Everything you should know about Christmas 2024

No need to flip through your calendar or scratch your head wondering what day of the week Christmas falls on in 2024. We've got you covered! Here's a quick rundown:

Christmas Eve is on Tuesday, 24th December. Christmas Day is on Wednesday, 25th December. Boxing Day is on Thursday, 26th December.

Now, why is this good news, you ask? Well, let's take a look:

• Long Weekend: With Christmas Eve falling on a Tuesday, by taking one day of vacation you'll have a long weekend to kick-start the festivities. It's a perfect chance to wrap up those last-minute presents or simply unwind before the big day.
• Extra Day Off: Christmas Day on a Wednesday means an extra day off work for many of us, so we can revel in the joy of the festive season and spend quality time with our loved ones without the worry of work looming overhead.
• Spread The Celebrations: With Boxing Day on a Thursday, you can spread out the celebrations, making the most of this joyous time. More time for family, friends, and of course, leftovers!

So, there you have it. Not only do you know when to mark your calendar for Christmas 2024, but you also have a few good reasons to be chuffed about it!

How can I count down to Christmas?

Well, my festive friend, the best way to countdown to Christmas is with a personalised advent calendar! Picture this: every morning, you saunter down the stairs to find an advent calendar with your name on it, or even better, your favourite photo. You open a little door and out pops a piece of chocolate, melt-in-your-mouth goodness from a variety of top-notch chocolate brands. Choose from Milka, Toblerone or Kinder Happy Moments chocolate. Not only do they have that perfect holiday flavour, it also feels like the anticipation of Christmas is all about you!

And it's not just for you! Personalised advent calendars are a fun-filled tradition for all of your loved ones. Picture your grandparents' faces lighting up as they find their own names on a cute, Christmassy calendar, or your partner's delighted surprise when they see an adorable photo of the two of you. And let's not forget about the children! Can you imagine the joy on your little one's faces as they jump out of bed every morning, eagerly rushing to see what chocolate surprise awaits them? Or the giggles of your nieces and nephews as they discover a new, tasty treat each day in the lead up to Christmas? It's like a mini Christmas morning every day in December! But don't just stop at family. Friends, colleagues, even your postman might appreciate a little festive cheer! Who wouldn't want to start their day with a delightful piece of chocolate, courtesy of a thoughtful personalised advent calendar? It's a splendid way to spread the holiday spirit and bring a little joy to everyone on your Christmas list. So, here's to a more delicious, more personal, and more exciting countdown to Christmas 2024!

When did Christmas originate and how did it become the most celebrated holiday in the world?

Well, let's take a trip down memory lane, shall we? The holiday we all know and love as Christmas can trace its origins back thousands of years to both religious and non-religious traditions. The name 'Christmas’ comes from the old English term 'Cristes Maesse', which means 'Christ's Mass' and is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ for Christian communities. However, it's also worth noting that many of the traditions we associate with Christmas, such as decorating trees and feasting, have their roots in ancient pagan celebrations like the Roman Saturnalia and the Germanic Yule. These festivals, held around the winter solstice, marked the end of the harvest season and the coming of longer days, and were filled with merrymaking, gift-giving and lots of good food. Over hundreds of years, these traditions have gradually woven together to create the Christmas we know today. It's a holiday that unifies us in peace, joy and love, regardless of our beliefs or backgrounds. While some people celebrate Christmas as a religious festival, others view it as a cultural event, and many people - perhaps yourself included - see it as a mix of both. There's no right or wrong way to celebrate Christmas, as long as it brings you joy!

But let's not forget the most important part of Christmas - spending time with loved ones, be they family, chosen family or friends. Whether you're exchanging gifts, sharing a festive meal, or simply sitting around the tree and having a good ol' chinwag, it's these precious moments of togetherness that truly embody the spirit of Christmas. So, no matter what you believe or how you celebrate, remember that the heart of Christmas 2024, like every other Christmas before it, lies in love, joy and a heaping dose of goodwill. So, get ready to make some splendid memories and remember to order your personalised Christmas gifts for 2024!

When should I put my gifts under the Christmas tree?

Well that's a cracker of a question! And the answer is - it's totally up to you and what suits your family or situation best. But here's a look at some popular options!

For some, the Christmas tree becomes a sort of advent calendar, a gift popping up under it each day as we count down to the big day. It's like a Christmas miracle every morning! Or you could go for the 'all at once' approach. As soon as that fir is up and sparkling, BAM, gifts galore! It's an instant Christmas wonderland.

Then there's the staggered method. Some gifts trickle in throughout December, and then a few special ones appear on Christmas Eve, after the kiddies are tucked up tight, dreaming of sugar plums and all that jazz. It's a lovely way to keep the magic of Father Christmas alive.

And speaking of magic, remember to keep any gifts that may tempt your four-legged family members out of reach. No one wants to find Fido has had a nibble of their new slippers before they've even seen them!

When is Christmas Eve?

Christmas Eve, the day before Christmas Day, is always on the 24th of December. In 2024, that means it's going to fall on a Tuesday, so you could be looking at a long weekend of festivities. There's nothing quite like the excited anticipation that fills the air on Christmas Eve, it's practically electric!

So, how can you make the most of this magical day? Well, first of all, it's a prime time for putting out some treats for Father Christmas and his reindeer.

Perhaps get the kids involved in leaving a glass of milk, some delightful biscuits (let's hope Santa's not on a diet!), and maybe a carrot or two for his faithful reindeer. It's a tradition that adds a sprinkle of charm to the festivities. And it's also a clever way to encourage the little ones to head off to bed early!

Remember, the kiddies need to be fast asleep before Father Christmas makes his appearance. After all, it's well known that Santa only visits when everyone's snoozing. So, get those bedtime stories ready and tuck them in tight, and then it's time for the grown-ups to enjoy a mince pie or two in peace. Ah, the joys of Christmas Eve!

When should I start celebrating Christmas?

Now there's a question that sparks debate! When should we break out the tinsel and mince pies and start spreading the festive cheer? Well, it's all down to personal preference. Some folks, the Christmas super-fans, might start their celebrations as soon as the last firework fizzles out on Bonfire Night (5th November, for the uninitiated). These are the people who have their Christmas tree up and twinkling as soon as possible. They just can't get enough of the holiday spirit! Then you have the traditionalists, who prefer to wait until 12 days before Christmas to start their celebrations. These folks often kick off their Christmas festivities on the 13th of December, following the Christian tradition of the 12 days of Christmas. It's all about that anticipation, the slow and suspenseful build-up to the big day. Of course, there's also the pragmatic approach. If you're one of those wonderful people just love to make the most of the entire period running up to Christmas, there are plenty of fun activities to enjoy.

Now, let's talk about some jolly good activities you can do leading up to the big day.

First off, who could resist the age-old tradition of baking cookies? Whether you're a master baker or a first-time dough handler, this activity promises to fill your home with a heavenly scent, and your belly with yummy treats. Not a fan of cookies? No worries! Gingerbread houses are a wonderful alternative, and they double as an adorable decoration.

• Next on the agenda: Christmas movies! There's nothing like snuggling under a comfy, cosy fleece blanket featuring the design of your choice, personalised Christmas mug full of hot chocolate in hand, and losing yourself in a Christmas classic. From 'Home Alone' to 'Love Actually', there's a festive flick to suit everyone's taste. And don't forget to sip on a glass of mulled wine for that extra layer of warmth and holiday spirit.
• Now, if you're the food enthusiast type, putting together your Christmas menu can be an absolute delight. It's the perfect time to get creative with those festive recipes, or just stick to the classics. Whatever floats your boat, really.
• Christmas markets? Yes, please! The twinkling lights, the smell of roasting chestnuts, and the overall atmosphere are enough to make anyone’s heart grow three sizes. And, last but certainly not least, why not spend a fun afternoon making Christmas cards with the kiddos? Not only will it keep them entertained, but it'll also give them a chance to add a personal touch to their holiday greetings. Upload their drawings in our online editor and create your unique Christmas cards for 2024 in no time at all!

When should I unwrap and give Christmas presents?

Ah, the million-pound question! When is the perfect moment to unwrap those tantalising Christmas presents? Well, believe it or not, there's no set rule for this one. It's all about what feels right for you and yours. Some of us can't resist the temptation and dive into gift-giving on Christmas Eve, turning it into a joyous pre-Christmas celebration. What could be more magical, after all, than watching your loved ones' faces light up like a Christmas tree as they unwrap their presents under the soft glow of fairy lights?

Now, for many, the present-unwrapping ceremony takes centre stage on Christmas morning. It's a time-honoured tradition, isn't it? Waking up at the crack of dawn - who needs a lie-in when there are gifts waiting to be explored? There's something truly heartwarming about gathering around the tree in your PJs, a steaming mug of cocoa in hand, and sharing in the excitement of giving and receiving.

And then, there are those who choose to spread the gift-giving joy over the course of the day. You might have a 'main event' in the morning, and then smaller, more intimate exchanges as you see friends or family members throughout the day. It's like having multiple Christmases all in one day! Plus, spreading out the gift-giving means you can really take the time to appreciate each present, and the thought that went into it.

As for the 'how' of unwrapping, again, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Some families prefer to take turns, allowing each person to bask in the spotlight as they unwrap their gifts. Others might opt for a free-for-all, a whirlwind of ripping paper and flying bows. And honestly, both are pretty fabulous in their own ways.

So, whether you're a Christmas-Eve opener, a crack-of-dawn unwrapper, or a throughout-the-day gifter, remember that it's the spirit of giving that truly counts. And hey, why not elevate the joy of giving by ordering personalised Christmas gifts for 2024? Trust us, nothing says 'I care' quite like a tailored, thoughtful present.

When should I put up my Christmas decorations?

The moment to deck the halls with boughs of holly (and tinsel, and baubles, and all that jazz) can vary widely. There are those who believe in the 'earlier the better' philosophy. For them, the Christmas decorations go up straight after the last Halloween pumpkin has been tossed away. They're the folks who are ready to jingle all the way from November 1st, and we say, more power to them! After all, if Christmas decorations make you happy, why not enjoy them for as long as possible?

Then there are the 'traditionalists', who might wait until the start of Advent, which begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. This year, Advent starts on December 3rd, so that could be the perfect time to start festooning your home with festive cheer.

And let's not forget about the '12 days before Christmas' crew. These folks stick to the age-old tradition of putting up their Christmas decorations 12 days before Christmas, which would be the 13th of December. Their decorations often stay up until Epiphany on January 6th, following the Christian tradition.

Whether you're an early bird or a last-minute decorator, the most important thing is to enjoy the process. After all, putting up Christmas decorations is about more than just making your home look festive. It's about the joy of anticipation, the family traditions, and the warm, fuzzy feelings that come along with it. So, crank up those Christmas tunes, get the mince pies out, and have yourself a merry little decorating session!

Now, let's talk about the star of the show, the Christmas decorations! I mean, is it really Christmas without a house full of glittering, gleaming, joy-spreading decorations? I think not. Where to start? Christmas baubles, of course! These shiny orbs of joy are a must-have for any Christmas tree. You can personalised yours with your very own design, so you can mix and match to create your perfect festive look. Fancy something a bit different this year? How about some engraved wooden ornaments? Not only do they give a lovely rustic touch, but they can also be personalised with names or messages, making them the perfect keepsake.

Then there are the candles. Nothing creates a cosy, festive atmosphere quite like the soft glow of candlelight. Whether you add photos or a beautiful message, candles are a sure-fire way to fill your home with Christmas cheer. And don't forget the scented ones, such as our lovely jasmine & vanilla scented candles, they're a feast for the senses!

But it's not just about decorating the tree and lighting candles. No, no, no! Your Christmas table deserves some love, too. Start with some engraved glasses for that extra touch of elegance. Add a personalised wine cooler to keep your Christmas tipple chilled to perfection. How about personalised photo placemats to add a dash of fun and a sprinkle of nostalgia? And let's not forget personalised napkins. Not only are they practical, but they also add a delightful personal touch to your Christmas table.

Why you should start planning your 2024 Christmas festivities now

Now, why should we start planning Christmas 2024 now? Well, who doesn't love being ahead of the game? Imagine this - it's December 2024, and while the rest of the world is in a frenzy, you're sipping mulled wine, feet up, smug as a bug in a rug, because you've already sorted everything. Sounds dreamy, doesn't it? Early planning means less stress, more choice, and the luxury of time to find those perfect personalised gifts.

Spread the cost

But it's not just the gifts that benefit from an early start - your pocket will thank you, too! By spreading out the cost of Christmas over a longer period, you can avoid the dreaded January blues when the credit card bill arrives. Instead of a mad dash to buy everything in November and December, you can pick up bits and pieces throughout the year during sales or discounted periods. And don't forget, early planning also gives you time to create a detailed budget so you can keep track of your spending. Now that's what I call smart shopping!

Deck the halls in style

Oh, and let's not forget about the decorations! Planning ahead means you can accumulate a collection of gorgeous decorations over the course of the year. No more settling for whatever's left on the shelf in December. Instead, curate a collection that represents your family's style and brings joy to your home. From the perfect tree ornaments to the most festive wreaths, early planning ensures your home will be a Christmas wonderland in 2024.

Get creative for Christmas

And what about those cool things you've always wanted to do, but never quite had the time for? A Christmas family portrait with coordinating outfits, perhaps? Well, starting your Christmas planning now gives you ample time to organise and execute these delightful plans without the last-minute chaos. And we all know that Christmas is more magical when it's filled with personalised touches, right?

Make food prep fun

Finally, let's talk food. We all know that the key to a successful festive feast lies in the planning. By getting to grips with everyone's Christmas wishlists now, you can start sourcing those unique ingredients early, avoid supermarket rush, and even practice that tricky recipe you've always wanted to try. Your Christmas dinner in 2024 could be the stuff of legends! So, let's recap - less stress, more choice, a mindful budget, incredible decorations, personalised gifts, unique festive activities, and a legendary Christmas feast - all thanks to a bit of early planning. Now, doesn't that sound like a Christmas worth waiting for?

Less last-minute, more magnificent

And let's be honest, we've all been on the receiving end of a last-minute gift that screams 'I bought this in a panic at the petrol station'. Don't be that person! Instead, be the one who gifts personalised treasures that show thought, love and a touch of creativity. Think personalised ornaments for the tree, custom-made stockings filled with little treats, or a special edition family board game with everyone's name on it. The possibilities are endless and utterly delightful! So, why wait? Make Christmas 2024 the best one yet by starting your planning now.