Tara Lipinski to Host HGTV’s New Budget-Focused Holiday Decorating Series

A new holiday-themed competition series is coming to HGTV, with Olympic figure skater Tara Lipinski set to serve as the host. The 44-year-old gold medalist has been selected to lead Big Bargain Holiday Showdown, which aims to test participants' ability to create festive displays under strict financial constraints.

Series premise and format

The show challenges Christmas enthusiasts to generate "Yuletide magic on a dime." Across six episodes, two teams composed of friends, family members, or neighbors compete to demonstrate superior holiday spirit while adhering to a shoestring budget. Each team receives assistance from DIY experts Ashley Dixon and Clinton Tharp.

Contestants have exactly 48 hours and a $500 budget to transform one room in their home into a winter-themed wonderland. The objective is to utilize ingenious design hacks, custom projects, and smart spending strategies to achieve stunning results without exceeding the financial limit.

Judges and prizes

Stephen Brown, founder of Glitterville Studios and a holiday artist and designer, joins Pelar Fullilove, an interior designer and founder of 37th Burleigh, as judges for the series. Together, they will determine the winner of each showdown. The victorious team earns bragging rights, a cash prize, and a surprise gift from Santa.

Premiere details and episode themes

Big Bargain Holiday Showdown is scheduled to premiere on Tuesday, October 14, at 9 pm ET/PT on HGTV. The series will also be available for streaming on HBO Max starting the following day.

In the debut episode, Lipinski challenges two rival teams to transform their homes into sparkling winter landscapes using bargain finds and crafts. Subsequent episodes feature themed competitions including "Naughty and Nice," "Christmas Carol," "Santa’s Workshop," "Retro Christmas," and "Tartan Christmas."

Lipinski commented on her transition from athletic judging to hosting this creative competition. “I’ve spent my whole life being judged on ice,” she stated. “Now I’m trading the ice for a whole new type of winter competition to prove you don’t need a Santa-sized budget to make some serious holiday magic.”