Just when you thought the deluge of holiday-themed programming couldn’t possibly intensify, Channel 5 throws another tinsel-laden log on the fire. “Shop Smart, Save Money for Christmas” returns with a festive special, airing Wednesday, December 4, 2024, aiming to provide viewers with a roadmap through the financial minefield that is Christmas shopping.
Hosts Gaby Roslin and Ortis Deley are back, ready to tackle the annual festive spending frenzy. This time, they’ll be focusing on helping budget-conscious viewers make the most of their holiday cash, separating the must-have bargains from the overpriced stocking stuffers.
In a twist designed to illuminate the value (or lack thereof) of branding, a family will judge a selection of pre-lit Christmas trees, blissfully unaware of their price tags or origins. This social experiment promises to reveal whether a hefty price tag truly guarantees festive cheer, or if a budget-friendly option can shine just as brightly.
Beyond twinkling lights, the episode will also cast a critical eye on home entertainment. Jon Bentley and Radio 2 film critic James King will test 55-inch TVs across various price points, seeking the sweet spot between picture quality and affordability. After all, who wants to watch “It’s a Wonderful Life” on a screen that looks like it survived the Great Depression?
Adding a practical dimension to the holiday cheer, consumer journalist Georgie Barrat will share her expertise on cashback schemes. Because let’s face it, every penny saved is another bauble on the tree (or perhaps a slightly larger turkey).
Further segments will cover everything from finding luxury candles at bargain prices to thrifty gift-wrapping hacks. And because Christmas dinner can be a culinary marathon, Gaby and Ortis will even guide a family through the world of time-saving kitchen appliances, championing the slow cooker as the ultimate holiday hero – perfect for both the main event and dealing with the inevitable mountain of leftover turkey.
Finally, because no festive spending spree would be complete without a trip to the supermarket, the show will dispense sage advice on how to avoid breaking the bank while stocking up on holiday treats. And fear not, this is just the first of two Christmas specials, doubling down on the opportunities to trim your festive budget.
Tune in to Channel 5 on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, to catch “Shop Smart, Save Money at Christmas.”
