As the holiday season quickly approaches, many people will be overcome with the task of cooking for the holidays, decorating, buying presents, hosting parties and many other events which can require spending money.

While the timespan from November-January can seem like a never-ending rush, there are still ways to save money, slow down and remember the real reason for the season.

Sometimes, it can be easy to become caught up in the glitz and glamour of holidays while ignoring the true meaning.

Being surrounded by a supportive group of family and friends can help reinforce the special traditions of the season.

American writer Ben Hecht once said “kindness, tolerance, integrity, modesty, generosity – these are attributes that events permit us. They are our holiday moods, and we are as proud of them as of the fine clothes we have hung away to wear on occasions.”

This season, try to take advantage of the many free opportunities in your own backyard to celebrate the holidays as a community.

In Charlotte County, the Keysville Christmas Parade, the Phenix Christmas Parade and the tree lighting ceremony in Charlotte Court House are just a few of the upcoming activities available in the county each year that are free of charge to observe.

Getting out in the community and fellowshipping with your neighbors can be just as invigorating as staying home and hosting your own party, which could require much prep work and funds, ultimately leading to a stressful situation.

When we plant our roots in a community, we are not only a resident, but we are also a member of the family that has been built by the community as a whole.

Let us enjoy the local activities available to our family, pitch in a helping hand when needed and find our own kindness, tolerance, integrity, modesty and generosity through the holiday spirit.

Italia Gregory is community editor of The Gazette. Her email address is Italia.Gregory@TheCharlotteGazette.com.