Wrap the Year with Big Savings
The holidays are a great time for making new memories with loved ones. They can also be one of the most expensive times of the year. At Credit Union of Ohio, we want to help you enjoy the season and protect your wallet with a few simple smart-spending strategies.
Here are four easy ways to wrap up the year on a saving streak.
#1 Enjoy free (or low-cost) holiday events near you
You don’t always have to spend a lot to have fun! Check out these free or inexpensive holiday events in the communities Credit Union of Ohio proudly serves.
Downtown Columbus – Ohio Statehouse Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting
Thursday, December 4, 2025 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Free event with choirs, dancers, mascots, crafts, cookies and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Ohio Statehouse.
Downtown Columbus – Wanderlights
November 21, 2025 – February 15, 2026 | 5–10 p.m. daily
Stroll through more than half a million lights connecting Columbus Commons, Town Street, and the Scioto Mile for a magical (and free) downtown experience.
Grove City – Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting
Friday, December 5, 2025 at 7 p.m.
Enjoy a community parade with the official tree lighting immediately following.
Hilliard – Annual Tree Lighting
Sunday, December 7, 2025 | 3:30–6:30 p.m. (tree lighting at 6:15 p.m.)
Downtown Hilliard and Weaver Park come alive with inflatables, games, Santa, carriage rides, a free hot chocolate station, and more. Credit Union of Ohio is a proud sponsor of this event!
Niles / Youngstown area – Downtown Youngstown Holiday Parade & Flea on Phelps
Friday, December 5, 2025 | 4:00–8:00 p.m.
Enjoy vendors at the Holiday Flea starting at 4 p.m., the holiday parade at 6 p.m., and the Christmas tree lighting shortly after. OH WOW! Children’s Center is free and open to the public that afternoon, with Santa’s Workshop for kids. It’s a great option for families in the Niles area.
Parma – Frosty’s Fest
Sunday, December 7, 2025 | 1–4:00 p.m.
Held at Ridgewood Golf Club & Event Center, this community celebration by We Are Parma Proud features a Christmas parade, photos with Santa, family activities, and more.
Want to explore even more free holiday lights and events? Check out the Ohio Holiday Lights Trail for a list of some of the best light displays across the state.
#2 Save on gifting by getting creative
Holiday generosity doesn’t have to mean overspending. A few simple holiday budgeting tips can keep you on track, including:
- Set a clear spending limit per person and stick with it.
- For larger families, try a Secret Santa or gift exchange so each person buys for just one person.
- Go homemade: baked goods, photo books, framed prints, or DIY ornaments often feel more personal than store-bought gifts.
- Host a holiday décor swap with friends or neighbors to refresh your decorations and eliminate the need to buy new items.
#3 Get rewarded for sharing
One unique holiday gift you can share is the gift of saving at Credit Union of Ohio. With our member referral program, when you refer a friend or family member who joins, you can also both be rewarded! It’s an easy way to help someone you care about access low rates, fewer fees, and a more personal banking experience. Get started referring today.
#4 Schedule a free financial counseling session
Finally, give yourself the gift of a stronger financial outlook as you start a new year. A free financial counseling session with Credit Union of Ohio can help you:
- Review your budget and set up a smart spending plan for 2026
- Explore refinancing options to potentially lower your monthly payment
- Look at transferring a high-rate credit card balance to a lower-rate option
- Create a plan to improve your credit score over time
Contact Credit Union of Ohio to schedule your free financial counseling session and let’s build your 2026 saving streak together.