Christmas Planning

I start planning Christmas in September to make the most of every weekend in December — mixing low-cost family traditions with a few special outings, and keeping the magic alive without overspending.

🎄 How I Plan for Christmas: Balancing Magic, Memories, and Meaning

The Start of the Magic

For me, Christmas planning begins the minute Halloween ends. I love soaking up all the magic — the lights, the crafts, the baking, and that cosy anticipation that builds as the nights draw in. As a teacher and mum, I’ve learned that December flies by, so planning it out makes sure we enjoy every bit of it without rushing.

Each weekend becomes part of the story. Some are big days out, others are simple home days filled with baking, board games, or Christmas films. Too many expensive things can actually take away from the novelty — so now, I limit it to one major festive outing a year and make the rest about togetherness.

A Season of Traditions

We start early in December with our decorations and keep things simple but special. Christmas films are my absolute saviour — we count down with them every year. Christmas walks, baking, games afternoons, craft days, and drives to see the lights have all become part of our family rhythm.

This year I’m also trying something new — a Christmas carol sing-along. I love traditional carols and feel they’ve been lost under all the pop songs, so this is my way of bringing a bit of that back.

Friends and family fit in naturally around our plans — often joining us for crafts, baking or festive walks. I also make sure to carve out some “me time” — a chance to get dressed up, go out for a festive meal, or just enjoy the sparkle of the season as an adult.

Big Outings (and Why Less Can Be More)

Over the years we’ve done everything from pantomimes to festive theme parks. This year we’ve got Sundown Adventureland lined up, which is perfect for Noah’s age, and a special stately home trip for Lily and me, as I’m trying to build a new tradition that’s just ours.

We’ve also booked some New Year’s Eve illuminations — the ideal way to fill those quiet days after Christmas when everything slows down.

Going forward, though, I want to hold back a little — maybe splurge on something extra special every other year instead. It’ll hold more meaning for the kids, and for us too.

Winter illuminations can really add to the magic.

Getting Dressed Up & Finding “You Time”

One thing I’ve learned is that Christmas isn’t just for the kids. Carving out a bit of you time helps me enjoy it all more. I always plan one evening to get dressed up — whether it’s a festive meal, a night at the theatre, or simply a catch-up with friends over mulled wine.

A little sparkle, good company, and time to feel like myself again make the season even brighter. It’s easy to forget that Christmas joy is important for adults too — not just for the children!

The Everyday Magic

It’s easy to think Christmas is all about big events, but for me it’s the little traditions that matter most. Digging out a bauble made in 2021, wrapping presents together, or snuggling up to watch Elf for the tenth time — that’s the heart of it all.

We bake on the 23rd, usually brownies or a big messy gingerbread house. We make our own decorations and cards, and I always encourage the kids to join in with wrapping presents. Even dressing up on Christmas Day feels like a small ritual that keeps the sparkle alive.

The Calm Between Christmas and New Year

Those quiet days between Boxing Day and New Year’s Eve have become some of my favourites. The rush is over, the house feels cosy, and we just slow down — films, leftovers, long walks, and board games. This year we’ve booked a light trail for New Year’s Eve, which feels like the perfect way to end the season — something gentle but still full of magic.

My December in Colour

When I look at our December plan, what I love most is the balance.

The yellow boxes are our high-cost days – big experiences like pantos or light shows that we plan carefully and look forward to.

The red ones are mid-cost, smaller outings or meals that add variety without breaking the bank.

But what really stands out are all the green home days, our chance to slow down, bake, craft, and watch Christmas films together.

It’s a reminder that the magic of the season doesn’t come from how much we spend, but from how well we mix the special days with the simple ones.

A sneak peak at my planning.

Final Reflection


 Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect or pricey — it just needs heart. 

Whether it’s a £2 craft session or a full day out, what matters most is that feeling of warmth, togetherness, and the memories we’ll carry long after the tree comes down.