Family-Friendly Holiday Activities on a Budget

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From decking the halls and shopping for everyone on your nice list, to joining in on festive activities that spread joy – the holiday season can quickly become the most expensive time of the year. Luckily, making the holidays feel magical for your family doesn’t have to come with a big price tag. Check out these low cost, family-friendly activities that are guaranteed to get the whole family in the holiday spirit.

1. Festive Walk or Drive to See Holiday Lights

Bundle up and embark on a festive walk or drive through a neighborhood that is decked out in holiday lights and classic character inflatables. Your community’s front yard displays can help transform an ordinary winter night into something special (without a price tag).

2. Holiday Movie Marathon

Bring the movie theater to your living room by hosting a holiday movie marathon! Decide on the perfect line-up of movies that will get you and your family in the spirit. Many holiday classics play free on various television networks throughout the season or can be rented on streaming services – often for a fraction of the price of movie theater tickets. Repurpose blankets, pillows, and cushions to create a cozy set-up. To elevate the experience even further, consider making a holiday-themed “concession stand” out of items you have in your pantry or that can be purchased affordably. Create a hot chocolate bar with all the fixings, make festive popcorn with holiday sprinkles, or bake seasonal cookies to enjoy.

 3. Make Homemade Ornaments

Turn your kitchen into your own version of Santa’s workshop by crafting homemade ornaments. With a few affordable supplies that can be found at local dollar and craft stores, you can create magical memories and holiday keepsakes. Not only will you end up with a Christmas tree of meaningful ornaments – they make great gifts for friends and family members, too.

If you’re looking for inspiration, check out these bead candy cane ornaments. All you need are pipe cleaners, festive colored beads, string, and ribbon!

4. Enjoy Local Events

Many towns host free or low cost events to spread holiday cheer in the community – and yours might be one of them! Keep your eye out for festive activities like Christmas tree or Menorah lightings, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and family-fun days with seasonal crafts and games. You can find activities like this posted on your town or county website, in public groups or forums on Facebook and Nextdoor, or from flyers around the community. If you’re in Monmouth or Ocean Counties in New Jersey, check out our monthly Things to Do on a Budget blog posts – which feature local, affordable, and family-friendly activities for the season.

5. Start a Gratitude Jar

‘Tis the season to reflect on everything you’re grateful for, and a gratitude jar can help you express gratitude each day of the holiday season! You can start this tradition by encouraging your family to set time aside daily to write a note expressing a moment – big or small, in which they are thankful for or that brought them joy. These notes should be dropped into your “gratitude jar,” which should be kept in a visible spot so that everyone remembers to add their note daily. At the end of the season, gather your family together to read notes from the jar. This is a great opportunity to reflect on the year and share one another’s favorite moments and memories. Plus, with the hustle-and-bustle of the holiday season – it can be easy to forget the simple things that brought a smile to your face this year.

6. Create Your Own Family Holiday Story

Tap into your family’s creative side to make a holiday story. To involve the whole crew, consider splitting up storytelling responsibilities. For example, the children can create the characters, and the parents can decide on a theme and plot. You might center your story around a task that must be completed as the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, or throw a festive holiday spin on the main character’s activities. After your idea has been developed, it’s time to bring the story to life by writing the narrative and adding illustrations. The magic of crafting a holiday tale is that the story can go wherever your imagination takes you. This activity will leave you with special memories and a story that can be incorporated into holiday traditions for years to come.

Subscribe to our First Scoop blog if you’d like to get monthly lists of low cost, family-friendly activities like this right to your inbox.

First Financial wishes you and yours a wonderful holiday season!

Holiday Tipping Etiquette: ‘Tis the Season to Show Your Appreciation

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As the year comes to a close, you may be looking for ways to thank the people around you who make your life easier. Tipping during the holiday season is your chance to show your appreciation to the service providers you rely on throughout the year.

While there is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to holiday tipping, a little guidance can help you strike the right balance.

Who should you tip? When considering whom to tip, think about the individuals who provide you with regular, ongoing services. This may include housekeepers, babysitters, teachers, dog walkers, or landscapers. If you live in an apartment or condominium, property staff, such as door attendants and maintenance workers, are also common recipients.

In addition, you don’t want to forget the people who provide you with personal care services, such as hairdressers/barbers, nail technicians, massage therapists, or personal trainers. Even mail and newspaper carriers and delivery drivers may warrant a holiday thank you.

How much should you give? The amount will depend on a variety of factors, such as your budget, geographic location, and relationship with the service providers.

For personal care providers, such as a hairdresser, a common guideline is to give the cost of one service visit. For other individuals with whom you may interact more frequently, such as a live-in housekeeper or nanny, a gift of up to one week’s pay may be more appropriate. For additional service providers, such as a garage attendant or newspaper delivery person, it is suggested that you give a cash gift of less than $30 or a small gift.1

If you live in an apartment or work in an office, fellow residents or coworkers may contribute to a pooled holiday fund for building employees.

Cash or gifts? While cash is often most appreciated, a thoughtful handmade gift can also be meaningful, especially if it is accompanied by a handwritten note.

Keep in mind that there may be instances where certain types of gifts are prohibited, so it is always best to check to make sure that a gift isn’t against a company’s policy. For example, United States Postal Service mail carriers are not allowed to receive cash gifts, checks, or gift cards.2 In addition, some workplaces may not allow employees to receive gifts of alcohol.

Questions about this topic? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534.  You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

1) The Emily Post Institute, 2025

2) United States Postal Service, 2025

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal professional.

LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial.

Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning.

This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC, TN and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2025.

No Tax on Tips Deduction Explained

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With the enactment of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in July 2025, a new deduction for tips is effective for tax years 2025 through 2028. Here is a summary of the new provision and the occupations that will be affected.

Deduction explained

Employees and self-employed individuals may deduct up to $25,000 per year of qualified tips, provided they work in an occupation the IRS views as “customarily and regularly” receiving tips on or before December 31, 2024. This deduction is available to taxpayers whether they claim the standard deduction or itemize.

Qualified tips include voluntary cash or card payments, whether given directly by customers or through tip sharing. Tips must be voluntary and do not include automatic gratuities and mandatory service charges. For self-employed individuals, the deduction cannot exceed their net income (before applying the deduction) from the business in which the tips were earned.

Eligibility details

  • Taxpayers claiming the deduction must provide their Social Security number.
  • Married couples must file jointly.
  • Married couples filing separately are not eligible.
  • Workers in excluded fields, such as health, performing arts, or athletics (and their employees), are ineligible.
  • Employers must report tips and occupation details annually to the IRS or Social Security Administration and provide statements to workers.
  • The total amount of qualified tips that can be deducted per calendar year is $25,000 regardless of filing status.

Deduction limitations

The deduction begins to phase out for single filers with Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) over $150,000 or over $300,000 for married couples filing jointly. The deduction is reduced by $100 for every $1,000 above these thresholds.

Qualifying jobs

In October 2025, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the IRS published proposed rules listing the industries and occupations that qualify for the deduction, because tipping was customary and regular in these jobs before December 31, 2024. Here are the qualifying industries with some of the most common qualifying occupations.

  • Beverage and food service: Bartenders, wait staff, baristas, bussers, cooks, dishwashers, hosts, and bakers
  • Entertainment and events: Casino dealers, musicians, DJs, performers, ushers, ticket takers, and digital content creators
  • Hospitality and guest services: Bellhops, concierges, hotel desk clerks, and housekeepers
  • Home services: Cleaners, plumbers, electricians, landscapers, HVAC repair workers, and locksmiths
  • Personal services: Nannies, babysitters, tutors, pet sitters, photographers, event planners, and personal caregivers
  • Personal appearance and wellness: Hairdressers, barbers, massage therapists, nail technicians, estheticians, and tattoo artists
  • Recreation and instruction: Golf caddies, tour guides, fitness instructors, self-enrichment teachers, and recreational pilots
  • Transportation and delivery: Valets, taxi/rideshare drivers, shuttle drivers, delivery workers, charter boat staff, car detailers, and home movers

A detailed list of occupations can be found on the website of the Federal Register.

Workers in up to 68 occupations could see their tax burden reduced by the “no tax on tips” deduction.

IRS transition relief

For tax year 2025, the IRS will provide transition relief in the form of further guidance or additional time for qualified taxpayers and employers to adapt to the new reporting requirements.

The “no tax on tips” deduction will likely affect many tipped workers in the hospitality, food service, personal care, delivery, and other industries. Both taxpayers and employers should stay updated on all reporting changes and compliance requirements.

Questions about this topic? Contact First Financial’s Investment & Retirement Center by calling 732.312.1534.  You can also email mary.laferriere@lpl.com or maureen.mcgreevy@lpl.com

Securities and advisory services are offered through LPL Financial (LPL), a registered investment advisor and broker/dealer (member FINRA/SIPC). Insurance products are offered through LPL or its licensed affiliates. First Financial Federal Credit Union (FFFCU) and First Financial Investment & Retirement Center are not registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor. Registered representatives of LPL offer products and services using First Financial Investment & Retirement Center, and may also be employees of FFFCU. These products and services are being offered through LPL or its affiliates, which are separate entities from and not affiliates of FFFCU or First Financial Investment & Retirement Center.

Securities and insurance offered through LPL or its affiliates are:

The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax planning or legal advice. We suggest that you consult with a qualified tax or legal professional.

LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial.

Content in this material is for general information only and not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

CRPC conferred by College for Financial Planning.

This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the state(s) of CT, DE, FL, GA, MA, NJ, NY, NC, OR, PA, SC, TN and VA. No offers may be made or accepted from any resident outside the specific states referenced.

Prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions Copyright 2025.

DIY Holiday Crafts and Treats Good Enough to Gift

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This holiday season, the most meaningful presents don’t always come from a store – they come from the heart. Handmade gifts show thought, care, and creativity – plus they’re a great way to celebrate the season without stretching your budget.

Here are a few DIY gift ideas that are simple to make, will go easy on your holiday budget, and are guaranteed to bring joy. Click each link below for additional inspiration:

  • Handmade ornaments. Try festive ideas like cinnamon-stick ornaments, yarn trees, decorated mason jar lids, or cozy holiday gnomes.
  • Homemade treats. A batch of holiday cookies, spiced nuts, or peppermint bark is always a hit and adds a personal touch to any gift basket.
  • DIY self-care gifts. Create your own candles, bath salts, or sugar scrubs – perfect for someone who could use a little extra relaxation.
  • Memory jars or handwritten cards. Fill a jar with favorite memories, affirmations, and “open when” notes, or craft a beautiful handmade card.
  • Crafted home décor. Think mini craft-stick trees, homemade garlands, or stovetop simmering spice jars for cozy holiday vibes.

Why go handmade?

  • Handmade gifts feel more personal and meaningful.
  • They’re budget-friendly during an expensive time of year.
  • Crafting gives you a chance to slow down, get creative, and enjoy the season.

This holiday season, trade in the shopping rush for handmade magic. Whether it’s a batch of cookies, a soft-lit candle, or a homemade ornament – you’ll be giving more than a gift, you’ll also be giving meaning.

From all of us at First Financial, happy crafting and Happy Holidays!

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Things to Do on a Budget in Monmouth & Ocean Counties this December 2025

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Check out these free or inexpensive events in Monmouth & Ocean Counties that are sure to deliver big holiday cheer without stretching your budget!

December 1

Magic Of Lights: Drive-Through Holiday Experience (Holmdel) – Buckle up and drive right into the holiday spirit at PNC Bank Arts Center through December 30th, beginning at 5pm each evening. You will drive through a selection of dazzling lights, classic holiday scenes, and well-known characters. You can also venture to the village to take pictures with Santa, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate, and enjoy festive activities. Ticket prices vary. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

December 2

Christmas Tree Lighting (Freehold) – There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than by counting down to see a Christmas tree twinkle to life! Stop by the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at the Hall of Records from 5pm-7pm, with a rain date of December 3rd. Bundle up, grab a cup of hot cider, and enjoy a choir performance – and a very special holiday guest may join in, too!  There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn more.

The Village at Anne Ellen (Manalapan) – Experience holiday magic on select dates through December 30th between 5pm-9pm. You will embark on a nostalgic wagon ride that will drop you off at the village – and begin an enchanting journey through illuminated pathways, festive displays, cozy scenes, and charming shops. Tickets must be purchased online, and the admission price varies. Click here to purchase tickets and experience an unforgettable evening of festive cheer.

December 3

Winter Holiday Lighting (Marlboro) – Join Marlboro Township in the annual lighting of the Menorah, Christmas Tree, and Crescent beginning at 6pm. There will be live holiday music, family-fun activities, a dessert buffet, and character appearances from Santa, Miss Elf, and Little Dreidel. Learn more here.

December 5

Christmas Tree Lighting (Toms River) – Stop by the Christmas Tree Lighting at 33 Washington Street in Downtown Toms River from 5:30pm-7:30pm. With live entertainment, family activities, and a special visitor from the North Pole – we can’t think of anything that will get you in the holiday spirit faster! There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

U-Pick Tulips: Winter Wonderland (Cream Ridge) – Holland Ridge Farm has bloomed into a Winter Wonderland through January 4th. Twinkling holiday lights and all the festive classics are scattered amongst the tulips, creating an event that might become your newest holiday tradition. Santa will be making a trip down from the North Pole on select dates, too! Admission ranges from $17 to $25, and children ages 2 and under are always free. Click here to learn more and purchase tickets.

December 6

Hometown Christmas (Lavalette) – This Lavallette tradition is back to spread hometown holiday cheer from 11am-3pm. You can stroll through town, pop into participating local businesses to enjoy various festive crafts, and embark on a horse and carriage ride alongside Santa. There are additional details on the Lavallette Beach NJ Facebook page.

Winter Wonderland (Toms River) – Downtown Toms River will transform into a winter wonderland for the community to enjoy from 11am-4pm. There will be holiday music drifting through Washington Street, as well as family fun activities, caroling, face and ornament painting, holiday story time, and more. Your favorite local businesses and vendors will be selling various handcrafted gifts, bringing the holiday shopping to you! There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Click here to see how you can ring in the holiday season in Downtown Toms River.

December 7

Breakfast with Santa (Shrewsbury) – Your little one can tell Santa their Christmas wish list over a delicious, hot breakfast at the Shrewsbury Firehouse from 9am-12pm. Everyone is encouraged to come hungry, festive, and ready to smile for a picture with Santa. Admission is $10 for those ages 4 & up, and free for those ages 3 & under. Additional information can be found here.

Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting (Holmdel) – There will be double the lights and double the cheer at the Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting at Town Hall from 4pm-6pm. From free hot chocolate and an inflatable snow maze with a gingerbread obstacle course, to face painting and a DJ mixing classic holiday hits – everyone in the family is sure to have a jolly good time. Plus, you can give Santa a warm welcome when he arrives with the help of the Holmdel Fire & Rescue. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to learn more.

Holiday Jingle Sip & Shop Vendor Market (Toms River) – Jingle all the way home after an afternoon of sipping and shopping at Garden State Distillery from 12pm-4pm. Local makers, artisans, and small businesses will be selling unique items perfect for someone on your list. If you are over 21 years of age, your shopping can be made even more festive with the help of a seasonal craft drink from the distillery. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

December 13

Brunch with Santa & Children’s Holiday Shopping Bazaar (Toms River) – Join Santa for brunch and holiday shopping at the Toms River Elks #1875 from 9am-1pm. Your little ones can share their wish lists and take photos with Santa. They can then take the reins at the holiday shopping bazaar – where items are all priced at $10 or less. Tickets are $12 for those ages 12 & up, and $6 for those ages 12 & under. Tickets will also be available for purchase at the door, but will be cash only. Pre-payment for seating is strongly encouraged. Click here to find additional information and make your reservation.

Holiday Made in Monmouth (Lincroft) – If you still have people to shop for on your “nice list,” head to Brookdale Community College from 10am-4pm. With over 200 local vendors selling one-of-a-kind items, you’re sure to go home with something for everyone on your list. There is no entry fee to attend, but there will be items available for purchase. Learn more here.

School of Rock Jingle Jam (Brick) – Enjoy an afternoon of family fun activities from 11am-2pm. There will be live performances by student musicians, festive crafts, and pictures with Santa. You’ll also have the chance to become an instant star by joining a spontaneous rock band. There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

December 16

Menorah Lighting (Howell) – Join the community in the annual tradition of lighting the Menorah at the Howell Municipal Building, beginning at 5:30pm. In addition to lighting the Menorah, there will be free hot drinks and pastries to enjoy. There is no entry fee to attend. Click here to view the event details.

December 21

Christmas at Allaire (Wall) – The Historic Village at Allaire is being transformed into the North Pole from 11am-4pm. Shop for seasonal goods as you enjoy the sound of live carolers and sip on cozy hot chocolate – and maybe run into Santa too. Step back in time and celebrate the holidays the Victorian way, with ornament making and traditional party games. Tickets can be purchased online for $13.58 for those ages 4 & older, and this event is free for those ages 3 & under. You can find more details and purchase tickets here.

December 31

First Night New Year’s Eve Celebration (Seaside Heights) – Ask yourself, “How is it already 2026?” at this family fun event at Seaside Heights Boardwalk from 1pm-5pm. With magic, wildlife, bubble and sing-along shows, to photo ops with your favorite characters – you’re in for an action-packed afternoon! The celebration ends with a balloon drop and countdown to the new year that will have the family in bed before midnight. There is no entry fee to attend. Learn more here.

Twilight Fun Run/Walk & Party (Manasquan) – Start the new year on a good foot at this 2-Mile Fun Run or Walk, beginning at Leggett’s Sand Bar at 4pm. Participating is a two-for-one deal – you can end 2025 as a 10,000-step day, and then enjoy a free buffet at Leggett’s. The Fun Run costs $35 per runner/walker, or $20 for those just looking to join in on the fun at the party afterward. Pre-registration is encouraged. Click here to learn more and “run” into 2026 in a unique way.

On behalf of the team at First Financial, we wish you and yours a joyous holiday season. We look forward to serving the Monmouth and Ocean County community with the same dedication and personalized financial service in 2026.

How to Support Small Business This Holiday Season

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The holiday season is now in full swing and while the rush to find gifts, plan meals, and celebrate can be overwhelming – it’s also the perfect time to make your spending count locally. Supporting small, independent businesses helps strengthen our communities, boosts local economies, and ensures your dollars go further – often staying in the neighborhood instead of to distant corporations.

Here are some meaningful, practical ways to show support for small businesses this holiday season.

1. Buy Gift Cards from Local Shops, Restaurants, or Service Based Businesses

Gift cards are a win-win during the holidays. When you buy a gift card from a small retailer or local restaurant:

  • You give someone a flexible gift that’s close to home.
  • You help that business with immediate cash flow, which matters during the busy holiday season.
  • You may even encourage repeat business – the recipient may return later and discover more products or services they love.

Whether it’s for a cozy café, boutique clothing, a neighborhood bookstore, or the local spa – gift cards help our small businesses stay afloat and grow.

2. Do Your Holiday Shopping Locally, in Person or Online

Skip the big box store crowd or massive online retailers for at least part of your holiday shopping. Instead, visit neighborhood shops, boutiques, and artisans — or check out their small-business e-commerce websites.

Many small businesses offer online ordering, local delivery, or curb-side pickup – making holiday shopping from home or on a schedule much easier. Buying from them helps keep money circulating locally – sustaining jobs, community services, and the unique character of your hometown.

3. When Ordering Holiday Meals or Treats, Opt for Local Eateries

The holidays often mean busy schedules, long workdays, or late-night prep – which can make fast food or big-chain takeout tempting. This year, consider ordering from a local restaurant or bakery instead. By doing so, you:

  • Support local workers and business owners when many smaller eateries depend heavily on holiday revenue.
  • Help maintain the local food culture, keeping unique tastes and homegrown menus alive in your neighborhood.
  • Often get fresh, more personalized meals – and maybe even help someone feel appreciated by ordering from a small, caring team.

4. Write Positive Reviews for the Local Businesses You Use

If you’ve had a good experience, whether it’s a great gift shop find, friendly service at a café, or delicious carry-out – take a minute to leave a public review.

Positive reviews help small businesses build visibility, trust, and a broader customer base, especially during the holidays when many people search online for gifts, food, or services. A kind review is a low effort but high-impact way to support your community’s businesses.

5. Spread the Word

Word-of-mouth and social sharing remain among the most powerful ways to support small businesses.

  • Share your favorite shops or restaurants with friends and family.
  • Recommend local businesses when someone asks for gift ideas.
  • On social media or within community groups, highlight small businesses you love.

Each share raises awareness and may bring new customers to those businesses.

6. Plan Ahead and Shop Early

Small businesses can get overwhelmed during peak holiday demand. By shopping early, you:

  • Help avoid stock shortages or long lead times.
  • Ease stress for small shop owners so they can better manage orders, staffing, and customer service.
  • Give yourself more gift giving flexibility, and allow local businesses to deliver better service.

 The Impact of Shopping Small

  • Local businesses are more likely to keep profits in the community, supporting neighborhood jobs, schools, and services.
  • Each holiday purchase at a small shop helps independent businesses compete during a season often dominated by big box retailers.
  • Shopping small helps preserve the unique character and culture of neighborhoods, making towns more vibrant, personal, and community-oriented.

As we head into Small Business Saturday (November 29, 2025), choosing to shop local is a small decision that can make a big difference.

Make This Season a Community Win

 Whether you’re buying gifts, ordering takeout, or doing your regular errands – consider making local businesses part of your plan this holiday season. A small shift in where you spend can help keep jobs, culture, and community thriving.

At First Financial, we believe supporting small businesses is one of the best ways to fuel shared prosperity. Check out some of our local business members this Small Business Saturday and throughout the season. Happy Holidays and don’t forget to shop local!