Magic in the Madness
The Perfect Christmas… and other Fairy Stories.
Let’s Take This Outside.
We are firmly in an era of tightened pursestrings, with the newer generations teaching their parents a thing or two about sustainability and conscious consumption.
I think it is a good thing; for the planet, for our bank balances, and for our happiness in the long term.
So this one is about festive fun that’s big on cheer… but on the less lavish side – let’s get into it:
Winter Equinox Celebration
Embrace the shortest day of the year by attending a local Pagan Equinox event or create your own ritual.
I’m starting here, as I am wildly excited to be doing exactly this on Thursday.
Most of the Christmas traditions as we celebrate them are Pagan anyway, so…
Light candles, reflect on the past year, and set intentions for the new one.
Handwrite your intentions and keep them in a special place.
Write the things you have had enough of, want to get rid of, want to move on from – set fire to them, and watch them physically and metaphorically go up in smoke.
It’s a spiritually enriching experience that connects you with ancient traditions and the natural rhythm of the earth.
If you haven’t done this before, it’s surprisingly emotional and hits in a way that New Year’s resolutions don’t seem to.
Panto on a Budget
Big theatre pantomimes with big-name stars are great… but can be pricey.
If, like many – you’re tightening the Christmas budget this year, check out local theatre groups, am-drams or community performances with more affordable ticketing.
They offer a more intimate experience and support local talent – also perfect for a solo outing or a date night with a difference.
You’ll also meet local people and feel more connected to your community.
(Also if it’s terrible – that’s fun all by itself)
Ice Skating
Towns and cities often set up a temporary outdoor ice rink for that classic winter experience.
They are usually around the same price as the big, permanent ones, but there is something about doing it outdoors that feels quite special.
I often joke that all the things I am good at are not overly useful after the apocalypse.
Whilst Amy can navigate, build shelters, find fresh drinking water etc… I’m quite good at ice skating, Latin American dancing and making tutus.
We’re all different.
But whether you’re gliding gracefully or clinging to the edge, ice skating is guaranteed, wholesome fun.
It’s a great way to enjoy the crisp winter air and get some exercise in too.
Home Nightclub
OK, this one isn’t technically outside – but it’s in place of going outside, so I’m including it here.
Real Nightclubs (which I like)
?Pros:
- Great music
- Great lights
- Dance Floor
? Cons:
- Overpriced
- Obscenely young people
- Can’t get to the bar
- Queues to get in
- It’s freezing outside
- No Ubers to get home
- Drunk people (especially at Christmas)
- Drink spiking
- Grim toilets
Who needs overpriced clubs when you can have a blast in your own house?
Get some affordable disco lights online,
create a playlist of personal bangers, whack up the volume, and invite your neighbours over for a kitchen/lounge/dining room disco.
It’s a fantastic way to have a dance party without the hassle of going out.
Outdoor Christmas Market Visit:
If there’s a Christmas market in your town or city, take a wander through it.
You don’t have to buy anything – just enjoy the festive atmosphere.
If you do have any last-minute gifts to buy – you’ll find far more interesting, less generic things than you would otherwise.
Especially food-based gifts.
Which are always top of my list.
It’s a lovely way to spend an evening, soaking up the seasonal spirit.
Festive City Walk:
Cities are beautifully lit up during the festive season.
Why not take an evening walk to see the Christmas lights and window displays?
Make it a fun outing with a flask of hot chocolate flask (or mulled wine) in hand and some homemade cake – to officially win Christmas.,
You can stroll along, enjoying the festive decorations and music (if it’s anything like our city) and soak up the festive ambiance.
Winter Walks with a Twist
Transform a regular walk into a festive scavenger hunt.
This can be a delightful solo adventure or a romantic stroll, but probably best of all for children.
Make a list before you start, so they can spot seasonal treasures like a holly bush or a chimney smoke.
You can amuse yourself by finding what we lovingly like to call
the ‘Jeremy Kyle House’.
i.e. the house with the most unashamedly over-the-top, garish decorations.
Fun.
You’ve got to admire it.
Zero fecks given.
Twilight Nature Walks:
By contrast – an evening walk, lit by a lantern or torch, offers a new perspective on familiar paths.
It’s a beautiful, serene way to enjoy the season’s beauty,
whether you’re reflecting on your own or sharing quiet moments with a loved one.
Cosy Bonfire Evening
If you have outdoor space, a small bonfire can be a magical way to spend an evening.
It’s perfect for some solitary relaxation or a cosy night with the family, complete with hot chocolate and marshmallow toasting.
Make a Bird Feeder:
Creating bird feeders is a peaceful activity you can enjoy on your own or with a partner.
It’s a rewarding way to give nature a helping hand, and brings a little wildlife magic to your garden or balcony.
Youtube is full of tutorials.
Photographic Nature Hunt:
For those who enjoy photography, a nature hunt can be a wonderful way to capture the beauty of the season.
It’s a creative and contemplative activity that you can enjoy alone or with a partner/creative director.
I think this year, above the ones before – is going to be about the beauty of simplicity and the warmth of smaller pleasures.
Festive fun doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate.
It’s about enjoying the moment, whether you’re sharing it with someone or savouring it on your own.
Whether it’s a solo excursion, a romantic outing, or a gathering with friends, make it special with your spin on it.
Remember, the best festive moments are those spent in good company (or enjoying a bit of peace and quiet in your own company),
…surrounded by the magic of the season.
Let’s step outside and embrace the joy, laughter, and wonder that this time of year brings, in all its varied forms.
Action:
1. Make a list:
(with the other relevant people too), of the bigger things you might want to do over the next few weeks.
2. Plot them in the calendar,
so you’ve got lots to look forward to, that minimises screen time, is budget-friendly, and stops you from feeling cooped up (and going stir-crazy).
3. Make sure you do them!
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