As the festive season approaches, I can’t help but remember the year I found myself scrambling for extra cash to buy gifts.
That experience taught me a valuable lesson – there are plenty of creative ways to pad your wallet before Santa comes to town.
In this article, I’ll share some of my favorite Christmas side hustles that have helped me (and countless others) make the holidays a little merrier and a lot less stressful financially.
There’s bound to be an opportunity here that fits your skills and schedule so read this list until the end.
1. House Sitting Over Christmas Holidays
As families pack up and travel for the holidays, their empty homes need looking after. That’s where you come in!
House sitting is a cozy way to earn money while enjoying a change of scenery.
To get started, create profiles on platforms like TrustedHousesitters. Make sure you have good references and a police clearance to stand out from the crowd.
The earning potential varies, but you could make up to $1,000 per week if you’re able to rent out your own place on Airbnb while you’re house sitting.
Even without that, you’re essentially getting free accommodation, which is a significant saving in itself.
2. Christmas Holiday Pet Sitting
Pet sitting is in high demand during the holiday season. Many pet owners prefer to have their furry friends cared for in the comfort of their own homes rather than at kennels.
To be a pet sitter, create a Facebook page showcasing your pet-sitting services. Drop off flyers at local vet clinics to spread the word.
Platforms like Rover are also great for connecting with pet owners in your area.
Rates can range from $20 to $50 per day, depending on the level of care required and your experience.
Be prepared to offer services like daily visits, overnight stays, walks, and medication administration if needed.
3. Home Christmas Decorator
Many people love the idea of a beautifully decorated home for the holidays but lack the time or creative vision to make it happen.
I realized this a few years back when I helped a neighbor decorate their home for Christmas.
What started as a friendly gesture turned into a fun side hustle when word spread about my festive flair.
To be a Christmas decorator just like me, create a portfolio of your work.
This could include photos of your own home decorations or projects you’ve done for friends and family.
Advertise your services on local Facebook groups, community boards, and word-of-mouth referrals.
Offer a range of services, from simple tree decorating to full-home holiday makeovers.
You could charge anywhere from $100 to $150 for a standard home, with higher rates for larger homes or more elaborate decorating schemes.
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of any decorations you provide!
4. Outdoor Cleanup (Mowing, Whipper Snipping, Gurneying)
For most families, Christmas means outdoor celebrations. Homeowners want their yards to look pristine for holiday gatherings, but they’re often too busy with preparations to do the work themselves.
Offer services like lawn mowing, whipper snipping (weed eating), and gurneying (pressure washing).
You could also include tasks like weeding gardens, removing leaves from gutters, and even house washing.
To start this gig, invest in some basic equipment if you don’t already have it.
Advertise your services on local Facebook groups, community noticeboards, and through word of mouth.
Consider offering package deals for multiple services to entice customers.
Rates will vary depending on the size of the property and the services provided, but you could easily charge $100-$150 for a comprehensive yard cleanup.
5. Trampoline or Cubby House Assembly
Anyone who’s attempted to assemble a trampoline knows it’s no easy feat. But if you can do this, then you have a potential side gig!
Offer your assembly services to frazzled parents who want to surprise their kids with a backyard play area for Christmas.
Advertise your services with local retailers who sell trampolines and cubby houses. They might be willing to refer customers to you for assembly.
You could charge up to $100 for a large trampoline assembly, potentially more for rush jobs on Christmas Eve!
Don’t limit yourself to just trampolines and cubby houses.
Consider offering assembly services for bicycles, Ikea furniture, and other popular Christmas gifts that require some DIY skills.
6. Be a Christmas Elf or Santa or Mrs Claus for Christmas
Spread some holiday cheer and make money doing it by dressing up as Santa, Mrs. Claus, or an elf for Christmas events.
This gig is perfect for those who love interacting with children and don’t mind a bit of playacting.
If you’re interested in this gig, invest in a high-quality costume. For Santa, a realistic beard and belly padding are musts.
Meanwhile, elves need pointed ears and jingly shoes. Practice your ho-ho-hos or your best elf impression.
Advertise your services with:
- Local Councils’ Social Clubs
- Facebook Pages/Groups
- Shopping Centres
- Costume Shops
Rates can vary, but you could potentially earn several hundred dollars for a day’s work at a busy shopping center or a series of private parties.
Make sure to brush up on popular toys and trends so you can chat convincingly with the little ones about their Christmas lists!
7. Nanny, Child Care, or Caregiver Positions
Ever thought about turning your nurturing nature into a profitable venture? The holiday season presents a golden opportunity for those with a knack for caregiving.
Parents and families are often in desperate need of extra help during this bustling time of year.
To kickstart your caregiving journey, consider creating profiles on Bambino, Care.com, and Sittercity. These sites connect caregivers with families seeking assistance.
Don’t forget to highlight any relevant experience or certifications you may have – a Red Cross Babysitting and Advanced Child Care Certification can really help you find clients.
Rates for caregiving services depend on your location and the level of care required.
In some areas, you could earn upwards of $20 per hour for babysitting, with rates potentially higher for specialized care or during peak holiday times.
8. Rent Your Space
Last Christmas, I decided to rent out my spare room to travelers visiting for the holidays. Not only did I make a tidy sum, but I also made new friends from across the globe.
It truly added an unexpected saving boost during the festive season!
If you’ve got extra space in your home, you can also do what I did. The holiday season sees a surge in travelers looking for cozy, homey alternatives to hotels.
Platforms like Airbnb make it easy to list your space and connect with potential guests.
But before you dive in, ensure your space is clean, welcoming, and festively decorated.
Offer special holiday touches like a small Christmas tree or a welcome basket with seasonal treats. These little details can lead to great reviews and repeat bookings.
Depending on your location and the type of space you’re offering, you could potentially earn hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the holiday period.
Just be sure to check local regulations regarding short-term rentals in your area.
9. Sell Your Unique Recipes
Are you the go-to person for delicious holiday treats? Your culinary creations could be your ticket to some extra Christmas cash!
Food websites are always on the lookout for unique, mouthwatering recipes, especially during the festive season.
To monetize your recipes, start by perfecting your dish and writing out detailed, easy-to-follow instructions.
Take high-quality photos of both the process and the finished product. Then, reach out to food websites and blogs to pitch your recipe.
A good recipe with quality photographs could fetch you anywhere from $20 to $100 per piece.
The more unique or complex the recipe, the higher the potential payout.
10. Make and Sell Christmas Crafts on Etsy
Etsy is a goldmine for selling handmade Christmas decorations and gifts. You can sell personalized ornaments to hand-knitted stockings on this platform.
To sell your crafts on Etsy, focus on creating unique items that stand out from mass-produced decorations.
Use high-quality materials and pay attention to the finer details.
Excellent product photos are crucial – consider investing in a lightbox for professional-looking images.
Pricing is based on the complexity of your crafts. A simple ornament might sell for $10-$15, while more intricate items could command $50 or more.
11. Make Christmas Gift Baskets
Christmas gift baskets are a perennial favorite, offering a perfect solution for those hard-to-buy-for individuals on everyone’s list.
By creating and selling your own gift baskets, you can tap into this lucrative market.
Start by deciding on a theme for your baskets. This could be anything from gourmet foods to spa products to themed baskets for different hobbies.
Source your items in bulk to keep costs down, and don’t skimp on presentation – a beautifully arranged basket can command a higher price.
Advertise your gift baskets at local markets, on social media, or through local businesses.
You could even partner with local artisans or food producers to create truly unique offerings.
Price your baskets competitively – aim for the $30-$50 range for standard baskets, with premium options priced higher.
12. Sell Printables
Who knew my obsession with planning and organization would turn into a profitable side hustle?
A few years back, I created a set of holiday-themed printables – gift lists, meal planners, and festive calendars and the response was overwhelming!
Printables are all the rage, especially during the holiday season. From Christmas-themed planners to festive wall art, the market is ripe for creative digital products.
What I like best with this business is that once you’ve created your designs, you can sell them indefinitely with no additional work.
To get started, think of a printable that solves holiday-related problems. Something like Christmas card address lists or even fun holiday-themed games.
You don’t need to be a graphic design whiz – tools like Canva make it easy to create professional-looking printables. Check out our guide on making money through Canva for more ideas!
As for pricing, you can charge $3 for simple designs and up to $15 or more for more complex sets. With minimal overhead, the profit potential is significant.
13. Sell Holiday Treats
Nothing says “holidays” quite like the smell of freshly baked goodies. If you’ve got a talent for whipping up delicious treats, make this your side hustle.
Before you start, check your local regulations regarding home-based food businesses. Many areas require specific licenses or kitchen inspections.
Once you’re cleared to operate, the fun begins! Consider specializing in unique treats that aren’t readily available in stores like gourmet flavored popcorn, artisanal chocolates, or specialty cookies.
Package your goodies attractively, as presentation can justify higher prices.
To start selling, set up a Facebook page showcasing your creations. Offer samples at local events or markets.
Pricing will depend on your ingredients and time investment, but holiday treats often command premium prices.
A box of specialty cookies could sell for $20-$30, while elaborate gift baskets might fetch $50 or more.
14. Sell Christmas Cards
In this digital age, receiving a physical Christmas card feels extra special.
If you’ve got an eye for design or a way with words, creating and selling Christmas cards is a fun side gig!
Start by deciding on your niche. Will you offer funny cards? Elegant, traditional designs? Or perhaps personalized photo cards?
Once you’ve chosen your style, create a range of designs using tools like Adobe InDesign or Canva.
For selling, consider platforms like Redbubble or Zazzle. These print-on-demand services handle the printing and shipping, leaving you free to focus on design.
Alternatively, Etsy is great for selling handmade or digital download cards.
Pricing varies widely, but individual cards often sell for $3-$5, with sets going for $15-$25.
Keep in mind that if you’re handling printing and shipping yourself, you’ll need to factor those costs into your prices.
15. Hang Christmas Lights
For those who aren’t afraid of heights, hanging Christmas lights can be a lucrative seasonal gig.
To get started, buy quality equipment – sturdy ladders, reliable clips, and safety gear are must-haves.
Familiarize yourself with different types of lights and installation techniques.
You can advertise your services on local community boards, Facebook groups, and platforms like TaskRabbit.
Offer both installation and take-down services since many clients will appreciate not having to deal with either end of the process.
As for pricing, a basic installation might start at $100-$200, while more elaborate displays could cost $500 or more.
16. Sell Unique or Handmade Christmas Decorations
In previous years, we’ve seen a high demand for items that add a special touch to holiday decor.
So to begin this side gig, focus on creating items that showcase your skills and stand out from mass-produced decorations.
When it comes to selling, Etsy is a popular platform for handmade items. Craft fairs and holiday markets are also great venues.
You should also leverage social networking sites like Instagram and Facebook. They can be excellent tools for showcasing your creations.
Pricing will depend on the complexity of your items and the materials used. A simple ornament might sell for $10-$15, while more intricate pieces could command $50 or more.
17. Cater for Small Christmas Parties
The holiday season offers the perfect opportunity to turn your culinary passion into a profitable venture.
Small businesses and families often seek catering services for intimate Christmas gatherings, creating a niche market for aspiring chefs.
To be a Christmas caterer, craft a menu that showcases your specialties while incorporating festive flavors.
Some examples are cranberry-glazed ham, spiced pumpkin soup, or decadent eggnog cheesecake. Offer vegetarian and gluten-free options as well to cater to diverse dietary needs.
Once your menu is set, reach out to local small businesses and promote your services on community boards.
Consider offering package deals that include appetizers, main courses, and desserts. Through this gig, you may charge $20-$30 per person for a full meal service.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget about presentation! Invest in some festive serving platters and consider offering table decoration services for an additional fee.
18. Catering Assistant
Not quite ready to run your own catering business? No worries!
The demand for catering assistants skyrockets during the holiday season, providing ample opportunities to gain experience and earn extra cash.
Catering companies are often on the lookout for servers, kitchen hands, and bartenders to help with the influx of holiday events.
To land a gig, prepare a simple resume highlighting any relevant experience. Even if you’ve never worked in catering before, emphasize skills like customer service and attention to detail.
Reach out to local catering businesses or check job boards for openings. But be prepared for some intense, but rewarding work.
A busy night could net you $100 or more, plus you might snag some delicious leftovers!
Pro Tip: Invest in a comfortable pair of black shoes. You’ll be on your feet for hours, and comfort is key when you’re navigating a crowded party with a tray full of hors d’oeuvres!
19. Offer a Gift-Wrapping Service
Some people are talented in making presents look picture-perfect. If you’re one of them, gift-wrapping service could be your ideal holiday side hustle.
Many people struggle with wrapping oddly shaped gifts or simply don’t have the time during the busy season.
To stand out, offer a range of papers, ribbons, and embellishments.
Consider eco-friendly options like reusable fabric wraps – they’re becoming increasingly popular. You could also offer custom gift tags or cards to complete the package.
Then, market your services on local Facebook groups, community boards, and at local markets or craft fairs.
You may also partner with small businesses to offer wrapping for their customers’ purchases.
Pricing can be per gift (perhaps $5-$10 for standard sizes) or by the hour ($20-$30). Offer discounts for bulk wrapping to entice those with long gift lists.
20. Deliver Food with Doordash
As the temperature drops and the holiday hustle intensifies, more people turn to food delivery services for convenient meals.
This trend creates a golden opportunity for those looking to earn some extra Christmas cash.
DoorDash, a popular food delivery platform, allows you to work as a “Dasher” on your own schedule. You can deliver food using your car, scooter, or even bicycle in some areas.
The flexibility is perfect for fitting deliveries around your existing commitments.
To get started, sign up on the DoorDash website. You’ll need to pass a background check and have a valid driver’s license.
Once approved, you can start accepting delivery requests through the app.
Earnings vary based on location and demand, but Dashers can make anywhere from $15 to $25 per hour.
Plus, you keep 100% of your tips! I would suggest working during peak dinner hours or on weekends to maximize your earnings.
21. Seasonal Customer Service Rep
‘Tis the season for shopping, which means retailers need extra hands on deck to handle customer inquiries.
Many companies hire seasonal customer service representatives to manage the increased volume of calls, chats, and emails during the holiday rush.
To land a seasonal customer service gig, start by polishing your resume. Highlight any previous customer service experience, even if it’s not in a traditional setting.
Your experience dealing with difficult relatives at family gatherings could be more relevant than you think!
Check job boards or the careers pages of major retailers for openings. You may also want to check Amazon, Nordstrom, and Macy’s because they often hire seasonal workers.
Many of these positions are remote, allowing you to work from the comfort of your home.
Pay rates typically range from $12 to $20 per hour, depending on the company and your experience.
22. Do Online Surveys
If you’re looking for a low-effort way to earn some extra cash, try answering online surveys.
Many companies are always seeking consumer opinions, and they’re willing to pay for your thoughts.
To start answering surveys, sign up with reputable survey sites like Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, or InboxDollars. Be sure to create profiles on multiple sites to maximize your earning potential.
Also, be honest in your responses – companies often have checks in place to ensure data quality.
While you won’t get rich quick with this gig, the earnings can add up. Most surveys pay between $0.50 and $5, with some longer ones offering $10 or more.
Set aside some time each day to complete surveys, and you could easily earn an extra $100-$200 per month.
Pro Tip: Create a separate email account for survey sites to keep your main inbox clutter-free.
If you’re interested in getting started with online surveys, check out my other comprehensive guide to the 27 best paid online survey sites for more options.
23. Become a Website Tester
Ever visited a website and thought, “Who designed this mess?” Well, companies pay good money to ensure their websites don’t elicit that reaction. That’s why they hire website testers!
As a website tester, you’ll visit websites or use apps, complete specific tasks, and provide feedback on your experience.
To be a website tester, sign up with platforms like UserTesting, Testbirds, or TryMyUI. You can also check out our list of 30 legit sites that pay you to test websites.
Note that you’ll need a computer with a microphone, as most tests require you to speak your thoughts aloud as you navigate the site.
Tests typically take 15-20 minutes and pay around $10 each. Some more in-depth studies can pay up to $60.
24. Become a Virtual Assistant (VA)
With businesses ramping up for the holiday season, now is the perfect time to dip your toes into the VA world.
VAs handle a variety of tasks, from email management and scheduling to social media posting and basic graphic design. The key is to identify your strengths and market those specific skills.
To be a VA, create a profile on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr. Highlight any relevant experience and be clear about the services you offer.
You might start with lower rates to build up your reviews, gradually increasing your prices as you gain experience.
VA rates can vary widely based on skills and experience, ranging from $15 to $50+ per hour.
Even working part-time hours, you could potentially earn several hundred dollars extra per month.
25. Proofread
Your attention to detail could also land you some holiday cash! Since many businesses rush to perfect their year-end reports and holiday marketing materials, proofreaders are in high demand.
To land a proofreading gig, polish your skills with online courses or brush up on style guides.
Websites like Proofreading Services and Gramlee are always on the lookout for sharp-eyed individuals.
Rates can vary, but you could earn anywhere from $10 to $45 per hour, depending on your experience and the complexity of the material.
Pro Tip: Develop a system for catching common errors and stick to it. Your reputation for accuracy could lead to repeat clients and a steady stream of work, even beyond the holiday season.
For those looking to start a career in proofreading, we’ve compiled a list of 29 online proofreading jobs perfect for beginners if you want more options.
26. Sell Gift Cards
Unused gift cards cluttering up your wallet? Turn them into cash for your holiday shopping.
Websites like CardCash, GiftCash, and Raise allow you to sell your unwanted gift cards (Amazon, Walmart, Apple, etc) for up to 92% of their value.
The process is simple: enter the card details, get an offer, and if you accept, ship the card (or provide the online code) to the buyer. Payment is typically processed within a few days.
While you won’t get the full value of the card, it’s a quick way to convert those unused presents into spending money.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for gift card promotions throughout the year. You might be able to buy cards at a discount and resell them during the holiday season when demand is high.
27. Create and Sell Logos
For individuals with talent in graphic design, creating and selling logos could also be a fun Christmas side hustle.
Many businesses are gearing up for the new year and are looking to refresh their branding!
If you don’t know where to begin, platforms like Fiverr and 99designs allow you to showcase your skills and connect with clients.
Start by creating a portfolio of sample logos in various styles. Holiday-themed logos for seasonal businesses could be a hit this time of year so you might want b to consider this.
Prices can range from $5 for a simple design to several hundred dollars for more complex projects.
28. Become a Mystery Shopper
Retailers hire mystery shoppers to evaluate their stores, staff, and overall customer experience. So if you ever dreamed of getting paid to shop, this is the ideal side gig.
Companies like Market Force and Grassroots Assignments provide shoppers with these opportunities.
Tasks might include making a purchase, asking specific questions, or simply observing the store environment. After your visit, you’ll need to complete a detailed report.
From this gig, you can expect to earn between $10 and $25 per assignment, plus reimbursement for any required purchases.
During the holiday season, opportunities tend to increase as retailers aim to ensure top-notch service during their busiest time.
29. Flip Furniture
One person’s trash is another’s treasure, especially when it comes to furniture. With a bit of creativity and elbow grease, you can turn discarded pieces into profitable holiday decor.
Start by scouring flea markets, garage sales, and online marketplaces for potential gems.
Look for solid wood pieces with good bones but outdated finishes. A fresh coat of paint, new hardware, or reupholstered cushions can work wonders.
Once your piece is transformed, list it on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or OfferUp.
Festive makeovers, like an old dresser turned into a holiday buffet, can command premium prices during the Christmas season.
30. Have a Yard Sale
Before the winter chill sets in, why not clear out your clutter and make some cash in the process?
A pre-holiday yard sale can help you declutter and pad your Christmas budget at the same time.
You can start by gathering items from around your home that you no longer need or use. If you need more ideas on what to sell, check out our list of 41 things you can sell to make money fast.
Make sure to price them competitively – remember, the goal is to sell!
Then, advertise your sale on local community boards, Facebook groups, and with eye-catching signs in your neighborhood.
To maximize your earnings, consider timing your sale to coincide with local events or busy shopping days. Offering holiday-themed items or potential gifts can also attract more buyers.
While earnings can vary widely, a well-organized yard sale could net you several hundred dollars in a single day.
Plus, you’ll start the holiday season with a cleaner, more organized home.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up this festive list of side hustles, I’m reminded of how these opportunities have transformed my own holiday experiences.
Not only have they eased financial pressures, but they’ve also added an extra layer of joy to the season.
So don’t be afraid to get creative or combine multiple hustles – the holiday season is all about spreading cheer, after all!
Most importantly, while earning extra cash is great, don’t lose sight of what truly matters during this special time of year.
Balance your side gigs with quality time spent with loved ones and savoring the magic of the season.
Got any Christmas side gigs to share or want to give your thoughts on our list, feel free to leave a comment below!