The retailers were prepared to find the perfect alter ego for Halloween. The shelves were fully stocked while America finished digesting all the politics spewed during this year’s election.

The stores began selling items before Thanksgiving dinner even started. Now, after a month of devouring enough to feel more stuffed than the turkey, it’s time to begin the binge on the holiday season.

It can be difficult for students to collect enough pennies to buy decorations that create the aura of the holiday season. For less than $25, however, you can easily decorate in a manner that would cause the biggest Grinch McScrooge to break into the refrain of “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.”

Lights

The easiest and most affordable way to add some holiday cheer to your domicile is a set of holiday lights. Although the tiny, multicolored variety is the most popular, there are also single colored strands available.

Tiny lights usually come in 50- to 150-counts, and can be standard, flashing or color changing. A 50- or 100-count strand can cost less than $2, with the price going up as more lights and more features are added.

Usually, the tiny lights give off enough illumination so that larger counterparts are not needed. The smaller lights also tend to have more durable bulbs and cost less.

With a single strand along the ceiling or in a window, you can create a simple display that, though it won’t rival the Griswolds’, will give a nice accent to the holidays.

Door decorations

The most visible and traditional way of decorating for the holidays is to dress up your door. Whether you live in an apartment or in a dorm room, there are many interesting and fun ways to decorate a door.

The most creative way would be with wrapping paper and a large bow, giving the idea of a giant gift. Bows can be found between six and 12 inches, or larger if you can find them. For $2 to $4, you can find wrapping paper with many different designs in 20 to 120 square feet on one roll. To add some humor, you can add a tag to identify who the “gift” is for, leading to some interesting innuendoes.

A simple set of stockings can be hung on the door for each occupant, as well as some garland or ornaments to add color and variety. Garland usually comes in three styles: bead, tinsel and pine types. It comes in strands of nine to 18 feet. Ornaments come in many different designs and are affordably priced, depending on size and intricacy. Boxes of ornaments can also be bought for less than the cost of individual ornaments.

Wreaths are another traditional way to decorate your door. A simple, 20-inch wreath can be purchased for about $5, and a 20-inch pre-lit wreath can be purchased for less than $10.

Centerpieces and trees

There are many ideas for centerpieces to set on desks, tables and other surfaces. The easiest form would be a bowl of candy. There are many types, from candy canes to mint chocolates that allow your guests to enjoy your “decorations.”

Holiday stuffed animals make great additions and cost less than $5, as long as they aren’t too big.

Another good idea is holiday-themed candles; most are single or multicolored, and some have decorative designs. Some candles have holiday scents like peppermint and pine. They are also affordably priced and bring a nice addition to a room.

The most recognizable decoration is the tree. An 18- or 24-inch fake tree costs less than $10, and many decorations can be added to make the tree come to life. For about $10, a small living tree can be bought, with its own ornaments and garland.

Music

One of the best ways to create the aura of the holidays is with good music. Many types of holiday music can be bought for less than $10. Compilations of old favorites by The Rat Pack or little-known orchestras are also available.

If more contemporary artists are your thing, you can buy versions of their holiday music for less than $15.

Whatever way you choose to celebrate the holidays, the best way is to decorate with what fits your budget. Although it’s easy to decorate with $25, some of the best decorations can be made for far less — it only takes some creativity and a little bargain hunting to find what will work best for you.