The economics of hosting a non-denominational holiday party
This year the wife and I decided not to participate in the ritual known as “gifting.” Our reasons are documented here as we both believe that an economic calamity is in our future. But we also decided to host our local family members in a non-denominational holiday dinner and party. The affair was a success and there were barely any leftovers, which is always my goal when I do the cooking.
So, I sat down this morning and did a rough estimate of the economics of “gifting” celebrating for 13 friends and family. Here’s the breakdown (everything was made from scratch from purchased ingredients).
Food and Drink
Shrimp cocktail (2.5 lbs.) including cocktail sauce: $27.00
8.75 lbs. prime rib: $197.00
3 lbs. asparagus: $9.00
2 lbs. zucchini medley: $3.00
3 lbs. mashed red potatoes: $3.00
1 lbs. horseradish sauce for beef: $2.00
2 lbs. prepared au jus: $7.00
Basque (burnt) cheesecake: $18.00
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages: $60.00
Energy
31 kw @ 0.06 cents/kwh (we have solar): $1.86
Total Food and Drink:: $326.00
Energy (rounding up): $2.00
Total: $328.00
Per person: $25.00 (approximately)
I’d say this was a very prudent economic choice and everyone got to take home memories and pictures.
Political message: break the cycle of hyper consumerism and we take back out country.
= new reply since forum marked as read
Don't need all that consumerism to celebrate the true spirit of the season.
2.5 lb turkey breast roast $11
Vinegar slaw
1 cabbage $2.25
1 green pepper $1
1 lg onion $1
2 packets Zezty Ital Dressing $1
1 cup cider vinegar 50 cents
2 sweet potatoes. $1.50
Butter & margerine 25-cents
1 can cranberries $1.50
1 can corn 65-cents
And gs & I will have leftovers. Very inexpensive holiday meal.
& food proc ran maybe 10 min for slaw.
Great job!
For 20 guests.
