Alternative ways to celebrate Christmas this year

With Lockdown 2.0 in full swing, there still stands a little bit of uncertainty over what will happen this year regarding the festive season.

Families and friends up and down the country will be wondering whether they can spend time with their nearest and dearest and how they’ll do their Christmas shopping this year.

However, there’s no doubt that Christmas 2020 will look very different for many in comparison to a traditional family Christmas.

So whether you’re staying at home with family, friends or even somewhere remote away from it all - don’t let things get you down this year. Instead, get festive and creative with 15 of our alternative ways to spend Christmas this year.

1. A walk in the countryside

Whether you live in the city or the countryside - there’s bound to be a scenic countryside walk or a park nearby to where you’re spending your Christmas this year.

So this year Christmas 2020, why not enjoy your day by going for a nice leisurely walk after your Christmas dinner. You can even spread the festivities to your furry friends by getting your beloved pooch involved if you have one!

2. Zoom call with all the family

If your loved ones are miles away and you’re unable to all get-together, then why not arrange a Zoom call with all of you who couldn’t be together this year.

Although it isn’t quite the same as getting together and seeing everyone in the same house it can be the next best thing. Online video calls can still allow your friends and families to watch and join in with the festivities by opening presents, enjoy food or even curating a Christmas themed party or quiz together!

3. Remote Secret Santa with colleagues

With many of us not at the office and working from home, you may be missing your work colleagues, and you wouldn’t be the only ones! If you miss seeing each other and getting excited about the office Christmas party in anticipation of Christmas, then have no fear!

Instead, why not have a Christmas party via the internet and send your Secret Santa parcels by post. That way you don’t miss out on any fun and games, as you can enjoy them remotely!

At least there won’t be many Christmas office casualties this year!

4. Forget the gifts

2020 has been a tough year for us all for many different reasons meaning that not everyone will be feeling festive this year or be able to purchase gifts. So why not consider forgetting the expensive presents this year.

Instead, all pitch in and help your friends and family any way you can, send your Christmas cards, spread a bit of Christmas cheer wherever you can, bring a dish to Christmas dinner or even just be a kind and comforting ear to someone who may need it.

While presents are lovely, some things in life are priceless, and to many, your kindness and patience could mean more than anything in the world.

5. Get crafty and thrifty

If there’s a surplus of time on your hands and you’re not quite sure what to do with it, then why not get crafty this year and make some presents of your own. Who doesn’t love a homemade gift? After all, it can mean all the more when someone’s put effort, thought and kindness into something.

Whether it’s a tote bag, scrunchie or even a homemade card, get busy crafting away!

6. Send a donation

If you can afford to, there are many people, charities and causes that are in need of your donation at Christmas and especially this year in particular.

If you can spare it this Christmas why not donate to a charity of your choice and spread a bit more Christmas cheer to people who need it.

Money Saving Expert has compiled together a great list of exactly how you can help to do more good this Christmas.

7. Make your own bar with a cocktail evening

For many of us visiting a pub on Christmas Eve or even on the day itself is a much-loved tradition. As enjoying a beverage with friends and family can be an excellent way to get out of the house and avoiding the dreaded 4 pm family argument that we all seem to have.

If you can’t go to your local this Christmas to enjoy your favourite tipple then why not make yourself your own bar at home! With a few cocktail glasses, a shaker, makeshift bar and even a few tunes you can create just the same great party atmosphere at home!

8. Switch up Christmas dinner

Are turkey and stuffing getting boring? Then why not take this opportunity to switch things up this year.

There are hundreds of different meals you could be having instead, which will make Christmas just as impressive. From BBQs to fried chicken or even a buffet of your and your families most favourite party foods - feel good about whatever you choose to be your Christmas feast this year.

9. Make your own Christmas decorations

In need of a family activity that you can do with your kids to keep you busy in the run up to Christmas? Why not create your own Christmas decorations, who knows they could even end up being family keepsakes that you’ll put on the tree for years to come!

From baubles and sewn tree decorations to wreaths and stockings - get busy and get crafty!

10. Create a family tradition

We all have family traditions that we’ve carried out for years, whether it’s a Christmas day walk with the family, getting new pj’s on Christmas Eve or even just leaving a carrot and mince pie out for Santa to enjoy - we love a bit of tradition so why not start one of your own.

Whether you want to all enjoy a takeaway on Christmas Eve, do sparklers in the garden or even watch a Christmas movie together with your housemates or family members - it’s never too early or late!

11. Put together a shoebox for the homeless

As winter approaches light fades earlier and earlier, and weather conditions worsen making life difficult for those who live on the streets. If you can - why not put together some essentials or spare toiletries you have laying around and create a shoebox for someone who needs it most.

Toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, a hairbrush, snacks - anything you can manage could make all the difference.

Alternatively, if you have extra food in your cupboards that you’re unlikely to use, then why not consider donating it to your local food bank - helping those who are less fortunate than you this year.

12. Take some time for reflection

2020 has been a challenging year for most, here’s hoping that 2021 is a better year for us all.

In times like these it can be difficult to remember the good things, so why not take some time with your family to think about the positive things and what you’re thankful for.

Pause for some light reflection.

13. Christmas movie marathon

We’ve never met someone who didn’t love a good Christmas film.

So whether you’re more of a Home Alone or Jingle All The Way fan put together a Christmas movie marathon of all your favourite films to watch either on Christmas Eve or Day!

Just don’t fall into the trap of getting into the argument of debating on whether or not Die Hard is a Christmas film…

14. Check for socially distanced events in your area

Lockdown permitting, there may be some socially distanced events being held in your area which you can attend.

Christmas events and activities all your family can enjoy such as bonfires, fireworks or even Christmas markets may be going ahead with rules in place. Check with your local council or online for any events that are likely to be held in the run up to the festive period.

15. Look at Christmas lights

Looking for a way to get some inspiration for your own Christmas lights display this year? Or perhaps you’re feeling a little glum and Scroogish...

To get yourself in the Christmas spirit, why not take a walk or even a drive around your local neighbourhood to look at Christmas displays and lights. Who knows, you could even find some Christmas decoration inspiration for your own!