Christmas bucket list: things to do this festive season
Christmas is coming, with the December count down starting today. Whether you’re the type of person who puts the tree up on November first, or if you like to wait until advent for the festivities to begin – it’s always a good idea to start organising your Christmas itinerary.
‘Tis the season of spreading joy and love, so why not get into the Christmas spirit with some simple feel-good activities. We’ve collated a bucket list of must-do activities this festive season for you to try.
Bake Christmas biscuits
Who doesn’t enjoy a sweet treat? Spend an afternoon baking and decorating some Christmas biscuits. Not only are they fun to make, but delicious to eat and will leave your kitchen smelling divine. We recommend the BBC Good Food recipe! It’s quick, easy and they are really tasty: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/sparkling-vanilla-christmas-cookies
Christmas tree picking at a tree farm
Just like pumpkins, you can also pick Christmas trees – except it’s much more fun! Artificial trees are beautiful, but there’s something about a real tree that heightens the festive feel. They fill the room with a gorgeous pine aroma, have a more traditional look and provide so much joy when picking one out at a farm. Wandering through the isles browsing the heights, shapes and needles really gets you into the Christmas spirit and makes a wholesome afternoon out.
Donate to charity
Above all, Christmas is about giving back and spreading joy. Christmas can be a really challenging time for many, and lots of charities need more support than ever at this time of year. Not only does it feel rewarding to give back, but picking out toys or essentials to donate or organising a fundraiser with friends can be really fun. No matter how large the donation, every penny matters!
Go to a Christmas market
Browse the stalls for any last minute Christmas presents and treat yourself to a hot chocolate and some delicious food. The Christmas markets are always a day well spent! We recommend getting there early, or going on a weekday if you, can to avoid the crowds.
Drink mulled wine
Even if you’re a bit of a scrooge, one of the great things about December is the abundance of mulled wine. Enjoy it’s spiced goodness at a Christmas market or make some at home before settling down to watch a Christmas movie. BBC Good Food have a great recipe to try: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/mulled-wine
Send Christmas cards
There’s something special about receiving a hand-written Christmas card. Although often viewed as a dying tradition, sending Christmas cards is a lovely gesture and evokes a warm feeling of nostalgia when writing/posting them. Pick out some nice cards and spread some cheer this season by writing a heartfelt message inside – it will make both you and your loved ones smile.
Christmas movie marathon
Put on your Christmas pyjamas and curl up with a hot drink and some festive snacks before beginning a Christmas movie marathon. The ultimate feel-good films involve Santa Claus and really get you into the Christmas spirit. Some of our favourites include: Home Alone, The Grinch, Love Actually, Elf and Nativity.
Go ice skating
Seeking more of an adventure or wanting to try something new? Book an ice skating session! With rinks appearing in city centres all over the country, it’s the perfect time to try it. Make sure to bring some gloves to keep your hands warm and have fun gliding across the ice (preferably up-right).
Make a wreath
Wreath making classes pop up all over this time of year, and make a great get-together activity for friends to celebrate Christmas together. Not only is it a fun to do and something different, you leave with a personalised wreath to hang on your door!
A trip to the theatre
Fun for the whole family, there is nothing like a trip to the theatre in December. Whether you book a ballet, musical or a good old fashioned pantomime, many different productions are written to get you in the spirit and live theatre is always a great experience.
Walk through the neighborhood and look at the Christmas lights
A family favourite and a tradition in many households is having a walk through the neighborhood to look at the Christmas lights. Wrap up warm and enjoy the sparkly lights your local community have decorated their homes with. It always gets everybody excited and is nice to enjoy some fresh air in winter.
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