the chap whose birthday we are celebrating with an X?
Ginger, UK
I have spent about �700, and will spend more! I love buying gifts, and work out who is getting what before I go shopping, to avoid the old 'that'll do' present. Online shopping is convenient, but not as much fun as store shopping. However, it's handy if you can't find what you want in the shops. I think it's great that everybody takes an individual approach to Christmas shopping. As for getting caught up in the commercial side of it, I think most of us do, even if we are at Church on Christmas morning.
Vicks, England
After years of exchanging pricey gifts that lost their appeal in a matter of months, my family last year decided to predominantly give food and wine. We sampled most of it on Christmas Day. It made for one of the best and most memorable Christmases ever and confirmed to me that it is not "having" a new gadget but "sharing" something together that makes for a better gift. Cheesy but true!
Neil, UK
| I buy my friends and family presents, but they're token gifts |
It's always nice to give and receive presents at Christmas, but more and more often people are getting themselves into debt trying to buy ridiculously over-priced presents for people, and that really isn't what it's about. I buy my friends and family presents, but they're token gifts; nothing huge.
Sophie, Northern Ireland It various how much I spend each year depending mostly on what's suitable for people and my budget. I have done some shopping over the internet and find this to be the easiest way as you do not have to queue but it does take the fun out of the Christmas shopping experience. The bottom line is that it's the thought that counts...
Anna-Marie Barnes, Bedfordshire, UK
It's ok to spend money on gifts, if it's your own money you are spending! People go mad and exceed their means. This means that they are probably still paying for last Christmas as they embark on shopping for this Christmas. It is supposed to be the thought that counts, not the amount you spend!
Mark H, UK
Bah, humbug. People lost sight of Xmas on many levels. For religious people, it has a deeply important and special meaning. I am not one of them, and rather it's a chance to be with my family, spoil them with a surprise gift and have a few days off work to repair my social life that suffers during my working hours. I know me and my boyfriend have been having so much fun taunting each other with our surprise gifts. They don't have to be expensive at all. It's the thought that counts. And nothing beats a kiss under the mistletoe!!
Donna, UK
It doesn't cost you anything to go to church and celebrate the reason we have Christmas.
Gerry, Scotland
| I think Christmas is a time of year to have fun! |
I think Christmas is a time of year to have fun! I have already spent a lot on my kids this year - I plan to spend more! This may have been my most expensive year but I enjoy Christmas shopping!
Mary, UK I wish Christmas would stay where it belongs (in December) rather than showing up in my local store in September. It's enough to put me off and make me grateful that as I don't have kids, I don't have to pretend I care!
Susan, UK
Doesn't everyone realise that the more you spend, the better the economy does, the more jobs there are available. I want a new job; therefore, I will be spending loads.
C Breedon, US ex UK
I spent LOADSA money 'cause on top of all my family, I have a new man to spoil... I love treating people nicely at Xmas, and have done so this year. Merry Christmas Everyone! :-)
Maxine, England
I try not to spend more than �50 this Xmas. This year I invested a lot of money in shares of banks and financial institutions, so hopefully with everyone else overspending I'm in for a nice tidy profit.
Wolfie, England
I spent far too much. All in all about �80. The best pressies are probably the edible ones as they don't land in the skip or in the car boot sale.
Volker, England (ex Germany)
I adore giving people presents at Christmas time, but that doesn't mean I spend a fortune. This year presents will be small, as we have been living on just one income since June, and are expecting our first child in Feb. But that won't make it a "bad" Christmas. As long as I can spend it with my family, then that is what really counts.
Helen, England
About �600 on presents - but that includes two children, 18 nieces and nephews - all of whom I will see on Christmas day, parents, and a small gift for siblings/partners. A lot of people I know would spend this much on their own two children!
Janie, Scotland
To cut down on buying presents for everyone in our ever growing extended family, we came up with a creative gift exchange. Each person buys one gift for someone in the family based on the 12 Days of Christmas. Last year, I got a coffee mug that has pears painted on it. I use it every day. Some of the interpretations were very loose while others hit the mark precisely. The actual exchange was so much fun that our family wants to do it again! Best of all, we saved money and enjoyed the gift giving more.
Beth, USA
| It's still great to give our family and friends gifts, to show our appreciation |
Think our average will be more then �300 on presents, but that's for the two of us. Excluding cards, food and drink... an expensive time! Christmas shopping is all done - well before it'll get really busy in the shops! Even started on the cards! No, for most people Christmas has nothing to do with the religious festivity it originated from, but it's still great to give our family and friends gifts, to show our appreciation. Lots of time together too, enjoying nice meals and good company. It's a great time! Merry Christmas Everyone!
H. Teitsma, UK My family has a �2 agreement - the maximum cost of each present we give to one person (�4 for each couple). I think it's a great challenge and we avoid getting ripped off.
John Buttress, UK
I can't believe how miserable people are on here! I'm not religious, but I enjoy buying things for family at Chrissy, I've saved up all year and I'll spend it all this month. Cheer up everyone!
Matt, Leeds, England
This is my favourite time of the year. However, it is becoming less so with the gross commercialism and the misuse of the holiday by many who don't even know what it is truly about. That being said, I will buy a few things online to avoid the crowds and lines but most of our gifts this year will be homemade. Technology has come a long way in aiding this. We are giving photo calendars, family cookbooks, baked goods, handmade jewellery and other things to family and friends this year.
Nell, London, UK
Our biggest expense this year will be our secret Santa where we give toys and food to a family that can't afford any. Our biggest saving will be to not spend almost �100 buying and sending cards as we did last year; we plan to send 'e-Greetings' instead - for free!
Brian, UK
As little as possible. I fail to see why corporations should profit from this.
Pete, UK
Well me being a man and all that, I do not really enjoy xmas shopping, and I leave it to the last minute, which is not good coz I'm always rushing around! But I like to spend a fair amount on the kids and my wife, but that's it! I'm lazy as well, so I do not really send no one xmas cards! I am however, going to be helping cooking the dinner this year, I want to play more of a part this year!
Bobby, UK
I'm happily divorced with a daughter and a son. Both in their 20s. They'll receive �100.00 each. Add a gift for my dear old mum and that's it! I'll just keep a low profile (as usual during the Winter), and God willing, emerge in the Spring with a nice bit of money ready to enjoy the warm weather without loads of debt. To be honest I've never seen the pleasure in spending loads of money and travelling all over the country in the worst weather to meet people who usually bore the pants off me. Hmmm, perhaps that's why I'm divorced...I'm a miserable so and so. Mind you I'm the happiest person you could meet in the Spring and Summer.
Carter, UK
| Christmas has lost its way |
Christmas has lost its way. It's no longer a season of giving, but a time to 'have'. It's now a case of children outdoing each other, the parents feeling the pressure of ensuring that the children have a vast number of presents to open on Christmas morning (most of which will be abandoned long before they finish paying for them)It's too much. Some of those people can't afford to buy new shoes for their kids by February but Christmas morning guaranteed - PS2, bikes etc. And all the children expect it because of the advertising which starts at 7am in mid October. It's wrong!
Sarah, Wales My husband and I both have divorced parents with new partners. We each have a sibling and my husband has two step-siblings. Even if we only spend, say, �20 on each of them that adds up to a lot already, even without presents for each other. And don't even start on the train fares travelling between them all and food costs. Having an extended family can be fun, but there's no way we'll manage to come in under �300.
Katherine, UK
We make a point of not being consumers of holiday Christmas junk. The only money spent will be for good food and drinks, to make the Christmas spirit at home, instead of buying it in a store (and then throwing most of it away).
Graeme, San Francisco, United States
Because of the winter solstice, I have to put half a tank of petrol in the car to see the outlaws and we are going to buy my wife's mum, dad and two siblings personal rather than extravagant gifts. I should think I am going to spend about �70 in all. Apart from my bar bill. I'd rather spend my money when I want on what I want.
Toby, Spain
I keep track of spending at Christmas by paying into a voucher scheme throughout the year. I pay �20 pounds a month for ten months and the first week in November I pick them up. By doing this it stops me from overspending and getting someone a gift that they don't want. I also make a list of who I'm buying for and of what i am buying for them and do my best to stick to it.
zeta, England
I find Christmas overly commercialised, especially the card industry. Why not make cards for your friends and family, I find a lot of the time, the effort is appreciated more than the money spent.
Scott, England
I think it is important to remember that present giving at Christmas is really for children. The annual exchange of bread making machines from those who can't afford them to those who don't want them simply clutters our homes and puts us into debt. I would suggest enjoying Christmas with friends and staying well clear of the shops!
Christian Tiburtius, UK
| I react to this commercialism by spending as little as possible |
The early-Nov to early Dec is possibly my least favourite time of year. Shops put out Christmas stock, shopping centres play carols, and offices put up decorations unseasonably early. I enjoy the family Christmas, at Christmas time, not every day since the clocks go back as we are tempted to overspend, and overeat. I react to this commercialism by spending as little as possible and as little time as possible in shops - close friends and family only make it onto the present list, presents are simple, and needed or fun - not hundreds of pounds. I estimate �100 half via internet.
Al, UK We will probably spend �200 on presents, but we have saved all year for vouchers with a Christmas Club.
Jen, UK
Christmas is a time of sharing goodwill and bringing good cheer. It does not mean that we have to be spending and leading us into debts. If every one of us are willing to pool the amount of money that we are to spent on gifts, we could have a good pool of money to be donated to those who are less fortunate than us.
Christina Spybey, United Kingdom
Online buying is not as great as some people make it out to be, apart from the fact that it saves you from a trip to the shopping centre. Speaking from experience, online buying reliability is as dodgy as it is when you go out and look for the item in the shops. And after all isn't that what it's all about? Tis the season to be JOLLY!
Jack, London
Luckily, I have bought Christmas presents for my parents, in laws and some of the friends during summer sale. As we do not wait for a special day in our family to buy something we want or need, a present is just a token of appreciation and do not necessarily have to be something expensive and extraordinary. We do not need Christmas to have a shower of presents.
Inga, England
I'm a 19 yr old amateur dance athlete in a temp job, and although i do feel it's very over commercialised, I've already spent approx. �300 for presents for other people, close friends and immediate family, as i do love to give. I've still not completed xmas shopping and guess I'll be spending about another �200-�300.Thats without cards, food, party stock and alcohol. I've never shopped online but probably resort to it as it gets closer to xmas!
ADELE HAMMOND, LONDON
Having 'missed out' on Christmas for a few years through family trauma, I'm celebrating for all it's worth with my new husband and step child. We have the money to buy decent presents and have meals out so why shouldn't we? But, even if we had nothing, I'd still be happy - I can't put a price on being with who you love. That's the best present - and it's free. Merry Christmas
Michelle, Bury St Edmunds, UK
As a debt adviser my busiest period comes after Christmas when the spending spree is over and the reality of the credit card bills hits home. Too many people spend far more than they can possibly afford.
Mike, UK
| Who cares if you end up with a little debt? |
Why are there so many humbugs in this country? Christmas is not a waste of time. It is a Christian celebration where we show our love for family and friends. Who cares if you end up with a little debt? Enjoy the celebration and watching the excitement children get when receiving gifts; knowing they are loved.
John, UK I'll be spending a stack of cash - on shares in retailers and banks. All these people who rush lemming-like to spend, spend, spend, for no reason other than "it's Christmas" will be lining my pockets. Here's to a good January!
Nige, England
How much will anyone spend? Money is hollow and empty, the present of today is the waste of tomorrow; if we 'give' instead of 'spend' then what was today's present will be tomorrows greater gift.
Peter Bourne, England
Given that the British Christmas "season" now regularly begins on November 6th, why not extend it further into January, and take advantage of the January sales for presents?
Frank, UK
This Christmas on behalf of the Salvation Army, I will be delivering a few small gifts and food parcels to families with little or nothing to eat or give each other over the Christmas period. I see more Love and gratitude in the faces of those people on receiving those items, than all the rich bods I know.
Paul Sealey, England
I refuse to buy gift certificates for family and friends. It is one of the laziest, most impersonal things to do at Christmas. I give gifts to those people who are dear to me and that means I know them well enough to choose something that will at least make them smile. I use the internet to get ideas but usually buy the gifts in person, so I can see what I'm actually getting for my money.
Lois, UK
We just send cards. Those that attend Christmas dinner will bring a plate. But I've brought three cases of good Aussies wines to enjoy the Christmas spirit.
Louise, Sydney, Australia
I know what its like to HAVE to cut down for financial reasons, but from some of these comments, I wonder if it is becoming "cool" to say Christmas is too commercialised and you are hardly spending anything. I wonder how much these people spend on a holiday? Because it is "cool" to spend lots on an exotic holiday to brag about to your friends. I only spend about �10-�15 per person, and my husband and I don't exchange presents, but it still comes to about �250-�300, it depends on the size of your family. It's hard to cut down on less per person than that, and buy reasonable presents. Incidentally I only spend about the same amount on my annual holiday.
Janet, England
Nothing except on a few pints of beer. Cheers!
Dan, UK
First of all, although we do participate in the Santa thing, Santa only brings one gift. Mommy and Daddy give a couple more. Grandparents try to overindulge but we strongly discourage more than a gift or two. We are trying, in a commercialized, materialistic world, to de-emphasize the importance of obtaining more possessions. It isn't easy. However, we find that by doing so, we enjoy the holidays more and stress less over finances. Our children seem to have a greater appreciation for the gifts they receive as well.
Sherry, Springfield, PA USA Bah humbugs the lot of ya. It's xmas, it's about getting in a bit of debt and enjoying yourselves so stop being scrooges and enjoy. Oh and merry xmas.
Ryan, N Ireland
People always say they are doing it for their children. My experience of children is that whether you spend �5 or �500 on their present they ignore the present and get hours of fun playing with the box.
Dave Tankard, UK
Britain is over-commercialised this period and the meaning of Christmas is hidden under gifts that no one affords. The fact that shops are open on Christmas Day just proves that.
Sofia Hofieda, Spain
It is pathetic, we Brits spend more than we can afford over Christmas. Christmas should be an opportunity to spend some quality time we our loved ones and not overspend just because of the commercials and the marketing. Gifts shouldn't be the first thing in our minds when we hear the word "Christmas"!
Steven Wright, London
I'm surprised to see people saying they buy Christmas presents in summer sales and cards in January sales. I never do this as I consider it to be tempting fate - anything could happen between January/the summer sales and Christmas!
Jane, Wales, UK
This year myself and partner have sponsored a child through World Vision instead of buying each other big gifts, and now that will continue every year. The rest of the family presents are still costing a small fortune though.
Sally, UK
We are not having Christmas in my family this year so the only money I'll be spending is �15 on some smellys for my woman.
Chris Coleman, UK
| I think people have had enough of spend, spend, spend |
For the first time me and my wife are spending �10 on each other, we have only been married a little while but we know that presents cannot buy love, kindness and thoughtfulness is better than anything. I think people have had enough of spend, spend, spend.
Kevin, England �300 each! We're crazy but we all love it.
Mark,
I'll be spending very little, just buying gifts for those three people closest to me. I don't see the point to spend unnecessary money, when people might not even use the gifts you buy. Those that I buy for have what they need and can go out and buy the things they want, which I think is true of a lot of people. So what is the point of buying just for the sake of it?
Laura, England
Nothing. Firstly because I'm not religious, and Christmas is a religious festival (or at least pretends to be, it's actually more of a commercial festival). Secondly, because I can't afford to, because the job sector I've worked in for the past 16 years has all but completely vanished to foreign lands, and so I'm working for a pittance, which is virtually disappearing in taxes. Happy Christmas.
Nathan, Lincoln, UK
It all depends on how much I win on the lottery?
Les Woods, England/UK
I'm a Buddhist so Christmas for me has no special meaning except for enjoying the festive atmosphere in UK. Also I'm waiting to see whether after Christmas sales will have any real bargains! I've already bought some gifts from Sri Lanka for my Spanish fianc�'s family and hope to send new year cards for friends and family.
Harini, England - Sri Lanka
I expect that the whole family will lie and say that they won't be spending much - and then buy all sorts of useless expensive crap that we don not need. Fun though!
James, UK
| For one day in the year is it really worth spending that much money? |
Not very much at all. For one day in the year is it really worth spending that much money? What's the point? Those who spend their way into debt for Christmas have clearly missed the whole point of the festive season and are fools to themselves.
Wai Ming Lee, UK Having been made redundant a third time, halving our income, I am dreading Christmas at this point. I don't care at all for myself but it's hard on the children. They never get very much as it is, now they will get even less. I would prefer it this way than going into debt though...
Jenny Barton, Kent, UK
I have purchased over 80% of presents for family and friends this year over the internet. I can't stand the crowds in Oxford Street at Christmas the whole experience is unbearable. Ordering the same goods (sometimes with a discount) on-line and having them delivered to your door beats having to stand in long queues and battling against hundreds of people to get served any day.
Nigel Ward, England
I'll probably be spending next to nil on family because they don't want unnecessary clutter. As for others, I'll go the stress-free online route, and will stick to my $130 budget spread among five or six people.
Daniel J. Hamlow, USA
Well, I spent �1,000 last year and plan to reduce it to �500 this year. Not because of economic crisis but because all of the last year gifts were useless and they didn't even remember what I gave them. So, I think I will give something cheap and eatable or useable this year.
Claire, UK
I love the excuse at Christmas to shower my loved ones with things that they don't mind accepting at last! I've recently overtaken my parents in the income stakes and it's lovely to be able to treat them for a change.
Sue, UK
For the past four years, instead of buying gifts for the grown-ups. We donate to a specific charity in their names. No objections so far. We choose nice gifts for the children, but don't go nuts and spend daft amounts of cash on hyped goods, expensive doesn't always mean better or more appreciated! I would never go into debt for Christmas. It should not be a contest to see who can spend more. I like things that have been made by the giver. Craft wins over cash! We have great Christmas's and we are not already bored by Boxing Day!!
Jan, UK �60's enough. It's not how much you spend, it's the thought that counts. Being with people you care about - that's the spirit not racking up huge debt pandering to the high streets demands of spend spend spend.
Jim, UK
I wonder how many of these people really know the true meaning of Christmas? I will be spending time with my family, worshiping and being good to my neighbours as I do on a daily basis.
Angela Brown, London
Some people will be spending a considerable amount on cab fares, thanks to the railways closing down.
Ray G, England
I have spoken to a lot of people about how i think Christmas is just a sham. When I was a little girl my family didn't get a lot of toys or food but I can remember how great they were. Nowadays kids want the latest, toy or computer game. I have told my children not to be too disappointed as Santa is on a budget this year. In the past I have nearly made my self ill worrying about have I got everything they want, not anymore. I smile to myself now when I hear other people talking about the debt they are already in just to please their spoilt kids. Remember, it's only one day.
Ally, England
| All I want to do is spend time with my family Mike Lee, Uzis spend time with my family Mike Lee, Uzbekistan |
After spending a month working in Uzbekistan all I want to do is spend time with my family and not cash on plastic rubbish that will be filling land fill sites all over the UK by January!
Mike Lee, Uzbekistan (at the moment) I have probably spent about �200 on Xmas presents over the last few months - and that won't count the petrol that it will take to drive between my home, my parent's and my in-laws. But for me Yuletide is the way to make a dark winter brighter, and I get a lot of pleasure out of seeing people enjoy the gifts I give. They don't have to be big or expensive, but they all have thought and love going into them.
Jo, UK
Yes I'll probably end up spending more than I intend to, but as I'm a student I can't really spend that much. I've been buying presents steadily so far, when I've seen things I know people will like, and it's so far been less stressful than last year. It shouldn't be the amount you spend which is important, it should be the thought that counts.
Emily, UK
One-Minute World News 
News services
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
