It’s that time of year again – the Christmas Countdown has begun! Here’s your fun, festive checklist to keep you organised, stress-free, and full of festive cheer as we count down to the big day. Ready, steady, jingle!
Christmas Countdown – November
6 Weeks to Go – Prep & Plan 🎅
- Set Your Budget: Start by setting your Christmas budget. Decide how much you’ll spend on gifts, food, and festive fun.
- Make a Master List: Grab a notebook or app, and list everyone you plan to gift. From family to friends to teachers, list them all!
- Plan Travel: Heading out of town? Book travel and accommodation early to save money and hassle.
- De-clutter Your Space: Before the Christmas decorations come out, do a quick de-clutter. This makes space for all the new goodies (and leaves room for your Christmas tree!).
Top Tip: Not sure what to get someone? Make a note of any hints they drop this month!
5 Weeks to Go – Start Shopping 🛍️
- Gift Shopping Begins! Take advantage of early sales and avoid last-minute panic. Try to tick off a few names from your list each week.
- Order Christmas Cards: Pick out some festive designs and order your cards. Personalised cards? Now’s the time!
- Plan DIY Gifts: Handmade gifts add a personal touch. Gather supplies for any crafts you want to make.
- Decor Prep: Untangle last year’s fairy lights and check they’re working. Need replacements? Add them to your list!
Fun Idea: Start a gift-wrapping station. It’ll keep your wrapping paper, bows, and tags in one organised spot.
4 Weeks to Go – Decorate & Write Cards 🎄
- Deck the Halls: Get those decorations up! Set the scene with your tree, tinsel, and maybe even a cheeky bit of mistletoe.
- Write Christmas Cards: Dedicate an evening to writing out your Christmas cards. Get them ready for sending next week.
- Plan the Menu: Think about what you’ll be serving on Christmas Day. Create a rough menu and note any ingredients that need pre-ordering.
- Organise Festive Outfits: Christmas jumper day at work? Party outfits? Get them ready now!
Pro Tip: Set up a Christmas playlist to keep the festive vibes rolling!
Christmas Countdown – December
3 Weeks to Go – Wrap Gifts & Finalise Plans 🎁
- Start Wrapping Gifts: Wrapping a few presents each day will help avoid the last-minute scramble.
- Send Christmas Cards: Pop your cards in the post early to beat the seasonal rush!
- Confirm Travel & Reservations: If you’re dining out or hosting, make sure all arrangements are confirmed.
- Stock Up on Supplies: Batteries, tape, and spare bulbs – the unsung heroes of Christmas! Make sure you have them on hand.
Top Tip: Label each gift with the recipient’s name to avoid mix-ups on the big day.
2 Weeks to Go – Food Shopping & Finishing Touches 🛒
- Do a Pre-Christmas Food Shop: Stock up on non-perishables, snacks, and treats. Keep an eye out for mince pies and festive drinks!
- Prepare Guest Rooms: If family or friends are staying over, get your guest rooms ready with fresh linens and festive touches.
- Plan Christmas Eve & Boxing Day: Decide what you’ll be doing the day before and after Christmas. More festive fun? Yes, please!
- Check Your Christmas Playlist: Update it with new tunes or classic favourites to keep everyone in the festive mood.
Handy Hint: Freezing food? Label and organise so you can easily find everything you need.
1 Week to Go – Christmas Countdown to the Big Day! 🎉
- Final Fresh Food Shop: Grab your last-minute fresh items – from veggies to dairy to those sneaky extra treats!
- Double-Check Your List: Have you missed anyone? Now’s your chance to pick up any forgotten gifts.
- Recharge: Make time for a festive film night or a hot chocolate break. You’ve worked hard – enjoy some Christmas magic.
- Set Up Santa Snacks: Prepare a plate with cookies, carrots, and a glass of milk (or something stronger) for Santa and his reindeer.
Final Tip: Take a deep breath, relax, and get ready to enjoy a perfect Christmas!