The National Retail Federation predicts that American families will spend an average of $997.73 on Christmas gifts this year, up from $935.59 last year. While this is just an average, it's important to remember that Christmas is just one day out of the year, and it's not worth going into debt.

Here are some tips for saving money on Christmas gifts without sacrificing the fun:

Set a spending plan and stick to it. Before you start shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend on gifts. Make a list of the people you need to buy gifts for and set a spending limit for each person.
Shop around for the best deals. Compare prices from different stores and online retailers before you buy anything. Take advantage of sales and discounts, and don't be afraid to negotiate.
Consider making your own gifts. Homemade gifts are often more thoughtful and appreciated than store-bought gifts. There are many easy and affordable DIY gift ideas available online and in craft books.
Ask for help from family and friends. If you're struggling to stick to your spending plan, don't be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. They may be willing to help you by buying gifts for some of the people on your list, or by giving you money to contribute to your gift budget.

Remember, the most important things to focus on during the holiday season are the perfect gifts that God gave us, Jesus Christ and our loved ones. Spend quality time with them and show them how much you care. Gifts are just a bonus.