How to switch up your festive traditions
As the festive season rolls around, you might find yourself falling into the same old routines year after year. There’s comfort in tradition but sometimes it can feel like the magic has worn off a little.
Switching up your festive traditions can bring fresh excitement and make this year’s celebrations feel extra special. There are plenty of ways to inject a little novelty into the season without losing the essence of what you love.
Introduce a new twist on a tradition
Maybe you’re all about the family game night or watching that one classic film on Christmas Eve. Why not add a quirky twist to keep things lively? If you’ve always done a big family dinner, consider swapping the traditional menu for something a little unexpected such as a fondue night, where everyone dips their favourite ingredients into melted cheese or chocolate.
You can also modernise some old favourites. If you love your daily dose of festive countdown, why not explore new flavours with a tea advent calendar and create a moment of calm amidst the busy season?
Mix up the location or timing
If you’re used to celebrating Christmas Day in your home, why not try something different this year? Consider taking the celebration on the road, whether that’s a weekend away at a cosy cottage or a day trip to a nearby town that has a special charm during the festive season.
Timing can also play a huge role. Instead of waiting for Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve to mark the big moments, try having a festive gathering mid-December. You can call it a pre-Christmas celebration, allowing you to enjoy the holiday spirit a bit earlier and ease the pressure of an overloaded December 25th.
Refresh your décor
This doesn’t mean you need to go out and buy a whole new set of decorations (although, if you’re up for it, go ahead!). Small changes can make a big impact. Maybe swap out some of your ornaments for more contemporary designs. Use natural elements like pinecones or dried orange slices to add a rustic, organic feel or choose some Christmas plants to freshen up your living space.
One of the simplest ways to give your space a festive update is by changing up the colour scheme. If you usually go for traditional reds and greens, why not try cool blues or metallics for a fresh look? Updating key areas like the dining table or living room mantel can create a new vibe that feels exciting but still cosy.
Create new traditions
Perhaps you’ve got a love for baking, so starting a tradition of baking a different type of holiday treat every year could be a fun challenge. Or maybe you’ve always wanted to volunteer at a local charity but never had the time? This year, make it a tradition to give back, whether it’s helping at a food bank or donating to a cause you care about.
