Once Christmas Day has passed, we often find ourselves in that “in-between” time before the New Year, where days blend, and schedules ease up. Instead of letting the days drift away, this is the perfect time to savour the post-Christmas spirit and make the most of this relaxing season. Here are 21 activities to fill the festive days after Christmas, each designed to bring cheer, relaxation, and joy before we dive into the New Year.
1. Explore Boxing Day Sales (In-Person or Online)
Boxing Day sales are legendary in the UK, and they bring a flurry of excitement for bargain hunters eager to make the most of post-Christmas discounts. Venturing out to the shops is a chance to enjoy the hustle and bustle, with discounts on items from electronics to fashion. In-store sales can be thrilling, and it’s a perfect way to grab those items that weren’t under the tree but still have your name on them.
Online shopping is equally tempting, often extending well past Boxing Day, allowing you to shop from the comfort of home. Retailers like John Lewis and Marks & Spencer offer fabulous Boxing Day deals, meaning you don’t have to brave the crowds. Online or in-store, Boxing Day is a post-holiday treat in itself!
2. Catch a Flick at the Cinema
Winter is a great time to indulge in the cinematic experience, and post-Christmas movie releases provide a fantastic selection for every taste. Whether it’s a family-friendly blockbuster or an award-season drama, heading to the cinema is an opportunity to get cosy and immerse yourself in another world. The festive crowds have thinned, making it the perfect time for a relaxed day out at the movies.
For listings, check out Odeon or Vue, or explore your local independent cinema for something a bit different. Plus, cinemas often run special screenings of classic holiday movies, so you can prolong the festive feeling for a little longer if you wish!
3. Host a Relaxed Post-Christmas Gathering
For those who enjoy the social side of the holidays, a laid-back gathering can be a wonderful way to wind down. Instead of a formal party, host an evening of board games, movie marathons, or simply catching up with friends. Serve up some mulled wine, snacks, and leftover treats, keeping it casual to create a cosy atmosphere.
This intimate get-together can even include family members who were too busy over the holiday. Bringing people together with no formalities lets everyone enjoy each other’s company in a relaxed setting. After the whirlwind of Christmas, this is an ideal way to reflect on the season and simply enjoy each other’s company.
4. Plan Your Financial Goals for the New Year
With the holiday spending behind you, this time of year is perfect for a financial reset. Take a look at your current budget, and set realistic financial goals for the coming year. Whether it’s saving for a dream holiday, paying down debt, or building up an emergency fund, establishing these goals before January sets the tone for financial success in the new year.
Digital tools make budgeting and tracking your finances easier than ever. Apps like Monzo and YNAB provide easy ways to organise expenses and set reminders. Thinking ahead can bring peace of mind and clarity, helping you enter the new year feeling in control and confident.
5. Play with Your New Christmas Gifts
This might seem simple, but how often do we set aside time to enjoy new gifts? Whether it’s trying out a new tech gadget, diving into a novel, or setting up kitchen gadgets, spending time with your presents helps you truly appreciate them. It’s also a great way to prolong that holiday excitement, turning gifts into memories.
Taking the time to explore new items can also reveal unexpected enjoyment. For example, a new book might introduce you to a favourite author, or a hobby kit might inspire a new passion. Using and appreciating your gifts fully is a reminder of the love and thoughtfulness behind them.
6. Set Your New Year’s Resolutions
The days after Christmas provide a wonderful chance to reflect on personal goals and consider what you’d like to achieve in the upcoming year. Think about areas in your life that you’d like to nurture – from health and wellness to personal growth and hobbies. Resolutions don’t have to be overwhelming; sometimes, a few small goals are more rewarding and achievable than drastic changes.
When setting resolutions, be sure to write them down. This simple act helps commit them to memory and makes them more tangible. Small changes, like daily journaling or taking a mindful walk, can bring as much fulfilment as major goals. Start small, be realistic, and enjoy the journey.
7. Try a Paint and Sip Session
For a creative post-Christmas experience, try out a paint and sip session – a perfect blend of relaxation, creativity, and a little bit of wine! Hosted by venues across the UK, a paint and sip event provides all the materials you need to craft a masterpiece. Not only is it an enjoyable activity, but you also leave with a piece of art you can proudly display.
Prime Pass offers Sip and Paint Sessions designed to help participants unwind and connect with others. Bring a friend, family member, or even attend solo to meet like-minded people. It’s an ideal way to unwind, celebrate, and channel your inner artist during this reflective season. Prime Pass offers different sessions like Date Nights Event in Various Locations like London, Manchester, Liverpool, and Bristol.
8. Explore Your Local Area
Rediscovering your own city or town is an adventure often overlooked in favour of faraway destinations. Take this downtime to play tourist in your area. Look up local landmarks, visit a nearby museum, or take a historical walking tour. You may be surprised by what you discover.
Check out Visit Britain for local guides and hidden gems, helping you to see your surroundings with fresh eyes. A local adventure not only deepens your appreciation for where you live but also reminds you that there are always new things to learn and places to explore.
9. Declutter Your Space
The post-Christmas period is ideal for giving your home a quick refresh. After the influx of holiday gifts, taking time to declutter allows you to enjoy a calmer, more organised space. Start small, perhaps with a single drawer, and gradually work through each room. A tidy environment often brings mental clarity, so it’s a good way to begin the new year.
If you have items in good condition that you no longer need, consider donating to local charities like British Heart Foundation or offering items on Freecycle. Decluttering not only creates physical space but also helps you let go of unneeded items, making room for new experiences and memories.
10. Organise Your Digital Life
In today’s world, digital clutter can be just as overwhelming as physical clutter. Take some time to go through your phone, computer, and cloud storage, deleting old files, unnecessary apps, and duplicate photos. Sorting through your digital files now can help you stay organised in the months ahead.
Storing photos and files on secure platforms like Google Photos or iCloud also keeps your memories safe and easily accessible. A little digital detox can bring peace of mind, ensuring that you start the year feeling organised and prepared.
11. Try New Recipes with Leftover Ingredients
After the Christmas feasting, the fridge is often packed with leftovers and festive ingredients waiting to be used. Embrace your inner chef and experiment with new recipes using these remnants. From transforming turkey into hearty sandwiches to turning cranberries into delightful sauces or desserts, the possibilities are endless. Not only does it help minimise food waste, but it also gives you a chance to enjoy unique dishes with a festive twist.
For some post-Christmas recipe ideas, check out BBC Good Food or Jamie Oliver, both of which offer creative recipes for using holiday leftovers. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at a recipe you’ve never made before or even a full, multi-course meal. Cooking with leftovers can feel like a satisfying mini-adventure, blending creativity and resourcefulness to bring fresh life to holiday ingredients.
12. Take a Day Trip Somewhere New
A day trip can provide a refreshing change of pace and perspective after the intensity of the holiday season. Whether it’s a quaint village, a coastal town, or a scenic national park, a quick journey lets you reset, breathe in fresh air, and get some light exercise. Even a short train ride out of town can offer a new environment and experiences, perfect for recharging.
Websites like National Trust offer information on nature spots and historical sites across the UK, while Visit England is great for ideas on charming day-trip destinations. Bringing a friend or family member along can make the experience even more enjoyable, providing a relaxing way to explore together while enjoying the beautiful winter scenery.
13. Indulge in Some Self-Care and Pampering
After the whirlwind of Christmas, taking time for self-care can help you relax and recharge. A post-Christmas pamper session doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune at the spa; even simple activities like a long bath, a skincare routine, or quiet meditation can work wonders. The aim is to unwind and take a breather from the holiday hustle.
For those interested in extra pampering, Neal’s Yard Remedies and Lush offers luxurious, natural self-care products perfect for unwinding at home. Creating your own DIY spa day at home is a wonderful, budget-friendly way to relax. Add soft music, a few candles, and a cup of herbal tea, and you’ll have a rejuvenating experience to round off the holiday season.
14. Start a New Book (or Finish One You Started)
Starting or finishing a book after the holiday rush can feel like a true indulgence. With the extra downtime, there’s no better moment to dive into a novel, biography, or self-help book you’ve been eyeing. The act of reading can help reset your mind, offering both relaxation and inspiration as you prepare for the new year.
If you’re looking for a good read, check out Waterstones for some of the bestsellers or staff recommendations, or visit your local library to borrow something new. Whether it’s a light romance, a thrilling mystery, or an informative non-fiction title, letting yourself get lost in a good book is the perfect way to unwind and recharge post-Christmas.
15. Declutter Your Closet
The quiet days after Christmas are ideal for refreshing your wardrobe. Take the time to go through your closet, identifying items you no longer wear, and perhaps even rediscovering pieces you’d forgotten about. Decluttering helps free up space, making it easier to appreciate the clothes you love and creating room for new additions.
Once you’ve sorted through, consider donating gently used items to a local charity shop, such as Oxfam or British Red Cross, which accept donations across the UK. Streamlining your wardrobe can feel incredibly freeing, and it’s a positive way to start the year with a refreshed personal style and a clearer, more organised space.
16. Begin a New Hobby or Pick Up an Old One
The period after Christmas is a perfect opportunity to explore new interests. Perhaps you’ve been gifted something hobby-related, or you’re simply inspired to try something new. Whether it’s learning to play an instrument, crafting, or Doing Painting, hobbies provide a creative outlet and a fulfilling way to spend free time.
To make the most of your new interest in painting, consider joining a painting event, such as those offered by Prime Pass. These events not only provide all the necessary materials but also guide you through the painting process in a fun and supportive environment. Whether you’re attending with friends, family, or even solo, these sessions allow you to explore your creativity, learn new techniques, and produce a piece of art that you can be proud of. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to meet like-minded individuals and enjoy a relaxing afternoon filled with laughter and inspiration. So, gather your brushes and embrace the joy of painting; it’s the perfect hobby to embrace as you transition into the New Year!
17. Volunteer for a Local Charity
While the festive season often highlights the importance of giving, the weeks following Christmas are an equally valuable time to volunteer. Many organisations appreciate extra hands in the post-holiday season, whether it’s helping at food banks, animal shelters, or local community centres. Volunteering provides a meaningful way to connect with others and give back to your community, bringing purpose and joy.
Websites like Do-it.org and Volunteering Matters help connect people with volunteer opportunities across the UK. Whether you dedicate a few hours or an entire day, offering your time and skills can be incredibly rewarding. Volunteering not only benefits the community but also offers a sense of fulfilment, reminding us of the true spirit of the season.
18. Reflect and Journal on the Past Year
Journaling about the year that’s passed is a therapeutic way to close one chapter and begin another. Reflecting on personal growth, achievements, and memorable moments allows us to appreciate the journey and see areas where we’d like to improve. Taking even just a few minutes to write down thoughts can bring clarity and set a positive tone for the upcoming year.
For guidance, websites like The Blurt Foundation offer resources on mindful journaling, and many bookshops stock beautiful journals specifically designed for reflection and goal-setting. This simple practice of journaling can become a treasured yearly tradition, helping you stay mindful, grounded, and prepared for the new year ahead.
19. Enjoy a Winter Walk in the Countryside
There’s nothing quite like a brisk winter walk to lift your spirits and enjoy the beauty of nature. Post-Christmas is a fantastic time to bundle up and explore local parks, trails, or countryside areas. The crisp winter air and peaceful surroundings make for a refreshing escape, perfect for unwinding and reflecting on the season.
For scenic walks and trails, consider checking out the National Trust or Walkhighlands if you’re exploring Scottish landscapes. Bring a thermos of hot chocolate, and perhaps a friend or family member, to make the most of this simple yet delightful post-Christmas activity.
20. Plan Your Next Holiday or Weekend Getaway
The post-Christmas period is a perfect time to start dreaming about future travel. Take this time to research destinations, browse flights, and create an itinerary for your next adventure. Whether it’s a summer holiday abroad or a weekend staycation, having a trip on the horizon adds excitement to the upcoming months.
Websites like Expedia or Airbnb can help you find budget-friendly options and unique places to stay. Researching a holiday and daydreaming about your next trip helps beat the winter blues and gives you something to look forward to in the new year.
21. Have a Movie Marathon at Home
A movie marathon is an ideal way to relax after the Christmas rush, allowing you to unwind and escape into some favourite films. Settle in with a warm blanket, some popcorn, and maybe even a cup of mulled wine as you enjoy a series of classics, comedies, or holiday favourites. It’s a simple, cosy way to spend a day at home without the pressure of any holiday to-do lists.
For movie recommendations and streaming options, check out Netflix, Disney+, or Amazon Prime for a vast selection of films to suit any mood. With endless options available, a movie day is a chance to sit back, relax, and let the entertainment unfold as you savour the last days of the holiday season.
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If you want to have a great time with Your Friends, a Team Building session with Prime Pass is the way to go. Paint along with a helpful instructor with a glass of Prosecco in hand and unleash that artistic flair you’ve always possessed.
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