December 12th: 13 Days Until Christmas—Are You Ready, UK?
Today is December 12th, which means Christmas is just 13 days away, and Christmas Eve is even closer—just 12 days to go! The holiday countdown is on, and we’re asking: Britain, are you prepared for the most wonderful time of the year?
Children: Adding a Personal Touch
This is the perfect day for kids to start crafting homemade Christmas cards for their friends and teachers. Nothing says festive cheer like a personalized, hand-decorated card, complete with glitter, stickers, and heartfelt messages. These little projects also double as a fun family activity and a way to teach children about the joy of giving.
Parents: Finalize Travel Plans or Host Prep
Parents, it’s crunch time! Whether you’re traveling to visit loved ones or hosting them at home, now is the time to confirm every detail. Double-check those train tickets, flight itineraries, or accommodation bookings. If you’re hosting, create a checklist to ensure your home is guest-ready—from bedding arrangements to grocery lists.
Grandparents: Prepping Traditional Delights
Grandparents often hold the culinary traditions of Christmas close to their hearts. This is the ideal time to prepare and freeze some classic dishes like roast vegetables, stuffing, or even Christmas pudding. These can save precious time when the big day arrives.
Turn Your Kitchen into a Winter Wonderland
Cooking and baking are at the heart of a British Christmas. This week, why not transform your kitchen into a hub of festive fun? Families can whip up gingerbread houses, mince pies, or even Yule logs. Feeling adventurous? Try international holiday treats like Eastern European spiced cookies or Middle Eastern cakes to reflect the UK’s multicultural spirit.
- For families: Baking together can be a wonderful bonding moment. Kids can handle the mixing and decorating, while grandparents oversee and share their cherished recipes.
- For modern traditions: Organize a virtual bake-off with friends or family in different parts of the country—or even overseas! A video call can turn baking into a spirited competition and bring everyone closer.
Getting into the Spirit: Lights, Music, and Movies
- Put up your Christmas lights if you haven’t already. Whether it’s a simple string of fairy lights or a full garden display, this adds magic to the season.
- Create a Christmas playlist to enjoy while wrapping gifts or sipping hot cocoa. From traditional carols to modern hits, music sets the mood for celebration.
- End the day with a family movie night featuring British classics like The Snowman or global favorites like Home Alone.
Festive Fun Across the UK: Local Christmas Ideas
Looking for ways to make the most of Christmas in your city? Here are some cheerful ideas for celebrating the season across the UK – paired perfectly with SleepsTillChristmas (https://sleepstillchristmas.co.uk/) for extra festive fun!
🎄 London
Take a stroll through Covent Garden or visit Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park. After your adventures, cozy up at home with our Christmas countdown activities and fun printable colouring sheets!
🎅 Edinburgh
Soak in the magic of the Edinburgh Christmas Market, then gather the family for some Scottish-inspired festive jokes and crafts from SleepsTillChristmas. A perfect way to end the day!
✨ Manchester
Explore the twinkling Manchester Christmas Market, then wind down with Christmas-themed jokes and our kid-friendly colouring sheets. Ideal for a warm evening at home after a chilly day out!
🎁 Birmingham
Shop at Birmingham’s famous Frankfurt Christmas Market, and when you’re done, relax with SleepsTillChristmas’s countdown games, festive tips, and more to keep the holiday spirit alive.
🎉 Brighton
Walk along Brighton Pier under sparkling Christmas lights, then bring the festive fun indoors with our printable activities and Christmas jokes. A simple yet joyful way to celebrate!
Wherever you are in the UK, SleepsTillChristmas can add a little extra magic to your holiday. Let’s make this Christmas countdown unforgettable! 🎅✨
Countdown Tip of the Day
Start wrapping gifts now! Doing a little each day ensures you’re not scrambling at the last minute, and it gives you time to add personal touches like handwritten tags or ribbon bows.
With just under two weeks to go, there’s plenty to do—but there’s also plenty of time to enjoy every step. Let’s make this countdown a magical one, UK!